You’re not alone. In fact, a staggering 55% of British job seekers say they never hear back after applying for roles. Silence, or “ghosting”, feels worse than rejection. 86% of people would rather receive a “no” than no response at all, with 41% saying it chips away at their confidence.
Not hearing back wastes mental energy: most (74%) say a response – even a rejection – would help them stop dwelling, and 71% feel it would reduce stress.
Why the Hiring Process Feels Broken
Employers are overwhelmed. Some recruiters report receiving hundreds of applications, even for highly specialised roles and up to 80% are unqualified. Competition is fierce, leaving applicants feeling lost in a sea of CVs, unsure if their efforts are even being seen.
For graduates, the competition is especially brutal: on average, only one in 140 applicants secures a graduate-level role. AI-powered screening tools and applicant tracking systems (ATS) also filter out candidates, often unfairly, leaving many overlooked.
Market Realities to Know
High application volumes: Many roles attract 100s of applicants, making it nearly impossible for every candidate to get a response.
Skills vs degree disparity: Especially in AI and green sectors, employers increasingly prioritise demonstrable skills over formal qualifications.
Your Next Steps: Standing Out in the Crowd
Here are some game-changing tips to help your applications get noticed:
- Tailor, tailor, tailor
Generic applications vanish. Match your CV and cover letter closely with the job description and mirror key phrases and highlight experiences that directly relate to the role.
- Focus on skills
Especially for AI, tech, or green sectors, showcase practical skills through side projects, certifications, or freelancing – rather than just your industry qualifications.
- Use networking smartly
Many new job opportunities now come through personal connections. Engage on LinkedIn, attend local business events or reach out to us at Personnel Placements. A personal message often lands where online systems don’t.
4. Keep your CV ATS-friendly
Use a clean layout, standard headings like “Work Experience” and “Qualifications”, and avoid graphics that can confuse screening software. More tips on writing your CV for applicant tracking systems here.
5. Ask for feedback
Whenever possible, politely request feedback, even a brief one. While not always provided, it shows professionalism and could open the door for future roles.
Remember to stay resilient and organised. Job searching can be draining – 51% of Brits have given up because the process felt too long or demoralising. Keep a clear tracking system, schedule job-search breaks and celebrate small wins.
How Businesses Can Help and Why It Matters
Employers, you play a key role too:
- Acknowledge applicants: Even simple auto-responses like “Thanks for applying” or “You’ll hear by…” reduce anxiety and preserve your employer brand.
- Provide status updates: Automated or human touchpoints, e.g., “Application received”, “Interview in progress” make a huge difference.
- Use tech wisely and compassionately; AI can help, but follow up with human touch to ensure qualified candidates don’t fall through the cracks.
- Train hiring teams: Help recruiters recognise transferable skills, not just tick-box requirements.
How Personnel Placements Helps You Stand Out
At Personnel Placements, Salisbury’s leading independent recruitment partner, we don’t just fill jobs, we build real partnerships.
Here’s how we help you:
- We get to know your strengths, goals, and local context to match you with roles across Salisbury, Wiltshire and the UK.
- Our experts help you create standout CVs, tailored applications and interview-ready pitches.
- We work closely with SMEs and larger employers, offering insight into unadvertised opportunities.
- HR support and training for businesses
We improve the hiring journey for you and future applicants by advising employers on more inclusive, responsive practices that continues through to onboarding, team management. Conducting performance reviews and more! Our associate colleague at Access2 Human Resources can help at every stage of your new employees employment.
In Summary
Not hearing back after applying isn’t a failure, it’s a reflection of a job market under strain. But you can take charge!
- Tailor applications to each role.
- Emphasise skills and real-world results.
- Network early and often.
- Keep organised and methodical.
Hiring organisations, your candidate experience matters. Simple touches like timely responses and clarity go a long way.
And if you’re looking for jobs in Salisbury, Wiltshire, or anywhere in the UK, Personnel Placements is here to help. Drop us a line and let’s move your search forward together.
