Indeed offers employers up to 3 free job posts per month, visible in general search results (Indeed Pricing). Handshake provides unlimited free job posts plus 10 messages per month on its basic plan, targeted to university students (Handshake Employer Plans). These free tiers affect job seeker access: Indeed suits broad exposure with limits, while Handshake supports volume for campus hiring.
Free Job Posting Limits Compared
| Feature | Indeed | Handshake |
|---|---|---|
| Job posts per month | Up to 3 | Unlimited (How to Post a Job) |
| Search visibility | General search results | Student networks at partnered schools |
| Messaging/outreach | Basic via applications | 10 messages per month |
Indeed's cap works for small tests with wide reach. Handshake allows unlimited posts but limits outreach on the basic plan.
Job Seeker Access on Free Listings
Free postings on Indeed appear in general searches. Job seekers use resume upload, quick apply, and application tracking via the mobile app (Indeed App Guide; Job Search Guide).
Handshake free postings target verified students at partnered universities. Job seekers access campus-specific listings after university login, with employer messaging limited to 10 per month.
Best Fit for Free Use
- Handshake: Unlimited posts to student networks for campus or entry-level recruiting.
- Indeed: Up to 3 posts monthly for general visibility and diverse applicants.
How to Get Started with Free Features
Employers on Indeed:
- Create account at Indeed for Employers.
- Post up to 3 eligible jobs monthly.
- Track applications in dashboard.
Employers on Handshake:
- Set up profile via employer portal.
- Post unlimited jobs to schools.
- Send up to 10 messages monthly.
Job Seekers:
- Indeed: Search, upload resume, apply, track.
- Handshake: Use university login for targeted posts.