You’re sending one résumé after another, yet your inbox remains empty. Wondering why no one is responding? While we might wish that every recruiter would provide feedback, the reality is often different. In this article, we’ll reveal what happens to your CV after submission and why you may never hear about it again.
You have little relevant experience
Even if you have a strong résumé, if your previous experience is not very relevant to the position, a recruiter may quickly set it aside. They often look for candidates with specific skills and experience.
The data confirms it: A CareerBuilder survey found that 62% of HR managers spend less than 60 seconds reviewing a résumé. If you fail to capture their attention with relevant experience right from the start, your CV will be eliminated from consideration.
Solution: Before submitting your résumé, always tailor it to highlight the aspects of your career that are most relevant to the new position. Include specific projects and achievements that demonstrate your abilities.
Too many or too few résumés are coming in.
A recruiter’s workload is often overwhelming. For positions that attract hundreds of applicants, it’s practically impossible to respond to everyone. Conversely, if only a few candidates apply and none meet the criteria, the recruiter will focus on active sourcing rather than responding to incomplete applications.
The data confirms it: According to an SHRM survey, the average corporate position receives more than 250 résumés, of which only 4 to 6 candidates are eventually invited for an interview.
Solution: Focus on the quality of your application, not the quantity. Instead of sending out dozens of generic résumés, concentrate on positions that truly match your profile.
You are missing a cover letter.
Many candidates ignore it, but a cover letter is often crucial. It’s your chance to show your motivation and explain why you are the right person for the position—something that may not be obvious from your résumé alone. Failing to include one can signal a lack of interest.
The data confirms it: Our survey showed that as many as 42% of recruiters consider a missing cover letter a critical mistake that leads to a candidate’s rejection.
Solution: Always include a short but strong cover letter. Avoid clichés and instead explain what attracts you to the position and how you can contribute to the company.
You have mistakes in your résumé.
Grammatical errors, typos, or improper formatting appear unprofessional. If a recruiter encounters mistakes, they may automatically reject you, as it indicates a lack of attention to detail.
The data confirms it: According to a CareerBuilder study, up to 79% of recruiters reported that a single grammatical error in a résumé could be a reason to reject an otherwise qualified candidate. However, this is an older survey, and recruiters today may not be as strict.
Solution: Before sending your résumé, carefully proofread it or have someone else review it. Try reading it aloud to catch any mistakes.
You submitted your application late.
If the position has been open for a while and the company already has final candidates, it’s possible that your application won’t be considered, even if it’s perfect.
The data confirms it: A study by Ere Media showed that over 50% of hiring managers shortlist the most qualified candidates within the first 72 hours of a job posting.
Solution: Respond to new job postings as quickly as possible. Submitting your application early gives you a much higher chance of success.
You did not follow the application instructions.
Some companies have specific instructions for submitting applications, such as requiring an email subject line with the job reference number or submission through their careers page. Ignoring these instructions can cause your application to get lost in spam or end up in the wrong folder.
The data confirms it: Internal statistics from recruitment software show that up to 20% of applications are lost or moved to a different category simply because candidates did not follow the application instructions.
Solution: Always read the job posting instructions carefully and follow them precisely.
We hope this article, backed by real data, has helped you better understand why recruiters sometimes don’t respond. Don’t be discouraged. Instead of waiting for a reply, focus on optimizing your résumé and actively searching for opportunities. If you need help finding a job that truly fits you, don’t hesitate to contact us. At Talent Solutions, we’re here to support you and help advance your career.
