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Bulk Importing Candidates from LinkedIn Search Results or Projects into PyjamaHR

Updated over 3 weeks ago

Executive Summary

Bulk importing candidates from LinkedIn search results or projects is a highly requested feature for recruiters using PyjamaHR. This workflow enables you to efficiently source passive candidates from LinkedIn and add them directly to your PyjamaHR pipeline using the Chrome Extension. This article covers exactly how to use the extension for importing, current limitations, best practices, troubleshooting, and answers to the most common questions—so you can maximize your sourcing productivity and avoid common pitfalls.

Detailed Overview

What Is Bulk Import from LinkedIn?

Bulk importing from LinkedIn allows you to add multiple candidate profiles from LinkedIn search results or projects directly into your PyjamaHR ATS, streamlining the process of building your talent pipeline. Instead of manually adding candidates one by one, bulk import (when available) lets you select several profiles and import them in a single action.

Why Use It?
- Save time: Import dozens or hundreds of candidates in minutes.
- Source passive talent: Add candidates who haven’t applied directly.
- Centralize your pipeline: Keep all candidate data in PyjamaHR for tracking and engagement.

Integration with PyjamaHR:
- Imported candidates appear in your selected job pipeline or project.
- Candidate data (name, title, LinkedIn URL, and sometimes skills) is parsed into PyjamaHR.
- Works alongside direct job board integrations and manual candidate entry.

Business Impact:
- Reduces manual data entry.
- Enables proactive sourcing.
- Improves recruiter productivity and candidate tracking.

Step-by-Step Guide: Importing Candidates from LinkedIn

Prerequisites

  • PyjamaHR account (Premium plan required for some features; see below for AppSumo limitations)

  • PyjamaHR Chrome Extension installed and updated to the latest version

  • Google Chrome browser

  • LinkedIn account (standard or Recruiter, depending on your workflow)

1. Install and Set Up the Chrome Extension

  1. Go to the PyjamaHR Chrome Extension page and install the extension.

  2. Log in to your PyjamaHR account in a separate browser tab.

  3. Pin the extension for easy access (click the puzzle icon in Chrome, then the pin next to PyjamaHR).

Screenshot: Chrome Extension install and pinning process

2. Navigate to LinkedIn Search Results or Project

  1. Open LinkedIn and perform a candidate search (e.g., by job title, location, skills).

  2. Alternatively, open a LinkedIn Project (if using LinkedIn Recruiter).

Screenshot: LinkedIn search results page with candidate list

3. Activate the PyjamaHR Extension

  1. Click the PyjamaHR Chrome Extension icon.

  2. Log in if prompted.

  3. The extension will detect the LinkedIn page and display import options.

Screenshot: Extension overlay on LinkedIn search results

4. Select Candidates for Import

Current State (as per customer conversations):
- Manual Import: You can import candidates one at a time by clicking the “Add to PyjamaHR” button on each profile.
- Bulk Import: The bulk import feature is under development or in limited rollout. If available, you will see checkboxes next to each candidate or a “Select All” option.

If Bulk Import Is Available:
1. Select multiple candidates using checkboxes or “Select All.”
2. Click the “Import Selected” button.

If Only Manual Import Is Available:
1. Click into each candidate profile.
2. Click the “Add to PyjamaHR” button in the extension overlay.

Screenshot: Extension with candidate selection options

5. Assign Candidates to a Job or Project in PyjamaHR

  1. After clicking “Add” or “Import,” choose the relevant job or project from the dropdown in the extension.

  2. Confirm the import.

Screenshot: Job/project selection dropdown in the extension

6. Review Imported Candidates in PyjamaHR

  1. Go to your PyjamaHR dashboard.

  2. Open the relevant job or project.

  3. Verify that the imported candidates appear in the pipeline.

Screenshot: PyjamaHR candidate pipeline with newly imported candidates

Advanced Usage & Best Practices

Power User Tips

  • Use LinkedIn filters to narrow your search before importing.

  • Import regularly to keep your pipeline fresh.

  • Tag candidates in PyjamaHR after import for easier tracking.

  • Combine with job board integrations: Use bulk import for passive candidates and job board integrations for applicants.

Optimization Strategies

  • Batch imports: When bulk import is available, import in batches to avoid hitting LinkedIn or PyjamaHR rate limits.

  • Data hygiene: Review imported profiles for completeness and update missing fields.

  • Pipeline assignment: Always assign candidates to the correct job/project during import to avoid manual sorting later.

Do’s and Don’ts

Do:
- Check for duplicate candidates before importing.
- Use the latest version of the Chrome Extension.
- Reach out to support if you encounter persistent issues.

Don’t:
- Attempt to import hundreds of candidates at once if the feature is not fully rolled out—this may cause errors.
- Forget to assign candidates to a job/project during import.

Troubleshooting & Common Issues

Known Issues (from customer conversations)

  1. Bulk Import Not Available
    - Message: “Manually importing 300 candidates one at a time would be way too tedious. But it says that I can bulk import from LinkedIn by selecting multiple candidates. How would you select multiple candidates here? I don't see a way to do that.”
    - Solution: Bulk import is in development or limited rollout. Use manual import for now; check for extension updates regularly.

  2. Imported Candidates Not Appearing in PyjamaHR
    - Message: “On LinkedIn it shows successfully added the candidate but here on ATS I can't see the profile.”
    - Solution: Refresh your PyjamaHR dashboard. If still missing, contact support with screenshots.

  3. Extension Loading/Glitching
    - Message: “It keeps loading while selecting the job.”
    - Solution: Restart Chrome, ensure extension is updated, and try again. If unresolved, report to support.

  4. Feature Not Available for AppSumo Users
    - Message: “Unfortunately, this feature is currently not available for AppSumo customers.”
    - Solution: Some features are in staged rollout and may not be available for all plans. Contact support for updates or upgrade options.

  5. Skills or Data Not Matching
    - Message: “Skills mentioned marked in job listing and skills flagged on LinkedIn are different.”
    - Solution: Data parsing depends on LinkedIn’s structure. Review and edit candidate profiles after import.

What If Scenarios

  • What if I already posted a job on LinkedIn and want to import applicants?

  • Use the Chrome Extension to import applicants from the job’s applicant list or from search results.

  • What if I need to import from LinkedIn Recruiter Projects?

  • Open the project, use the extension, and follow the same steps as above.

  • What if the extension doesn’t detect the LinkedIn page?

  • Refresh the page, ensure you’re logged in to both LinkedIn and PyjamaHR, and try again.

  • What if I hit a rate limit or see an error?

  • Wait a few minutes and retry. LinkedIn may temporarily restrict activity if too many actions are performed quickly.

Comprehensive FAQ

1. Can I bulk import candidates from LinkedIn search results?
Bulk import is being rolled out and may not be available to all users yet. If you don’t see the option, use manual import for now.

2. Is bulk import available for AppSumo customers?
Currently, some advanced features (including bulk import) are in staged rollout and may not be available for AppSumo users.

3. How do I import candidates from a LinkedIn Project?
Open the project, activate the extension, and import candidates as you would from search results.

4. What data is imported from LinkedIn?
Typically, name, job title, LinkedIn URL, and sometimes skills. Always review and update candidate profiles after import.

5. Why aren’t my imported candidates showing up in PyjamaHR?
Refresh your dashboard. If still missing, contact support with details and screenshots.

6. Can I assign candidates to a specific job during import?
Yes, select the job or project in the extension before confirming the import.

7. What if I have already posted a job on LinkedIn directly?
You can still import candidates using the Chrome Extension, but for future jobs, post via PyjamaHR for automatic tracking.

8. How do I avoid duplicate candidates?
PyjamaHR attempts to detect duplicates, but always review your pipeline after import.

9. Can I import candidates who haven’t applied to my job?
Yes, you can import any public LinkedIn profile using the extension.

10. What should I do if the extension isn’t working?
Check for updates, restart Chrome, and contact support if the issue persists.

11. How do I know if I have the latest version of the extension?
Visit the Chrome Web Store and check for updates.

12. What if LinkedIn changes their UI and the extension stops working?
Report the issue to PyjamaHR support; updates are released regularly to maintain compatibility.

Related Features & Next Steps

  • Job Board Integrations: Automatically import applicants from job boards posted via PyjamaHR.

  • Manual Candidate Entry: For candidates sourced outside LinkedIn.

  • Candidate Tagging & Segmentation: Organize your pipeline post-import.

  • Automated Email Workflows: Engage imported candidates directly from PyjamaHR.

Recommended Next Steps:
- Install the PyjamaHR Chrome Extension
- Read: Using the PyjamaHR Chrome Extension
- Contact Support if you encounter persistent issues or need feature access

Still have questions?
If your scenario isn’t covered here, reach out to PyjamaHR Support with screenshots and a description of your workflow for personalized assistance.

Article last updated: June 2024
​ Based on real customer feedback and the latest product updates. If you notice any discrepancies or have suggestions, please let us know!

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