Why Fewer, Well-Crafted Job Applications Get Better Results

In the fiercely competitive world of job hunting, it's tempting to believe that casting a wide net and applying to as many jobs as possible increases your chances of getting a job — it's a numbers game after all, isn't it?

But this quantity-over-quality approach often leads to mounting frustration, a string of automatic rejections, and in the worst cases, burnout and complete despondency. Having been through the job search process myself, I know how tedious and discouraging the whole thing can be. As a recruiter, I’ve also heard similar stories from hundreds of others who’ve faced the same struggles.

Instead, I’ve found that focusing on fewer, more thoughtfully-curated job applications is a far better strategy for success.

What's the Problem with Quantity-driven Applications?

The logic behind applying to as many jobs as possible seems sound: the more jobs you apply to, the more chances you'll have to be considered for one. But this approach often backfires.

When applying to dozens of jobs, it’s nearly impossible to give each application the individual attention it needs to stand out. The number of applicants per job can vary depending on factors like the seniority of the position, the job itself, and perhaps how well-known the company is, but in my experience, the typical average for HR roles is around 25 to 60 applicants. It doesn't take a mathematician to realise those aren't the greatest odds.

Now there isn't anything you can do to reduce the number of applicants, but what you can do is tailor your applications to boost your chances of getting noticed. Tailored applications ensure you're reflecting the exact competencies, skills, and criteria outlined in the job description — this applies to both CVs and cover letters. Tailoring applications of course takes more time, attention, and a greater deal of thought and consideration, but the last thing you want is for your CV or cover letter to be tossed in the 'reject' pile on the basis of it being too generic or not strongly reflecting the role criteria.

What are the Benefits of a Choosing a Quality-based Approach?

Paul Wolfe, SVP of Human Resources at Indeed, says:

“The most important thing you can do to improve your chances [of securing a job] is to carefully evaluate each job you’re applying for to ensure a good fit. Be honest with yourself and ask, ‘Are you qualified to do the job?’ and ‘Do you actually want to do this job?’”

I couldn't agree more, Paul.

When you take the time to tailor your application to each specific job, you demonstrate genuine interest in the role and a clear understanding of what they're looking for. This effort is often rewarded, as tailored applications are more likely to catch the attention of recruiters and hiring managers.

By also focusing on fewer, higher-quality applications, you reduce the risk of burnout and maintain a more positive and sustainable job search experience. Taking the time to rest and recharge between applications allows you to approach each opportunity with fresh energy and enthusiasm. This not only improves the quality of your applications but also helps you maintain a positive outlook throughout the job search process.

I should caveat though before proceeding further that I don't expect job seekers to completely tailor or rewrite their CVs or cover letters for each individual role — that would be just as exhausting. Typically, there's enough overlap between the same roles where you can recycle some of the same elements, but every job description will contain nuances that you should address and adapt to.

How do I Correctly Tailor my Applications?

To tailor your application, carefully read the job description and identify the key competencies outlined. Then highlight on your CV or cover letter how you demonstrate those exact qualities, either through the like-for-like experience or transferable experience you have, ideally using the exact keywords or key phrases from the job description.

The ATS (Applicant Tracking System) evaluates your proficiency with qualifications by analysing how often certain keywords appear in your resume. However, when considering the use of “buzzwords,” it’s crucial to prioritize quality over quantity. Repeating the same keywords excessively won’t necessarily boost your chances and may even backfire. Modern ATS software can detect when a resume is overloaded with keywords, which could harm your application. A more effective strategy is to thoughtfully incorporate relevant qualifications into your professional summary, skills section, and experience descriptions, ensuring they appear naturally and contextually within your resume.

I also always recommend using specific examples to back up your statements, and colouring these examples with rich detail that would be relevant to the job you're applying to. This not only shows to the recruiter or hiring manager that you’ve done your homework, but also makes it easier for them to see why you’re a good fit for the role.

I also suggest visiting the company’s website and reading up on its mission, values, and recent news. Look for information about the company culture, key projects, and any challenges the organisation might be facing. This research will not only help you write a more targeted cover letter but will also provide valuable insights you can use during interviews.

To Conclude...

Focusing on fewer, quality job applications is a more effective approach than casting a wide net with generic submissions. You can do both concurrently, but by adding in more tailoring tom your applications, conducting thorough research, and leveraging your network, you can significantly improve your chances of landing your desired role.

As a final note, I should also say that there's no one-size-fits-all formula for how many job applications you should submit daily or weekly. The ideal number can vary depending on your schedule, the timeline of your job search, and other personal factors. It’s important to set a realistic weekly goal that allows you to tailor each application to the specific role. A general recommendation is to aim for about ten applications per week. However, you might find that, based on your circumstances, three to five well-crafted applications are more manageable, or you may be able to handle up to 20. Generally, submitting more than 20 quality applications in a week is challenging. Pay attention to your personal limits and avoid sacrificing quality for quantity.

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