Quality vs. Quantity in Job Searching – How many CVs should you send out?

Looking for a job can be, for some, a job in and of itself. The amount of time that is put into writing each cover letter, addressing each company and formatting your CV can take up a lot of time. They say the best tactic is to be persistent and to send as many CVs out as you can. I remember this because my career counselor told me this when I finished University…But is this really the best way?

Sometimes job descriptions can be rather unclear or vague in what they are specifically looking for. At times they can also be very specific in the skills or background they require. It can all depend on the company and position and sometimes I tell candidates that even if they do not tick every single box, they should still apply.

You shouldn’t be terribly picky when applying for positions, but ruling out applications based on your skills matching their requirements is important and can save time. For example, if the position requires fluent Italian and a candidate does not speak a word, then applying may not be the best option. In the travel industry, some companies may require previous experience in the industry whether it is a cruise, airline or tour operators. If a cruise company is hiring for a sales person with experience in cruise, then applying for this role with no sales or industry experience may not be the best option. Not only does save time and effort in sending your CV across but avoids rejection. The issue with being persistent in job applications is it avoids that dreaded rejection email. The “very sorry but your application has been unsuccessful…” email that brings so many job searchers morale to the ground.

I tell candidates not only to be persistent and to continue searching but also to be realistic. Being specific in job requirements and ruling positions out can not only save time and effort but also on morale! Nobody wants to receive seven emails a day saying they have been unsuccessful in their application for a role. Be realistic and narrow down what your background and skills are, the more specific you are in applying for positions that match your profile, the more chance you have in being called in for an interview.

Written by, Emily Ziolkowski
Twitter: @Emily_HWER
www.harpwallen.co.uk