Why do candidates CV Get Lost in the Applicant Abyss

In an increasingly competitive employment market, the playing field is paved with large numbers of CVs. But while some sail effortlessly to interview, others vanish into the Applicant Abyss with total silence. 

Let’s understand and decode the top reasons that I see that result in candidates get relegated to the “unsuccessful for shortlist pile.”

1. The Unexplained: Gaps in employment happen and employers are understanding about the 2020 – 2021 Covid period and the upheaval it caused in the employment market. However, a six-month “strategic career refresh” with zero tangible outcomes? This always raises eyebrows with hiring managers. Use this space to showcase valuable projects, volunteer work, or even upskilling, demonstrating initiative and continuous growth.  A gap on your CV with no explanation just isn’t acceptable from a hiring managers perspective. It could suggest that you couldn’t get a job or couldn’t be bothered to, as brutal as that may sound! 2023 saw arise in these gaps. I received many applicants having no employment history on their CV post August 2023 but had decided suddenly in January 2024 to pick up their job search.
2. The Serial job switcher: Three jobs in two years? While your dynamism is admirable if its for “Career progression” it raises big questions on your commitment or to your performance in a job role. Employers will question if its a failed probationary or even dismissal.
3. The Embellishment Enigma: Experienced recruiters are also very good detectives. Inflated job titles and responsibilities are readily found out; “Head of Marketing” for a local bakery? Authenticity is  key, even when embellishing past achievements. Dishonesty on your CV will always reflect badly on your application. Employers do and will check social media profiles, they will seek to match your CV to your public Linked-in profile so you will be found out!
4. Minimal or no commercial office-based experience: Applying for an experienced role with no visible work experience will be an auto-reject for any shortlist.  Where you have little work experience perhaps showcase relevant coursework, volunteer work, or even personal projects that demonstrate your potential and hunger to learn. It may not get you an interview for this role but may catch the eye of the hiring manager for another role.
5. The Level Labyrinth: Salary levels reflect the experience and responsibility required for a role. Applying for a role with a £10k+ leap while lacking the requisite experience may explain your past rejections. Just because the job title is the similar it does not mean that the role is equivalent. Focus on aligning your skills and experience with the specific level of the target role.
6. Leaving jobs without a new one secured? This is a huge red flag. Questions will be? Did you depart on your own terms? Did you walk out because you were “just bored”. Be upfront, explain the situation professionally, and highlight how you used the time productively. A hiring manager will perceive this as a lack of commitment and tenacity.

Remember, your CV is your digital handshake. Tailor it to the role, avoid these pitfalls, and let your genuine skills and personality shine through. Honesty and clarity are your allies in the executive search arena. Let us partner to unlock your career potential and rewrite your professional narrative, one successful placement at a time.