Some jobseekers seem to land interviews and offers with ease, while others spend weeks or months in limbo with nothing to show for it.
It’s one of the most common frustrations out there, and it’s getting worse.
What we’re seeing in today’s recruitment market is a tidal wave of applications. The volume per role has reached record highs. And it’s not just about numbers. Many of these applicants bring serious experience, transferable skills, and strong industry knowledge. In other words, competition has never been tougher.
From a recruiter’s perspective, this creates a real dilemma. Do they try to speak with everyone and risk delays, or do they narrow the shortlist based on their client’s demands and potentially miss out on great talent?
The truth is, most will default to the latter.
In today’s market, the ideal candidate is often judged by how closely they, through their resume, match the following seven key criteria:
- A matching or near-matching job title
- Strong industry alignment
- Specific product or service knowledge
- Market expertise
- Relevant qualifications
- Ability to clearly add value
- The right number of years’ experience
This isn’t an official rule, but it’s a fairly accurate reflection of how many hiring managers and recruiters assess applications. The more boxes you tick, the more likely you are to be shortlisted.
Is it fair? Maybe not. Many employers begin the hiring process with an open mind. But once they meet someone who ticks five or six of the boxes, the expectations shift. They want more of the same. The search tightens. And good applicants often get overlooked.
That’s why you might see the same job advertised again and again, despite hundreds of applicants. The employer is holding out for someone who fits their perfect profile.
So what can you do as a jobseeker?
Be more focused – Don’t apply for roles where you’re a stretch on every front. Focus on jobs where you align with at least three or four of the criteria.
Don’t rely on Job boards – Reach out directly to hiring managers. Start conversations. Real connections often bypass the checklist.
Tap your network – Speak to friends, colleagues, ex-teammates, anyone who might help you get a foot in the door. Referrals can shortcut the entire process.
Team up with recruiters – A strong recruiter can pitch your value far better than a resume ever could. When they believe in you, they advocate for you.
Rework your Resume – A weak resume is still one of the biggest reasons candidates get overlooked. Even AI-generated resumes often miss the mark.
