When you’re submitting several applications but receiving no response, the recruitment process can become a frustrating and disheartening experience.

But just because you’re not getting feedback so far in your job search, doesn’t mean it’s impossible to change things around.

Below are five things you should be doing when your CV is failing to grab recruiters’ attention.

 

 

Follow up

When your CV isn’t getting any response, your first point of action should be to contact any recruiters to obtain feedback. Look to contact them via email with a polite note asking for an update on your application… You may be surprised at how effective a gentle reminder can be in obtaining responses.

A follow up will enable you to speak to the recruiter about the potential of them reconsidering your application. Whilst your CV may not have clearly demonstrated your experience and relevant skills, an opportunity to speak with a hiring manager could allow you to discuss the reasons why you’d be an ideal candidate for their roles.

 

Reassess your target jobs

If you have applied for several vacancies with no comeback, it might be time to reassess the career path you’re pursuing. Consider researching the sector you’re applying to, documenting any key requirements or duties in the roles you’re reviewing.  Reflect on whether your core skills are aligned with that sector.

Instead of trying to adapt yourself to an industry, it might be better to evaluate other avenues that you may be better suited to – especially if you are a school leaver. If you’re still determined to pursue a certain industry, then tweaking your CV is vital. You could also consider taking some courses to boost your suitability and improve your CV.

 

Tweak your CV accordingly

Tailoring your CV to the sector you’re applying to, is a crucial element of getting your CV noticed. Each time your application isn’t successful, use this as a chance to review your CV, check for mistakes, and add missing keywords or sector-specific skills which display your suitability for roles.

Even small tweaks such as checking for grammar mistakes or altering the structure of your CV could make a big difference.

 

Try again

When applying for roles, it’s essential to remain optimistic despite any setbacks you may face. With hundreds of applications per job posting, it’s natural to face stumbling blocks as part of the recruitment process.

Remain motivated, keeping your end goal in mind. Take on board any feedback given and look to implement changes to better your application. Whilst it may be disheartening to face rejection, keep positive and continue to apply for roles and chase feedback. Consider how you could further your application whether networking, connecting with companies through social media or trying new job boards.

 

Try some new approaches

Whilst it might seem simpler to stick to what you know when applying for roles, it’s crucial to expand your job search to increase your chances of career success. Don’t be limited to just certain sites, instead review both local and national job boards as well as sites that are focused on the industry you’re pursuing.

Also, search social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter for new vacancies, especially searching on professional platforms such as LinkedIn.  

 

Andrew Fennell is the founder of CV writing advice website StandOut CV – he is a former recruitment consultant and contributes careers advice to websites like Business Insider, The Guardian and FastCompany.