Applied to 99 Jobs but I Ain’t Got 1

Feel like you are applying for job after job but aren’t making traction? You’re not alone! This is a common theme we are hearing in the people2people Perth office.

In February 2019, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released the unemployment figures for Western Australia (WA), which were the highest they have been since January 2002. So although we are now bouncing back, unfortunately that means there is still a lot of competition for job seekers.

So what can you do to stand out and start making progress?

Match your skills

Look at the roles you have been applying for. The most glaringly obvious question is - do you meet the criteria that the employer is looking for?

In a tough market it can be tempting to just give it a go anyway, but if you don’t meet all of the requirements a better approach would be to call the hiring manager to see whether it is still worth you applying. It saves you time putting together an application, saves the hiring manager time reviewing a resume that might not be suitable and also gives you an opportunity to market yourself on the phone and make a good first impression. Something you can’t always do effectively in a word document.

Your resume

Studies show that on average, a recruiter or hiring manager will spend just 6 seconds on reviewing your resume. That’s just 6 seconds to win them over!

  • Do you have all the key words that are relevant that the reviewer will be looking for?
  • Is it concise and easy to follow? It doesn’t need to be a War and Peace; bullet points are best!
  • Have you included your achievements?
  • Don’t include details that are too personal and not relevant i.e. your marital status, health, age or anything of that nature
  • Spend extra time making your resume specific to the role for which you are applying; sure it takes extra time, but it’s worth it!

Follow up with a call

  • Call, call, call!!! Express your interest, give a BRIEF (please don’t start your story from childhood) introduction of yourself over the phone, advising you will be sending your details through.
  • You will cut the queue if you sound great on the phone and if the resume reviewer has hundreds of resumes to look through
  • Call for feedback - if you met all the criteria listed on a job advertisement it would be a good idea to ask for feedback of why you weren’t successful, to help you for future applications

Speak to your recruiter

Seek advice, ask for any pointers or any feedback of what you could do differently to make you stand out or if there is room for improvement. If you are looking for more advice or to see if we can help you land your next role, then please call our Auckland office on 0800 727 968.

Get in touch

Kim Padmore • June 19, 2019

Find out more by contacting one of our specialisat recruitment consultants across Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Contact us

Share this article

Useful links

Search for jobs today

Got a vacancy?

What's happening in the market?

How do I prepare for my job interview?

Recent Insights

By Claire McNab May 26, 2024
In today's rapidly changing world, the call for environmental responsibility is louder than ever. With climate change looming as a critical global challenge, businesses are increasingly under pressure to play their part in mitigating its effects. One of the most significant ways they can contribute is by taking accountability for their sustainability practices, particularly in reducing carbon emissions.
By Esha Nischol May 19, 2024
In today's rapidly evolving landscape, automation is reshaping industries and transforming the way we work. While automation offers numerous benefits, including increased efficiency and productivity, it also presents challenges and uncertainties for the workforce. Understanding the opportunities and challenges of automation on employment is crucial for individuals and organizations alike as we navigate the future of work.
By Hamish Lamberton May 15, 2024
In recent years, the rise of remote work has revolutionized the way companies approach recruitment. With advancements in technology and a growing acceptance of virtual communication tools, many organizations are now embracing remote recruitment strategies to attract and hire top talent. In this blog post, we'll explore how companies are adapting to virtual hiring processes and the strategies they're employing to succeed in this new era of recruitment. One of the key challenges of remote recruitment is creating meaningful connections with candidates without the benefit of face-to-face interactions. To overcome this obstacle, companies are leveraging video conferencing platforms to conduct virtual interviews and assessments. These tools allow recruiters to assess candidates' communication skills, professionalism, and cultural fit, all while providing a more personal touch than traditional phone interviews. In addition to video interviews, companies are also utilizing virtual recruitment events to engage with candidates and showcase their employer brand. Virtual career fairs, networking sessions, and informational webinars allow companies to connect with a broader pool of candidates regardless of geographic location. By hosting these events online, companies can reach candidates who may not have been able to attend in-person events, thereby expanding their talent pool and increasing diversity. Another important aspect of remote recruitment is the use of technology to streamline the hiring process. Applicant tracking systems (ATS) and recruitment software help companies manage job postings, track candidate applications, and collaborate with hiring teams more efficiently. These tools automate repetitive tasks, such as resume screening and scheduling interviews, freeing up recruiters to focus on building relationships with candidates and making strategic hiring decisions. Furthermore, companies are investing in employer branding initiatives to differentiate themselves in a competitive talent market. Through social media, company blogs, and virtual office tours, organizations can showcase their company culture, values, and employee benefits to prospective candidates. By highlighting their unique selling points and demonstrating their commitment to employee satisfaction, companies can attract top talent and create a positive candidate experience. Finally, remote recruitment requires a strong emphasis on communication and collaboration among hiring teams. With team members working from different locations, it's essential to establish clear channels of communication and set expectations for roles and responsibilities. Regular check-ins, status updates, and feedback sessions ensure that everyone is aligned and working towards common hiring goals. In conclusion, remote recruitment strategies are becoming increasingly essential for companies looking to stay competitive in today's digital age. By embracing virtual hiring processes, leveraging technology, and prioritizing communication and collaboration, organizations can attract and hire top talent regardless of geographic location. As remote work continues to evolve, companies that adapt and innovate in their recruitment strategies will be best positioned to succeed in the future of work.

NZ's 2024 Employment

and Salary Trends Report

Salary trends, talent attraction and retention strategies

Request your copy
Share by: