“The first thing you need to understand is if you apply for a role and you are rejected, it’s not personal.” Recruitment Specialist Charllotte Tatham explains. For many roles currently, applications are high, so to maximise your opportunity to progress your application you need to tailor your cover letter for the position you are applying for. “In essence, you need to put yourself in an employer’s shoes and consider it from their perspective.”

To be able to best tailor your application you need to research the role, by carefully reading the job advert and job description. 

When there are a high number of applications, employers will be looking to progress with candidates who clearly meet the requirements of the role. If you can address these requirements and explain how your previous experience aligns to these requirements in your cover letter you have a greater chance of progressing your application.

The second tactic is to highlight any skills or attributes which set you apart from the rest – what can you offer that may give you an edge over someone else.

I also recommend addressing any areas where you don’t meet the requirements, if you are:

• Underqualified? List what you can do and your willingness to learn new skills
• Overqualified? Focus on how your knowledge and experience can benefit the company and provide personal reasons as to why this role will fulfil you

Check you have included clearly:

• Why the role appeals to you and your motivations to work for the company
• Your current situation, why are you looking for a new role?

Consider quality over quantity when it comes to your job search. A couple of tailored applications are a better investment of your time compared to sending your CV with a generic cover letter to multiple vacancies.

Employers will be looking for the best available person for the role, who has the skills to be capable in the role and the motivation and attitude which aligns with their company culture and team. 

Identify the skills and requirements important to the employer and check these are highlighted in your application.

Consider temping

For all job seekers, temping can provide the ideal stop-gap between roles, and in many cases has the potential to lead to a permanent job opportunity within the company. 

Temping gives you the opportunity to learn new skills, share existing skills and exposes you to a wide range of industries. Learn more here.

Partner with a recruiter 
“If you haven’t registered for work with us, I highly recommend you do. The PN Personnel team can guide and support you through your job search. We can offer current employment insights and can advise on job opportunities related to your job aspirations.”

With robust connections with employers throughout the Manawatu, the PN Personnel team can offer guidance on both advertised and non-advertised opportunities.

2024 has been a tough year for both employers and job seekers and we know 2025 is looking much brighter.

Get in touch with the team at PN Personnel to discuss employment options tailored to you.