Looking for work right now can feel frustrating, especially when it seems like hundreds of people are applying for the same roles. With more candidates in the job market than available roles, it’s worth being smart and strategic about your search so you’re not wasting time on applications that go nowhere.
The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to improve your chances of getting noticed, landing interviews and securing work when competition is high.
1. Know What You Want and Where You Fit
Start by understanding the types of roles you are looking for and what you enjoy doing. Think about your skills, strengths and experience and how they fit with the roles you’re applying for. Being clear on your goals helps you tailor applications and avoid scattergun approaches.
Take time to be honest with yourself about your priorities —things like hours, location, workplace culture, and perks vary across companies. Having a plan makes your search more focused and less overwhelming.
2. Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter for Each Role
One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make is sending the same CV and cover letter to every job. Recruiters often spend only a few seconds scanning your application for suitable experience, so you want to make sure they see the right information fast.
A strong application should:
- Highlight skills and experience relevant to the job you’re applying for
- Use keywords from the job description (employers may use software that scans for these)
- Be clear, simple, and easy to read
- Keep the CV usually to one or two pages, depending on your experience
Cover letters should be brief but personal, explaining why you’re interested in the role and how you can add value.
3. Get Your Online Presence in Shape
Many employers check candidates online before offering them an interview. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date, professional, and reflects your experience. Add a good headline, a clear “About” section, and details of your skills and work history.
Being active on LinkedIn by publishing posts and interacting with others’ posts shows you are engaged in your field. A strong profile makes it easier for recruiters to find you, and it supports your application when you include a link in your CV.
4. Use Multiple Job Search Channels
Don’t rely on a single job board. Set up job alerts on SEEK, Trade Me Jobs, ZEIL, JobSpace, LinkedIn and other sites so you see roles as soon as they are posted. Act fast as early applications are more likely to get noticed.
Think beyond advertised jobs. Networking may feel uncomfortable, but it can open doors to roles that have not yet been advertised. That could mean reaching out to people in your field, attending industry events, or letting your connections know you’re looking.
5. Prepare for Interviews with Confidence
If you get an interview, preparation matters. Review the job ad again before attending, practise common questions out loud, and think about specific examples you can share that show your skills and experiences.
A good tip is to use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when answering behavioural questions to structure your responses clearly.
Remember that an interview is a two-way conversation: it’s your chance to find out if the role is right for you as well as for them.
6. Stay Resilient and Keep Learning
Job hunting can be an emotional rollercoaster. Rejection can feel personal and long processes can be exhausting. A declined application is a normal part of the process and often not a reflection of your worth. It’s important to be kind to yourself and stay patient.
Use the time between applications and interviews to upskill where you can. Short online courses, volunteering, or casual work can keep your skills fresh and boost your confidence.
7. Follow Up and Reflect
If you haven’t heard back after an interview, it’s okay to follow up after about a week. A polite email thanking the interviewer and asking if there are any updates shows you are still interested.
After each application or interview, take a moment to reflect. What went well? What could you improve next time? Small changes can make a big difference in how you present yourself over time.
Staying Focused in a Competitive Job Market
Job hunting in a tough market takes effort, focus and perseverance. By knowing what you want, tailoring your applications, networking smartly and preparing well for interviews, you can improve your chances of getting noticed and landing work.
Every application is a step forward in your journey. Be patient, keep learning, and stay positive.