Why you aren’t getting responses from job applications - and how to change this

The frustration of no response when you are job hunting is a classic and can leave you demotivated. Are you sending out a large number of job applications with absolutely no luck, feeling like even a no would be better? Depending on the size of the company, employers receive hundreds, sometimes thousands of applications for the positions they have listed. Here’s how to stand out in the process to avoid radio silence from potential employers.  

1. Keywords are key

With online applications, recruiters will sift through the vast amount of resumes by using keyword searches in order to filter them down to a select few, the ones which have greater relevance to the job they have advertised. When there is a high number of applicants it is likely some words will appear frequently, so, employers will further narrow the selection by searching for words they consider key but not included in their job description.

2. So… do your research!

It is vital to research into and familiarise yourself with the organisation you are applying for. Scour their website for any and all information, view their social media channels and identify key individuals within the business perhaps even reading their personal biographies to see what it means and takes to work for that company. This will ensure your application is relevant and stands out.

3. Tailor your application

Employers are perceptive and will easily identify a generic resume and cover letter. It must be specific to the unique job or organisation you are applying too. Therefore research is key and identifying keywords (as mentioned above) is a sure-fire way to improve your chances of getting noticed. List the relevant skills which the business themselves have identified as useful, and then provide personal experiences as justification to demonstrate that you possess these necessary qualities.

4. Write a cover letter

To accompany your CV it’s a good idea to write a cover letter which highlights the relevant skills and qualities you possess, the experience you have and why you want (& importantly) are the right fit for the job. Make this document powerful, specific and persuasive and it should help to further your chances of a response or even achieving the job itself.

For expert advice from the recruitment specialists on any aspect of your career, email consultants@1strecruit.co.uk or call 01534 875444.