Recruiters are constantly on the lookout for great candidates, but what exactly makes a candidate stand out in a crowded job market? We asked four of our recruitment professionals - Wini, Mick, Jane, and Gemma about the key qualities they look for in candidates.
A Strong and Clear CV
First impressions matter, and for recruiters, your CV is the first thing they'll see. Having a “clear and concise CV” that provides personal information, key job titles, and detailed descriptions of your previous roles is essential. However, it's more than just a list of jobs—the structure and the personality you convey through your CV are just as important.
Mick believes it’s important to “tailor your CV to the role you’re applying for.” In today’s competitive job market, a well-structured CV highlighting your skills and experience can showcase your strengths and set you apart from the crowd, so it's worth the effort to get it right.
Longevity and Commitment
Recruiters like Wini and Jane also value candidates with commitment and reliability in their career history. “Longevity in previous roles shows dedication,” says Wini. Jane agrees, emphasising that a reliable candidate who is “consistent, keen, and contactable” is more likely to succeed in a long-term role.
Showing that you are committed to growing within a company, rather than jumping from job to job, can signal to recruiters that you’re a strong hire.
Motivation and Enthusiasm
A common theme among all four recruiters is enthusiasm. Wini looks for candidates who are “eager to find a role” and know exactly what they’re looking for. Mick adds, "It's essential that candidates are motivated to move for the right reasons."
Demonstrating genuine excitement about the role and company can make you a more attractive prospect. Employers are drawn to individuals who are proactive and motivated to contribute to their business.
Finding the Right Cultural Fit
Cultural fit can make or break your success at a company, and recruiters have various ways of assessing it. According to Mick, a candidate’s willingness to engage is a good indicator.
“Spending time with a candidate helps us understand what they’re looking for and if they’ll fit into a company,” he explains. The more you share about your values and goals, the easier it is for recruiters to determine whether you’re a good match for the company culture.
Tips for Standing Out
If you’re looking to catch a recruiter’s eye, there are several ways to stand out. First and foremost, make sure your CV is up-to-date and tailored to each role. Pay attention to the details - small errors can be costly. As Mick says, “Double-check your CV for finer details.”
For Gemma, authenticity is key: “Make sure your CV sounds like you.” Don’t rely on templates or AI-generated content. Your personality should shine through and not get lost in generic phrasing. Additionally, Jane recommends continuous communication with your recruiter. "If something isn’t right, be honest about it," she says. This allows them to find roles that better match your needs.
So, there you have it, recruiters are looking for more than just skills and experience; they want candidates who are committed, motivated, and a good fit for the company culture. By presenting a clear, tailored CV, demonstrating enthusiasm, and staying true to your personal values, you can significantly boost your chances of landing your next role.
