I was applying for hundreds of jobs – this tip helped me get one

I was applying for hundreds of jobs - this tip helped me get one

I was applying for hundreds of jobs - Securing a first job in today’s competitive market can feel like a daunting task. With limited entry-level opportunities and the rise of AI-driven applications, both job seekers and employers often struggle to find the right fit. Yet, some individuals have managed to break through by adopting unconventional strategies. Four people who overcame the challenge of submitting countless applications with few responses shared the unique approach that led to their success.

Theresa Blair: Tailoring Her Approach

Theresa Blair, 24, from Birmingham, initially pursued a pharmacy masters at Aston University, graduating in 2025. However, after a project management placement, she shifted her focus to that field. For eight months, she sent out numerous job applications, often without hearing back. "I realized my CVs were too generic," she explains. "That made it harder to differentiate myself from other candidates." She began customizing her documents to align with each company’s values and highlighted relevant skills in her applications. "It’s about linking your experiences directly to the role," she says. By narrowing her focus and dedicating more time to each application, Theresa landed a full-time position at a bank customer service call centre. Now, she works as a project manager, commuting three days a week to London. "The commute is long, but the experience at a reputable firm is worth it," she notes. Her advice to others is to remain persistent: "Keep applying, even when it feels tough. The effort you put in will eventually be noticed."

Callum Stevens: Leveraging Networking

Callum Stevens, 24, from Somerset, studied computer science at the University of the West of England (UWE) and discovered a passion for transport planning. When a transport planning internship at Bristol City Council became available, he reached out on LinkedIn to someone in the role. The opportunity returned, and he secured the position. Though he had no prior experience in the field, he believes his enthusiasm played a role. "I showed I was interested and eager to learn," he says. The internship, which is full-time and pays minimum wage, ends in August. While it may not be permanent, Callum calls it "invaluable" and says it rivals his academic achievements. He urges others to value internships: "Don’t undervalue temporary roles—they can be a stepping stone to long-term success."

Joshua Hopkins: Adding Extra Value

Joshua Hopkins, 26, from Glasgow, began his career path with a business and marketing degree in Belgium before transitioning to an apprenticeship. He now works at a law firm and is halfway through a three-year Chartered Institute of Management Accountants program to become a chartered accountant. During a gap between jobs, he joined a housing association board, which gave him a chance to demonstrate his potential. "This experience showed employers that young people can offer fresh ideas and solve problems they might overlook," he says. Joshua emphasizes the importance of taking any opportunity to showcase your strengths. "Get involved in causes you care about or take short courses to build relevant skills," he adds. "Proactivity often leads to unexpected progress."

Clover Nelson: Going the Extra Mile

Clover Nelson, 20, from Leeds, spent three years unemployed before landing a retail job. "I applied online extensively, but rarely got responses," he recalls. Frustrated, he decided to try a different method: visiting stores in person to speak with managers. "That’s what got me the job," he says. Clover’s advice is simple yet effective: "Look for roles in shop windows and engage directly. The human touch can make all the difference." His experience highlights how personal interaction can sometimes outperform digital applications.

Katherine Leopold, Faculty Employability Lead Tutor at Greenwich Business School, has offered her top tips for job applications. Additional reporting from Kris Bramwell, Andree Massiah, and Rozina Sini.