Why you’re not getting replies to your job applications
The harsh realities of the current UK job market
The harsh realities of the current UK job market
If you're thinking of switching things up a notch in 2025, know that it's brutal out there, with so many talented professionals struggling to find opportunities.
But if you’re reading this from the perspective of an ‘Open to Work” badge on your LinkedIn profile you’re probably all too familiar with the frustration of sending out application after application and hearing nothing back. You’ve likely asked yourself: Is my CV not good enough? Did I miss the mark on my cover letter?
While there’s always room for personal improvement, the truth is, the odds are often stacked against job seekers—not because of their skills or qualifications, but because of the way the recruitment process operates.
Let’s break down some of the realities in the UK job market and ways to work around them.
Scrolling through job boards, it might seem like there are endless roles up for grabs. But the reality? Many of these listings aren’t genuine.
Some recruiters, especially during economic downturns or hiring freezes, use job postings as a way to build CV libraries. They advertise roles that may not exist or have already been filled to collect candidate data “just in case” they land a client in the future.
This practice wastes your time and creates false hope. Instead of genuine job opportunities, you’re submitting applications to a data collection exercise.
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are used by many companies to screen applications. These systems scan your CV for specific keywords, rejecting anything that doesn’t fit perfectly. But here’s the kicker: they’re far from foolproof.
You could be an excellent fit for the role, but your application may never even be seen by a human.
Let’s get real: some recruiters are brilliant, but others are part of the problem. The good ones specialise in your industry, take the time to understand your skills, and genuinely work to match you with opportunities.
The others? They’re juggling too many roles/not enough roles, spending seconds on your application, or prioritising candidates they already know or who come through referrals. If you’re applying through one of these recruiters, the odds might be stacked against you from the start.
Applying directly to companies can feel like a better option, but even here, the process isn’t flawless. Employers often use rigid screening criteria or unconscious biases that exclude qualified candidates. For instance:
It’s not just about your qualifications - it’s about how employers interpret them.
While you can’t control the system, there are strategies to keep you competitive and focused:
1. Be selective with recruiters
Work with recruiters who specialise in your field and have a good reputation. Ask people in your network for good recommendations. Ask recruiters outright about the roles they’re advertising and whether they’re actively hiring for those positions. Avoid recruiters who seem vague, uninterested in your background or unwilling to take your call.
2. Tailor every application
Automated systems might not be your friend, but tailoring your CV to match the keywords in the job description can help you beat the bots. Take the extra time to customise each application - it’s better than sending out hundreds of generic ones.
3. Call
This may not be something recruiters or employers want to be bothered with, but it’s not all about them. No one ever got anywhere without asking. It should be seen as perfectly reasonable to be kept appraised during the process and may help you stand out as someone who demonstrates persistence.
4. Build and leverage your network
Most opportunities don’t come from job boards—they come from connections. Attend industry events, contact former colleagues, and engage with relevant LinkedIn groups. A referral can bypass the frustrating parts of the process entirely. Certainly, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
5. Target smaller companies
Smaller businesses often have more personalised hiring processes and fewer automated barriers. They might also be more willing to take a chance on someone who doesn’t tick every box.
6. Stay resilient
Don’t beat yourself up over rejections or radio silence. The odds are often stacked against you, and it’s not a reflection of your worth or abilities. Focus on what you can control, like learning new skills or exploring alternate career paths.
7. Consider a change
If you’ve ever thought about doing something different, maybe now’s the time to put those thoughts into action. Many turn their backs on corporate life and put their talents elsewhere when they get time to reflect. Setting time aside to think and plan outside the box, can be just as useful as time spent filling in countless job applications.
The harsh realities of job hunting and months of not being paid can’t be sugar-coated, It can be difficult to keep going in a system that isn’t perfect when it’s often not about anything you are doing wrong. All you can do is stay focused, and know that these times are cyclical. You were employable before, you are employable now.
But here’s the thing: employers and recruiters who treat candidates well today will be the ones candidates flock to tomorrow. People remember positive experiences, even in tough times. As a candidate your persistence now is an investment in your future success and a valuable lesson in how to treat candidates in any hiring situations you may be involved in, in any future role.
And if you are lucky enough to be employed, there is no harm in helping those less fortunate by using your influence on LinkedIn to share job postings as you see them, or candidate details when they ask for help.
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