Apply Smartly: How to stand out without spamming the internet
Job hunting feels like a full-time job - only the boss is moody, hours are long, and pay is terrible. (Yes, that boss is you.) Quality over quantity 27 copy-paste applications before lunch = invisible. Tailor your CV and cover note, even slightly. Recruiters can sniff a generic application from a mile off, like a truffle pig on espresso - it doesn’t end well for you. Read the job description If the role asks for a Site Manager with fit-out experience and your CV screams “civil engineering,” you’re playing job bingo - and losing. Connect the dots between your experience and what they actually need. Cover Notes: small but mighty Avoid copy-paste templates: “Having delivered several commercial refurb projects across the South East, this role with [Company] really caught my eye - particularly your focus on sustainability.” | | Beat the Bots (ATS reality check) Many CVs never reach human eyes. Include keywords naturally: titles, software, project types. You’re speaking robot, not tweeting spam. Tap your network Some of the best jobs never appear online. Contact trusted colleagues, old bosses, and recruiters. People like helping those they remember positively. Follow Up - The right way Polite follow-up after a week or two: “Hi [Name], just checking whether you’ve had a chance to review my application for [Role]. Still very interested and happy to provide any extra info.” Short, professional, non - desperate. Think beyond job boards Follow companies you admire. Engage with posts. Build visibility so that when the right role appears, your name is top of mind. |