Are you still stuck on why recruiters keep ghosting you? Here is how to get feedback on your applications.
Have you ever wondered why you did not get that job even when you matched all the requirements? Have you ever wished you could just get some feedback from recruiters who come across your application? I'm sure you answered, "yes," because even though rejection paired with negative feedback is hard, not getting a response to your job applications is worse.
Here are reasons why your CV is not making the cut:
Errors in your contact details
After all your hard work and a night of no sleep, the last digit on your phone number is missing, your email address is [email protected] instead of [email protected], and worst of all, you forget to include your contacts altogether. How then is the recruiter supposed to reach out to you for feedback? These little details could be standing in the way of your employment.
The ‘cool’ email address
I am talking to the ones with email addresses like [email protected] or [email protected]. Yes, we are in the era of freedom of expression, but you might want to tone this down when dealing with your future employer. Some recruiters get biased quickly, and such an email address may only get your CV two seconds or less of review.
Late submissions
The earlier, the better. When it comes to job applications, always send in your resume as soon as you can. Waiting to send your application just before the deadline might cost you a dream job. Some application pools close depending on the number of candidates that have applied, this means that your CV might not make it among those that will get feedback.
A disorganized layout
First impressions on your CV count. Having a messy CV could be the reason you are not getting feedback on your applications. Disorganized fonts, uneven space lines, and mixed font sizes can all make your CV look like a hot mess, so make sure everything is orderly and consistent throughout the whole document.
Not aligning your CV with the job description
Have you aligned your CV with the job description in question? If not, then your CV won't get a second glance. Recruiters are looking for key requirements and roles in your CV, when they do not get them, an automatic rejection will follow.
A one-size-fits-all CV
Your CV as a marketer is not the same as the one you’ll want to send for an administrator job and also the QA role at company X. If there is one thing you should not test in recruiters, it’s their patience. It is very easy to know whether a person spent time applying for a given job or not. If you just copy and paste your CV, you will not attract any feedback.
The ‘grammar’ teacher
“I am an astute and intuitive individual….willing to work in your company to improve the mastery of my abilities in the procurement field.”
No recruiter has a standby dictionary as they go through your CV. If your grammar sounds too complicated, they will probably put yours aside to continue with other CVs that are more readable.
Now that we have seen our mistakes, what is the solution? If you want to get feedback on your applications these tips will be of great help:
Proofread your CV
It is advisable to have a write-up of the job description as you make your application. Before submitting, look through the details and requirements specified and tick them off. Have they asked for references or not? Have you put in all your contact details correctly? Have they asked you to attach extra documents? Having clarity on these requirements will give your CV more credibility so recruiters can easily provide feedback on your applications.
Keep it simple and professional
Creating a specific email ID for your job applications will not hurt. If you still prefer to use your [email protected] address with your friends, then let [email protected] be your official email address. It is those little things that make you a candidate worthy of an interview or constructive feedback.
Also, resist using cool fonts and too many colors in your CV. Keep it simple with the format and font.
Follow the job advert rules
Do they want hand-delivered applications or only require online applications? Should you apply using their website or email them? Make sure you know what is needed. Sometimes candidates make a lot of assumptions about their recruiters. If you want to get feedback from recruiters make sure you follow the terms and conditions of the job advert.
Be realistic
Sometimes we send applications to jobs where we do not meet even 50% of the requirements. When recruiters are focused on getting the right candidate, you might not make the cut of those to get feedback. Ask yourself, is it worth the headache? Nevertheless, applying to roles where you do not meet all the qualifications is not good for your state of mind.
Reply to rejection emails
Yes, the best way to overcome your fears is by facing them. Replying to that rejection email will help you get clarity.
Here’s an example:
Dear Recruiting Manager,
Thank you for your timely response to my application. I understand I did not make it to the next stage. I would like to get feedback on how I can improve and do better next time. Your response will mean a lot to my career progression.
Thank you.
Read also: How to respond to a rejection email.
Call for feedback
This is not stepping outside your boundaries, trust me. If they can not give you feedback, then follow up. It will give you peace of mind to make that call or send an email following up on the progress of your application. Make the right inquiry on the progress of your CV. If you have not been shortlisted, then find out why. Sometimes no one will give you a seat on the table unless you get it for yourself.
The job search is not for the faint-hearted. The best lesson is to learn through your shortfalls and prepare for any possible outcomes.
