87% of job applications go ‘ignored’
- 87% of jobseekers say their job applications are often ignored
- 38% of jobseekers are sending out over 20 applications per week
- 58% of jobseekers would be put off by a long application process
- 66% of hiring managers can identify the use of AI in a CV
- 71% of hiring managers have noticed an increase in applications, with 54% stating it’s slowed down hiring processes
87% of jobseekers in Canada feel that their job applications are being ignored – with 59% admitting that they now use AI to help with the job hunt process.
The survey findings – from global talent solutions business Robert Walters – reveals how the skyrocketing volume of job applications is leaving hiring managers overwhelmed, leading to longer response times and, ultimately, candidates being left in the dark.
Increased applications with automation tools
In a job market where candidates are becoming more reliant on speed and ease – where 58% of jobseekers wouldn’t apply to a role if it had a long application process - 45% confirm they are utilizing AI/automation tools in their job search, with 14% stating that they use them regularly.
While automation helps candidates quicken their job search, the surge in application volume has led to employers being inundated, slowing their processes. In fact, 54% of hiring managers admit that this influx has caused delays, with many applications not meeting the basic criteria for the roles in question.
31% of hiring managers also claim they can spot when a candidate has used AI to create their CV or cover letter, mainly due to the impersonal language and perfect formatting, with 48% stating that a use of AI would negatively impact their opinion of the candidate.
Martin Fox, Managing Director of Robert Walters Canada, explains, "While AI can be helpful for quick applications, hiring managers value authenticity and a true reflection of a candidate’s experience. Many professionals believe tailoring their CV with AI improves their chances, but employers can often spot the language or overly polished formatting, which can actually work against them."
Job applications high – but quality varies
The survey reveals that 38% of jobseekers send out over 20 job applications per week. This mass outreach can result in candidates missing key details of job postings or failing to tailor their applications to the role. In turn, employers are seeing a higher rate of applications that miss key experience or skills requirements.
"Employers are receiving more applications than ever before, but they're spending more time sifting through unsuitable candidates,” explains Martin. “It’s a challenging situation because hiring managers don’t want to miss out on great talent, but they are also struggling to manage the volume effectively."
The top cause for rejecting applications is a lack of relevant experience, with 44% of hiring managers citing it as their primary reason. In addition, 37% of employers manually review and manage applications in their applicant tracking systems (ATS), but the sheer volume has led to some qualified candidates slipping through the net and being overlooked.
Quality over quantity
While it’s tempting for candidates to send out as many applications as possible, Martin advises jobseekers to take a more mindful and intentional approach.
Martin’s tips for jobseekers:
- Read job descriptions carefully: Make sure the role aligns with your skills and experience before applying.
- Customize within reason: Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your most relevant qualifications but remain authentic. Employers value a genuine resume that reflects your real experience, even if it doesn’t match 100% of the criteria, over a CV that feels overly tailored by AI tools.
- Limit the number of applications: Focus on roles that align with your goals. Instead of tailoring your CV for every job, spend time reaching out directly to recruiters or hiring managers to showcase your experience and interest in the role. This personal touch can make your application stand out.
- Network actively: Use professional networks like LinkedIn to connect with industry contacts and hiring managers directly.
- Follow up: If you haven’t heard back, a polite follow-up can keep you top of mind for employers.
For employers, adapting to the growing volume of applications is crucial. Having a hiring professional, whether internal or external, who not only carefully reviews applications but also proactively reaches out to the right candidates and manages their experience, ensures you have a shortlist that perfectly aligns with your needs. This approach streamlines the hiring process and helps you to secure the top talent that fits your requirements.
ENDS
For media enquiries contact:
Georgia Peglar
Senior Marketing Executive, Robert Walters Canada
E: georgia.peglar@robertwalters.com
