When you’re job hunting as a graduate, it’s tempting to apply for everything. You’ve got the degree, the ambition, and the CV ready to go, so why not fire off 50 applications and hope something sticks?
Here’s the catch: when it comes to graduate job hunting, more isn’t always better. In fact, applying for fewer, more targeted roles could actually help you land a job faster and here’s why.
Employers can spot a generic application from a mile off. If your CV and cover letter feel copied, vague, or unrelated to the job, it won’t make the shortlist. But if you take the time to tailor your application, highlighting the specific skills they’ve asked for, showing genuine interest in the company, and aligning your experience, it’s far more likely to get noticed.
A well-crafted application shows you care. It also shows that you’ve done your research, thought about why you want the role, and are genuinely interested, not just hitting “apply” on anything with a salary.
When you’re applying to fewer roles, you have more time to:
Research the company culture and mission
Customise your CV and cover letter to match the job description
Practice for potential interviews or assessment tasks
Connect with employees on LinkedIn to gain insight or advice
This level of preparation can make all the difference when you’re one of dozens, or even hundreds, of candidates.
Job hunting can be mentally exhausting. If you’re applying for anything and everything, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and demotivated, especially if you keep getting rejections or no response at all.
By being more selective, you can stay focused on roles that genuinely excite you. That energy and enthusiasm will come across in your application and interviews, and employers love to see that.
Sometimes, when graduates apply for any job that will have them, they end up in roles that don’t suit them, and leave within a few months.
By being intentional and applying only to roles that align with your skills, interests, and values, you’re more likely to land a job where you can actually thrive, not just survive.
With a focused job search, each application becomes a learning opportunity. You’ll naturally start spotting patterns in job descriptions, understanding what different employers value, and getting better at writing about your strengths.
If you’re applying to too many jobs, you’re less likely to reflect, adapt, and improve. Fewer, more meaningful applications = faster growth.
It’s easy to believe that applying for more jobs increases your chances, but the real secret is applying smarter, not harder. Being selective, strategic, and intentional can help you stand out from the crowd and ultimately land the job that’s right for you.
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