About Apply Start

Apply start is the first step a job seeker 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 finish 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 job seekers

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 apply starts
Cost per apply start
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 apply starts. There might be two reasons for this discrepancy:

The job seeker applied without clicking Apply now, for example, by using a direct link to the application.
The job seeker 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 apply start-to-apply ratio

Issue: Job seekers 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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