LinkedIn Applicant Counter
A privacy-first Chrome extension that automatically reveals the real number of applicants on LinkedIn job postings.
What is LinkedIn Applicant Counter?
A privacy-first Chrome extension that reveals the true applicant count on LinkedIn job postings by parsing data already available to your browser - no servers, no tracking.
The Problem
LinkedIn often abstracts applicant counts (e.g., "10+ applicants"), making it hard to gauge true competition. Manually digging through DevTools works, but it's tedious and inconsistent across job templates.
The Solution
The extension automates the known manual method: it observes page data and safe, allowed globals to extract applicant counts when available, then renders a small banner at the top of the job view - no servers, no tracking.
Core User Features
LinkedIn Applicant Counter provides a seamless way to discover the true number of applicants on LinkedIn job postings.
- Automatic detection on linkedin.com/jobs/view/* pages
- Accessible UI with aria-live status and clear typography
- SPA navigation handling; avoids duplicate banners
- Privacy-first: no external servers; minimal local storage
Technical Architecture
LinkedIn Applicant Counter combines cutting-edge web technologies with sophisticated data extraction techniques.
- Manifest v3 content script runs at document_start and observes SPA route changes
- Multiple bounded strategies: DOM scripts, safe globals, and best-effort fetch when CSRF is available
- Toolbar badge shows last detected count; popup surfaces recent activity