What jobs should I apply for?

Take a selective approach

Working in recruitment, I've come to realise a crucial piece of advice: not every job posting is worth applying for.

In today's digital age, where technology has transformed the way we connect with potential employers, a hasty approach to job applications can often do more harm than good.

In my role at 11 Recruitment, I've encountered numerous candidates who seem to be casting a wide net by applying to an astonishing number of positions – sometimes 30, 50, or even more. Unfortunately, this approach rarely yields positive results, and here's why.

When you submit a multitude of applications, there's a high chance that your CV and cover letter come across as generic and lack the personalised touch that recruiters appreciate. This generic nature makes it easy for your application to be overlooked, lost in the sea of other submissions.

From a recruiter's perspective, a flood of applications from a single candidate can raise some red flags. Questions like, "If they've applied to this many roles here, how many other companies are they reaching out to?" or "Why has this candidate not secured a position despite the high number of applications?" start to surface. This abundance of applications can inadvertently signal a lack of genuine interest in the specific role and an air of desperation for any job that comes along.

Think about it – if I were the recruiter and saw a candidate's history filled with a rapid succession of applications, it would certainly give me pause. It might make me question their sincerity about joining our team and cause me to hesitate before considering their application seriously.

Interestingly, there's research by Robert Coombs that delves into this very topic. Coombs experimented with a bot that applied to an extensive range of job openings. Surprisingly, he found that the sheer volume of applications he sent out had little impact on the response rate he received from employers. It's a compelling reminder that quality often trumps quantity in the realm of job applications.

Instead of treating job applications like a numbers game, my recommendation, based on years of observation and insight, is to adopt a more strategic and focused approach. Be selective in your choices, tailoring your applications to align with the specific requirements and culture of each company. Craft thoughtful, individualised CVs and cover letters that showcase your genuine interest in the role and your qualifications for it. This will not only increase your chances of standing out but also convey your dedication and enthusiasm to potential employers. Remember, in the competitive world of job hunting, a targeted and consistent approach can truly make all the difference.

If you need help identifying which roles are worth applying for, you should check out my blog post: How to get your dream job.

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