How to Get More Interviews in a Tough Market: Strategies UK Job Seekers Are Missing

The UK job market in 2025 is becoming increasingly competitive. With fewer advertised vacancies, higher application volumes, and employers being more selective, many job seekers are finding it difficult to secure interview calls despite having strong experience or relevant qualifications.

But the truth is this. It is not always your skills that are the barrier. It is your strategy.Most job seekers are missing crucial steps that can dramatically improve interview chances, especially in a tough market like today’s.

Here are the key strategies UK candidates are overlooking and how you can start getting more interviews immediately.

1.Optimising Your CV for ATS Is No Longer Optional

Most UK employers now use Applicant Tracking Systems to filter CVs long before a human sees them.If your CV does not match the job description keywords, formatting rules, and structure, it may never reach a recruiter.

Common mistakes candidates make: Using templates with graphics or columns that ATS software cannot readNot including enough role specific keywords Focusing on responsibilities rather than achievements Sending the same CV for every application

The fix is simple. Use clean formatting, include important keywords, quantify your impact, and tailor your CV for each role. Careersted transforms your CV into an ATS optimised version with a match rate above 95 percent, ensuring you pass early filters and get seen by employers.

2.LinkedIn Matters More Than Ever but Most Profiles Are Incomplete

LinkedIn is now one of the most powerful tools in the UK hiring process.Recruiters search for candidates using keywords Companies view your LinkedIn profile even before interviews. Many roles are filled through LinkedIn before ever being advertised, yet most job seekers still have incomplete profiles and weak headlines, with little evidence of achievements or skills. Careersted optimises your entire LinkedIn profile so you rank higher in recruiter searches, reflect your strengths, and attract more opportunities.

3.Only Applying Through Job Boards Is a Major Limitation

Applying only through Indeed, Reed or LinkedIn Jobs means you are competing with hundreds of applicants per listing. You are also only seeing a small percentage of available vacancies. Many roles are filled through direct company applications, referrals, internal recruitment, networking, and private talent pools. Careersted helps you reach hiring managers directly, increasing your visibility and reducing competition.

4. Not Highlighting Transferable Skills

Employers in a tight market value candidates who show flexibility, problem solving, communication, adaptability, and stakeholder management.Many CVs only list technical skills and fail to demonstrate real outcomes. Careersted ensures your CV highlights:

• Transferable skills

• Achievements and measurable outcomes

• Business impact

• Problem solving examples

• Teamwork and leadership strengths

These elements make you a stronger and more competitive applicant.

5. Lack of a Structured Weekly Job Search Strategy

Applying randomly or without a plan leads to slow results. You need a consistent and structured routine.

A strong weekly job search strategy includes: • Tailored applications • ATS optimised CV versions • LinkedIn networking and outreach • Engagement with recruiters and hiring teams • A target company list • Interview preparation • Ongoing skill development and certifications

Careersted supports you with: • Weekly application guidance • Progress tracking • Adjustments to your job search strategy based on market response

6. Ignoring Certifications and Skill Development

Certifications now play an important role in how UK employers shortlist candidates, especially in IT, data, cloud, and business roles.

Examples of valuable certifications include: • AWS Cloud Practitioner • Azure Fundamentals • Google Analytics • Power BI • ITIL Foundation • PRINCE2 • Cyber Security Essentials • HR analytics programmes

Many job seekers find it difficult to decide which certifications are worth pursuing.

Careersted guides you on: • The right certifications for your field • The correct order to complete them • How to prioritise certifications based on your target roles • How to present them effectively on your CV and LinkedIn

7. Not Preparing for Interviews the Right Way

Even when candidates secure interviews, many struggle with competency based answers, technical questions, communication, and confidence.Interview preparation is a skill that can be learned.

Careersted provides personalised interview coaching that helps you: • Deliver strong and structured answers • Build confidence and clarity • Understand role specific expectations • Significantly increase your chances of receiving an offer

Final Thoughts: The Market Is Tough, but Your Strategy Can Be Stronger

The UK job market is challenging, but the right approach can transform your results.Most job seekers are not rejected due to lack of skill. They are rejected because their strategy is outdated.

Careersted specialises in: • CV optimisation for ATS • LinkedIn enhancement • Targeted role applications • Weekly job search support • Certification guidance • Interview preparation • Market aligned career planning

If you want more interview calls, stronger visibility, and faster results, Careersted is here to support you every step of the way.