About Apply Start
Apply start is the first step a jobseeker takes to apply for a job on Indeed. It happens when they click the Apply now button on a job post. This shows a strong interest in the job, even if the person does not complete the full application.
You can find apply start metrics in Indeed’s analytics.
Benefits
Measure performance
- Accurate and reliable metrics
- One step closer from click to hire
- Captures high-intent jobseekers
Track more accurately
- Not affected by third-party cookie blocking
- Works better than traditional conversion tracking
Finding your apply start metrics
Visit the Jobs and campaigns tab of your Analytics page for:
- Apply start percentage
- The total number of applications started
- Cost per application started
- Apply start engagement summary
- Apply start rate for your highest- and lowest-ranked jobs
Apply starts vs applications
You may find that the number of applications for a job exceeds the number of started applications. There might be two reasons for this discrepancy:
- The jobseeker applied without clicking Apply now, for example by using a direct link to the application.
- The jobseeker began the application process a day or more before completing it. To prevent this discrepancy, look at the data for a longer period.
Troubleshooting
Low click-to-apply start ratio
Issue: Jobseekers click but don't start applying.
Solution: Improve job descriptions to drive interest.
- The job description may lack key details.
- The job title doesn't match the job description.
Low click-to-apply start ratio
Issue: Jobseekers start but don't complete applications.
Solution: Shorten and simplify the application process.
- The application process may be too long or complex.
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