What’s The Best Way To Get Your CV Noticed?

By Perminus Wainaina

You’ve been sending applications for months now and you are yet to get an interview. With every new application you question whether you are wasting time. You are left to wonder whether the problem is you, or employers and recruiters. And you desperately want your CV noticed.

If it’s any consolation, you are not alone. Over 80 percent of job applicants don’t get to hear back from advertisers. Being a recruiter, it’s not a figure that I am happy with, but it’s an industry fact. There are things that recruiters and employers can do to improve on the job seekers experience, but in the end, it goes back to the candidate. Success or failure for the most part depends on you, and I’ll explain why in a moment.

Just getting called for an interview is a plus in itself. You feel confident that someone somewhere has recognized your skills and what you have to offer. It’s a morale booster that prompts you to apply for other vacancies. And naturally, the more interviews you attend, the higher the chances of getting hired. In addition, you get to save time and money when your applications yield results in the shortest time possible.

So, What’s The Best Way To Get Your CV Noticed?

1. Network. Over 50% of jobs are never advertised, and only 15% of open vacancies get to the newspapers and online job sites. This is where it becomes problematic. Imagine all qualified Kenyans chasing after the 15% of advertised posts. Employers are simply overwhelmed and there’s a high chance your application will not get to the right hands.

You might be a very good candidate but because there are many of you, there is a high likelihood of you missing out. For example, assume your application is number 350 and the employer stopped short listing on the 90th candidate having gotten enough to interview!!! My advice; get out and know people. If your CV can reach decision makers and bypass these common hurdles, the better your chances of making it to an interview.

2. Approach recruiters & employers directly. You’ve been sending applications without success. Why don’t you make an appointment with a recruiter? Recruiters are always looking to fill positions in the shortest time possible. If you meet the requirements there’s no harm in calling and introducing yourself. And whenever you have time, make a point of having a one on one conversation.

Sending emails like everyone else will only lead to disappointment. Times have changed. Be proactive. However, be careful not to canvas or appear pushy.

3. Only apply for those jobs that you qualify. There’s no way you qualify for those 10 jobs that you apply for every day. Be realistic and ask yourself whether you meet 80% of the requirements. I meet many candidates who are confident they can deliver on the job. Unfortunately, the only thing they have is confidence.

Ask yourself, do I have the skills, trainings and interest for the job? You can have the best CV but if you lack in any of the above, an interviewer will notice. Be choosy and target the right jobs and I can assure you of a good success rate.

4.Tweak your CV for the job. It should not take a potential employer a lot of time trying to figure out whether you are a good fit. Don’t make the mistake of having one CV that you use for every application. As much as possible, edit your CV to suit the job. Emphasize on the skills and experience required by the employer.

Have achievements that showcase your ability to deliver. This shouldn’t be hard especially if you are only applying for those jobs that you qualify.

Job search is not an easy thing and there are many factors beyond your control. However, you should work on those areas that you have a 100% control. After all, you know yourself better.

I wish you the very best with your next job application.

Perminus Wainaina is a Recruitment Manager at Corporate Staffing Services. He delights in seeing professionals take control of their own careers and make choices that work better for them.
Email: perminus@corporatestaffing.co.ke

4 Comments

  1. thanks a lot for the advice, have been called for many interviews, but after interview there is no feedbacks.l real appreciate I think I will have to improve and edit my CV.

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