The latest question we put to some of Find Recruitment’s talent……

Q: There are stories that hiring managers are seeing hundreds of applicants for jobs that would usually only have a few, is this true, and how does someone make themselves stand out amongst the rest with their application?

This is true, although majority of people that are applying for the roles have none of the experience that is put in the job ad… Make yourself stand out by stating your experience/key skills and linking it back to the job ad, proof reading your CV, and not having a lengthy CV.  You could also even do a quick video of yourself to showcase your personality and current situation and why you believe you are a good fit for the advertised role.

Kendall Bushby, Senior Consultant

In the legal sector, whilst there is definitely an increase in applicants, they are not necessarily the right or the perfect applicants.   Traditionally, lawyers are the least active in terms of applying for roles, it is a much more passive market and so whilst there may be a few extra candidates in the market at present that are actively seeking opportunities, for many legal roles it is still a case of proactively sourcing the right candidates with the right skill set.

Louise Hall-Strutt – Senior Recruiter – Legal

It definitely is true!  But you can stand out from the rest by making sure the following is detailed at the top of your CV:

• Your availability – immediate/1 month etc
• Your citizenship/residency/Visa status
• A link to your LinkedIn profile (and make sure your LinkedIn Profile is updated and looking sharp)
• If appropriate, a professional/smiling photo.  I wouldn’t normally say that but, in these crazy times, it’s a great way to distinguish yourself and show your unique characteristics/style.

Also make sure that you weave as many of the skills and attributes detailed in the advertisement/position description (that are relevant to you) into your CV, preferably on the 1st page.  That way the recruiter can see an instant alignment between your skillset and the requirements of the role.

Customise your CV to each and every job application and ensure you state all information that is pertinent to the role in question in your CV not just the cover letter, particularly if it is a significant selling point.

Danae Young – Senior Recruiter – Corporate

1. Tailor your CV, not just your Cover Letter to the job you are applying for.
2. Be clear and concise, highlight your skills and experience that match the job advert or job description.
3. Use the same words or similar terminology to the job advert so when the recruiter is skim reading CVs yours will stand out as a good match.
4. Add in details the new employer will want to know such as visa status, notice period, why you are leaving/left your most recent role, and a link to your LinkedIn profile
5. Make an effort to get to know the company/organisation you are applying for, what does their website say, do their values align with yours, is it an industry you are passionate about? Use these points in a personal statement to highlight why you want the job and make you stand out.

Helene Smith – Principal Consultant