When people are looking for a new role, there is often a strong focus on the job itself — what it pays, where it is, what the hours are, whether it feels like the right next step. All important, of course. But before you hit “apply”, it is worth making sure you have your basics are in good order too.
We regularly receive applications from good people whose documents simply do not do them justice. An old CV, a generic cover letter, or referees who have not been warned can all take the shine off an application before the real conversation has even started. A little bit of preparation up front can make a big difference.
Start with your CV. It should be current, accurate and easy to follow. That means recent roles included, dates correct, responsibilities clear, and qualifications or tickets up to date. It does not need to be fancy, but it does need to reflect where you are now — not where you were two or five years ago. If your CV is out of date, an employer or recruiter is left filling in the gaps, and that is rarely a good starting point.
A cover letter is worth the effort too, especially when it is tailored to the role. This is your chance to explain why you are interested, why the role appeals, and what you would bring to it. It does not need to repeat your CV word for word. Instead, it should help connect the dots between your experience and the opportunity in front of you. A good cover letter shows that you have taken the time to understand the role and have a genuine reason for applying.
Referees are another area where a bit of care goes a long way. If you list someone as a referee, make sure they know you are job hunting and are happy to be contacted. It is always better for them to hear it from you first than be caught off guard by a call from a recruiter or employer. A prepared referee is usually a better referee.
And for those doing the hiring, the same principle applies: referee checks should be handled carefully and professionally. Only contact the referees the candidate has supplied, and make sure the candidate has given clear permission before any approach is made. That is not just good process — it is respectful and fair.
Then there is the interview itself. How you “turn up” matters. That does not mean being polished or perfect, but it does mean being prepared, engaged and thoughtful. Read the job ad properly. Know a bit about the business. Arrive on time. Be ready to talk clearly about your experience, what you are looking for, and why this role makes sense for you. First impressions still count, and often what stands out most is not the flashiest answer, but the person who comes across as genuine, interested and well prepared.
It is also worth doing one simple thing that many candidates forget: Google your own name. What shows up? A potential employer may do exactly the same. Sometimes the results are harmless, sometimes outdated, and sometimes they do not reflect particularly well. You may not be able to control everything online, but you can at least be aware of it. Check your social media privacy settings, remove or tidy up old public content where you can, and think about whether your online presence matches how you would want to present yourself professionally.
None of this is about creating a perfect application. It is about making sure the basics are working for you, not against you. Job searching can be competitive, and often it is the candidates who are prepared, current and thoughtful who give themselves the best chance.
If you are actively looking for a new role, taking the time to get your ducks in a row is time well spent.
