Job Search Advice Straight from Recruiters and Hiring Managers

The rules of jobseeking have shifted. Here’s what recruiters and hiring managers say actually matters right now.

The job market is rough right now. Applications pile up, rejections are common, and ghosting feels like the norm. But people are still getting hired.

Instead of listening to recycled tips from random content creators, we asked the people making the decisions (recruiters and hiring managers) for the one piece of advice they’d give jobseekers right now.

Here’s what they shared:

Keep your resume fresh and accessible

Recruiters see outdated resumes all the time, and nothing makes it harder to evaluate you than missing or stale info. Your resume should highlight your most recent role and results, not just old job duties. Make sure your phone number and email are correct, set up a voicemail that actually works, and check your spam folder. You’d be surprised how often the little details make or break whether a recruiter can reach you.

Don’t self-eliminate

A lot of people talk themselves out of applying because they don’t meet every requirement in the job description. The truth is most job descriptions are wish lists. If you meet most of the requirements and you’re confident you can pick up the rest, apply. Hiring managers are often looking for someone who’s adaptable and willing to grow. Let them decide if you’re a fit.

Stay consistent

Job searching isn’t about short bursts of effort. Sending out a pile of applications one week and then going silent the next won’t build momentum. The people who get hired keep a steady rhythm of applying, networking, and following up. That consistency helps keep things moving and makes the highs and lows easier to handle.

Show how you’re different

In this market, you need to show what makes you stand out. Recruiters and managers want clear evidence of the value you bring. Think about where you’ve saved money, improved processes, led projects, or driven results. Share those stories in your resume and interviews. They don’t need to be flashy, they just need to prove you can make an impact.

Focus on quality over quantity

Blasting out your resume everywhere isn’t a strategy. Recruiters notice when you apply to everything under the sun. Instead, put your energy into roles that are a strong fit and tailor your application to them. Ten thoughtful applications will get you further than a hundred random ones.

Apply directly

Job boards are fine for research, but applying on a company’s career site is almost always better. Direct applicants go straight into the ATS, which means recruiters can see them right away. Some companies even give preference to people who apply directly, assuming they’re more serious about the role.

Follow up and stay organized

Submitting an application isn’t the finish line. Follow up when you can—especially for roles you’re excited about. Keep a simple spreadsheet of where you’ve applied, who you’ve spoken with, and any follow-ups you’ve made. It keeps you on track and makes the process feel a little less overwhelming.

Take every interview

If a company wants to interview you, go. Even if the role isn’t perfect, it’s practice. You’ll get sharper, expand your network, and maybe uncover opportunities you didn’t expect. The more you interview, the more confident you’ll be when the right job comes along.

Tailor your resume

Resumes aren’t one-size-fits-all anymore. You don’t need to rewrite the whole thing for every job, but you should make small tweaks. Put the most relevant experience at the top, use keywords from the posting, and highlight projects that connect with the role. Those adjustments help recruiters quickly see why you’re a good fit.

Quantify your results

Buzzwords like “results-driven” don’t cut it. Show the numbers. Did you increase revenue, save money, or reduce processing time? Even estimates help recruiters understand the scale of your impact. Numbers add context and prove you’re not just saying you delivered results—you can back it up.

Be patient and stay focused

Hiring is slower right now. Recruiters are stretched thin and teams are lean. That means you’ll likely deal with ghosting, long waits, and plenty of rejection. It’s not about you, it’s just the market. Stay patient, keep applying, and don’t let the process knock you off track.

Build real connections

Blind applying to hundreds of jobs rarely works. Take time to learn about companies, understand their roles, and make real connections when you can. Referrals and conversations still matter a ton. Even if it doesn’t lead to a job right away, the relationships you build now often pay off later.

Know the compensation

If a salary range is posted, pay attention. If it doesn’t line up with what you need, don’t apply hoping you can negotiate a big bump later. Companies rarely move far beyond the posted range. It’s better to focus on roles where the pay works for you from the start.

Treat it like sales

One recruiter compared the job search to sales, and they’re right. Build a target list of companies, keep a pipeline of opportunities, and be intentional about outreach. Applications are just one channel. Networking, referrals, and conversations are what keep your search moving forward.

Final thoughts

There’s no magic trick. This market is tough, and yes, luck and timing play a role. But if you stay consistent, tailor your approach, and show the value you bring, you’ll be in a much stronger position than just firing off resumes and hoping for the best.

Want more strategies from people actually on the hiring front lines? Check out our resources: https://www.karpiakconsulting.com/career-services