Does a recent job application rejection feel like the end of the world? Fear not, we provide 3 key ways in which you can boost your CV to maximise your chances the second time around (or 3rd, 4th and 5th!)
In this blog, no matter what your job application rejection rate is… we will focus on making changes to what you already have, rather than suggesting new methods that aren’t always practical or time effective.
What we mean by this is, we are not suggesting gaining more work experience. We’re not telling you to undertake an internship (as well as a full-time job) or gain new skills. Because we believe what you have is enough and it’s how you showcase your professional self which is key.
How to avoid a job application rejection
Make your job intentions completely clear
To secure an interview and ensure your CV passes the first screening process, you have to make it very clear what your end goal is. For example, if you are applying for a Digital Marketing role, show to the hiring manager you know all there is to know, surrounding the subject area, the industry, insights and trends. This can be achieved through a captivating opening bio and also what hobbies and interests you have.
Example:
Interests: In my spare time I enjoy maintaining my photography blog, showcasing images I have captured and writing posts to my growing audience.
Why this works:
You are demonstrating your photography skills, blogging interest and knowledge into the fundamentals of building and growing an online audience. All key components in digital marketing.
A weak response could simply be stating your passion is marketing. It’s very cliché and doesn’t tell the recruiter much about why.
Revisit your employment history
Your work experience is one of the most valued sections within your CV. It is essential that everything you put here describes perfectly your previous roles, responsibilities and skills required to undertake past and current roles.
Even if your past job(s) are not directly related to the role you are applying for, try to include transferable skills as a means to bridge the gap between career choices.
Example snippet of a high quality work experience section:
Digital Marketing Assistant – Company – 2017-present
- Assisted in the launch of a seasonal social media campaign. By creating visual content to increase engagement. Averaging at 1000 impressions per post.
Why it’s good
The extract, states the responsibility, how it was achieved and the results gained. Employers love to see statistics as it provides evidence that they can transfer to the new potential role.
Safeguard your CV against the recruitment machine
A robot could be reading your CV and you may not even realise. Many employers (particularly larger organisations) utilise an applicant tracking system to help manage their heavy workload.
According to a recent study, 75% of CVs never actually get read by a human. With this statistically high percentage, it is vital you write your CV to satisfy screening technology.
Therefore when they receive a high influx of CVs and job applications they can use recruitment technology to screen candidates. Way before human eyes ever even have to look. This is usually based on CV keyword searching, to determine the applicants that best fit the job description.
