You have been looking for a new job, at first your thought it would be easy, “You” send your CV, “You” get the job but then you start realizing it is not that simple for everyone. You start going into analyses paralyses on what is wrong with you and why is your CV not getting the airtime it deserves.

Below are a few simple tips on getting better results when sending your CV to a recruiter or potential company.

Blanket Sending: You start your day off with going through different job boards and just apply. Apply to this, apply to that, ohhh that looks like fun, I could do that too. This is not a strategy that is not going to get you favour.

Vocational Goals: Have you really sat down and decided where you are going with your career, have you made a list of all that you want to achieve? By when? Take responsibility for your career. Nobody else is going too.

Are you being realistic: You have your goals; you know what you want to do. Ask yourself… are you qualified for this career? Do you need more training in this field? The chances of getting hired without the prerequisite training will not get you to the top of the shortlist pile. Be realistic about your goals. There is nothing wrong with a vocational change but be realistic on how you are going to get there.

Cover Letters: Cover letters do not have to become and essay. It could be a brief overview of who you are. Even better it could be a description of how you best suit the job description you are applying for. I would go as far as adding a link to your LinkedIn profile to show complete transparency at the end of your cover letter.

Transparency: You see a job and you think this is the job for you but you are missing a quality or a specific requirement that is in the job description. Be honest and upfront. Have the attitude that a recruiter is trying to assist you, the more they know the quicker you will get an answer to your CV.

Ideal Candidate vs. Ideal Job: Do not take it personally when your CV gets rejected. You are looking for the perfect job and the company is looking for the perfect candidate. So when your CV does not get shortlisted it is not a personal attack on you, the company could be trying to find the most qualified, experienced candidate within their budget constraints. This does not mean you are not an amazing candidate.

Follow up: There is nothing wrong with following up on why you never got the position or if you are going to be considered. Know what positions you are applying for. Keep a list, try and learn from the advice of people that are reading your CV, perhaps there is an insight that you overlooked.

Motivation: Do not lose faith in your job search. Remind yourself of your goals, do not be that pessimistic person that looks for external reasons. Stay motivated, stay positive. Your perfect job is out there.

Good Luck with the job search, wishing you success in finding your perfect position.

Tags: CV Advice, CV feedback, how to get replies, Simple tips