Job hunting: three practical tips to help your application stand out
Looking for a new role can feel overwhelming, especially when a LinkedIn advert shows hundreds of applicants. But the number beside the job title does not tell the whole story, and a few small choices can help you make a more considered application.
Jack Hooper, Director at Profectus Recruitment, shares three tips for candidates navigating the job market.
- Don’t be put off by the applicant count
A job advert showing 100, 250 or even 500 applicants can look intimidating. But that figure does not mean there are hundreds of people who are right for the role.
Some applicants may not have checked the essential requirements, location or salary. If the opportunity genuinely matches your experience, don’t rule yourself out just because the number looks high.
Take a moment to check that the role is a good fit, then submit a focused application that clearly shows why your background is relevant. Applying for fewer suitable roles is often more worthwhile than sending off applications indiscriminately.
Read Jack’s post about applicant numbers
- Use a cover letter to add something new
A clear, well-structured CV should make your experience easy to understand. A cover letter can add value by explaining why you are interested in the role, what appeals to you about the business and why the move makes sense for you.
It should complement your CV rather than repeat it. A few relevant paragraphs may be more effective than several extra pages of information.
If you use AI to help with a first draft, review it carefully and make sure the final version sounds like you. Your reasons for wanting the job and the detail behind your experience are personal. A generic letter can make it harder for an employer to understand what makes you a strong match.
Read Jack’s post about cover letters
- Think about when you submit your application
If you are preparing an application over the weekend, Jack suggests considering whether to send it early on Monday morning. Recruiters and in-house talent teams may be catching up with applications and planning their priorities for the week, so your application could be easier to spot.
This is a practical suggestion rather than a proven formula. Every employer and recruitment system works differently, so timing cannot guarantee that your application will be seen sooner. If the deadline is close, or the employer reviews applications as they arrive, do not wait.
Read Jack’s post about when to apply
Focus on fit, not volume
A thoughtful application starts with a role that genuinely suits your experience and goals. Make your CV easy to follow, use a cover letter when you have something relevant to add, and do not let an applicant count make the decision for you.
Small choices cannot guarantee an interview, but they can help you put forward a clearer, more personal application.