Rise in applications

Businesses have seen a 130% increase in applications in the past two years and receive an average of 120 CVs for a newly advertised vacancy. Short lists have doubled and candidates face a one in ten chance of passing the interview process. 
 
A study of of 872 businesses conducted by Studentgems.com has shown that most companies receive an average of 120 applications for each job advertised.
 
Studentgems.com conducted the research to highlight previous results that show experience is valued over qualifications. As well as qualifications, of those asked, 67% of MDs cited that hobbies and personal achievements also helped to make a more successful CV.  
 
Businesses have seen a 130% increase in responses to job advertisements, with 16% noticing a 78% increase. Due to the rise in applications, the shortlisting process has more than doubled, with an average of ten candidates being interviewed for each position.
 
The increase in applications has resulted in many university students struggling to find relevant work during their placement year as they are competing against more experienced applicants. Candidates face a one in ten chance of being hired, and endure tougher tests and questions during the interview process.  
 
‘With jobs being lost across the UK, passing the interview process is becoming much more challenging; the candidate really must ‘wow’ the employer in order to stand out against other applicants,' said co-founder of studentgems.com Sue Harrison.
 
She continues: ‘We encourage students at university and college to gain as much relevant experience as possible. Then, when the time comes for interviews, their CV is loaded with relevant evidence to show they are suitable for the position. Employers are taking great care in the interview process and ensuring they hire the right person for the job.’

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