From Ordinary to Extraordinary: Personalise Your Job Application to Get Noticed

In today’s job market, competition is at an all-time high. The effects of a turbulent global economy have led to an increase in job seekers, all aiming for a limited number of opportunities. Recent data from the Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) highlights that the UK experienced a 20% surge in job postings during the first quarter of 2024. However, despite this rise, unemployment figures have also seen an upward trend, creating a paradox where jobs are available but competition is tougher. In this environment, distinguishing yourself as a candidate requires more than just a polished CV. It demands strategic thinking, personalised outreach, and a clear understanding of what potential employers value.

As organisations continue to adapt to the changing economic landscape, hiring managers are inundated with applications, making it more challenging for candidates to stand out. Traditional job-seeking methods are often insufficient, necessitating a more proactive and thoughtful approach. Understanding how to market yourself effectively and tailoring your application can make a significant difference in landing that dream role.

“We’ve all been there—sending out applications, getting close, but sometimes just missing the mark.”

In a recent UK Market Update, people2people UK Recruitment Manager Hannah Scanlan was joined by Recruitment Consultant Aalia Sipos to share valuable insights into making your job search effective and impactful.

Hannah Scanlan began the discussion by addressing the common struggles job seekers face. “We’ve all been there—sending out applications, getting close, but sometimes just missing the mark,” she said. “It’s about making sure your approach stands out.” Personalisation, she emphasised, is no longer optional; it’s a must. In an era where companies receive hundreds of applications for a single role, a generic CV or cover letter won’t suffice. Tailoring your application to reflect the specific requirements of the job and aligning your values with the company’s can set you apart from other candidates.

Aalia Sipos expanded on this by advising candidates who have been job hunting for a while without success to reassess their approach. “If you’re getting to the final stage without an offer, you might need to adjust how you’re applying and networking,” she said. One of the critical aspects of personalisation is ensuring your application doesn’t look like a mass-produced document. Employers are more likely to take notice if you can show that you’ve done your homework.

In addition to personalising your application materials, Aalia stressed the importance of being proactive in your outreach efforts. “Contacting companies or hiring managers directly can really set you apart from the crowd,” she explained. While applying through job listings is essential, it’s not always enough. Candidates should consider going the extra mile by reaching out personally to individuals who make hiring decisions. This might mean connecting with hiring managers on LinkedIn or sending a thoughtful message that expresses your interest in the company.

Aalia provided practical advice on making outreach effective: “Networking boosts your application and increases your chances of getting noticed, even if it doesn’t lead to an immediate job offer.” The benefits of networking are twofold. First, it puts your name and credentials in front of the right people, even if they’re not hiring at the moment. Second, it demonstrates your genuine interest in the company, which can leave a lasting impression for future opportunities.

Another essential element discussed during the conversation was the value of in-depth research. Knowing the company’s values, mission, and recent achievements shows that you’re serious about wanting to join their team. Aalia highlighted this: “Researching the company and identifying the best person to connect with shows your interest and can make a significant difference.” This strategy isn’t just about impressing the hiring manager; it’s about aligning yourself with the company’s culture and objectives.

Hannah added that understanding the company’s industry trends can also make your application stand out. For instance, if you’re applying for a role in tech, being aware of the latest innovations or challenges in the field and referencing them in your interview or cover letter can show that you’re well-informed and proactive.

One of the most impactful pieces of advice Aalia offered was to avoid generic communication at all costs. “Personalise each outreach, and show the value you bring,” she advised. In a world where automation has made it easy to send out dozens of applications at once, personal touches can set you apart. Customising your message and demonstrating how your skills can specifically benefit the company shows that you’re not just looking for any job—you’re looking for the right job.

Hannah reinforced this by pointing out that authenticity matters. “Every message is a chance to stand out,” she said. Candidates who can clearly articulate their value proposition and maintain their authentic voice are more memorable to hiring managers. It’s not just about what you say but how you say it. Being genuine in your communication can create a more favourable impression than trying too hard to fit a mould.

Practical Tips for Job Seekers

1. Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Customise your CV and cover letter for each role, highlighting specific skills and experiences that match the job description. Mention how your background aligns with the company’s values and goals.
   
   
2. Engage with the Company on Social Media: Follow the company on platforms like LinkedIn and engage with their content. Comment on their posts or share relevant articles to increase your visibility.
   
   
3. Prepare Thoroughly for Interviews: Don’t just prepare for the role; understand the company’s challenges and think about how you can contribute to overcoming them. Be ready to discuss your insights during the interview.
   
   
4. Network, Network, Network: Attend industry events, webinars, and workshops. Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field and engage in meaningful conversations.
   
   

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In business since 2002 in Australia, NZ, and the United Kingdom, people2people is an award-winning recruitment agency with people at our heart. With over 12 offices, we specialise in accounting and finance, business support, education, executive, government, HR, legal, marketing and digital, property, sales, supply chain, and technology sectors. As the proud recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Large Agency and Excellence in Candidate Care Awards, we are dedicated to helping businesses achieve success through a people-first approach.