How to stand out in a more selective job market

It’s no secret, the current UK job market is different to how it was a few years ago. Recent data indicates that the UK job market is becoming increasingly competitive. As of February to April 2025, the estimated number of job vacancies fell by 42,000 (5.3%) to 761,000, marking the 34th consecutive quarterly decline. Additionally, the unemployment rate rose to 4.5%, the highest since August 2021. However, employers are hiring, but they’re far more selective. Caution is driving decision-making. Budgets are tight. Expectations are higher. So how do you, as a candidate, break through the noise and land the role that aligns with your skills and ambitions?

Having worked closely with candidates and hiring managers across sectors, we’ve seen what works (and what doesn’t) in a more competitive landscape. Here’s ways to stand out in today’s job market.

1. Caution doesn’t mean closed doors, but your CV needs to work harder

Hiring hasn’t stopped. It’s just become more intentional. With the number of unemployed people per vacancy increasing to 2.1 in early 2025 from 1.9 in the previous quarter, it's evident that competition for roles has intensified. This underscores the importance of a CV that clearly demonstrates your value and impact. That means your CV can’t be a list of responsibilities anymore. It needs to tell a sharp, value-driven story about what you’ve delivered, and why it mattered.

What hiring managers want to see:

• Impact. Instead of “Managed a team of 5,” try “Led a team of 5 to reduce customer response times by 28%.”
• Context. Frame your achievements - “during a restructure,” “under budget constraints,” or “while onboarding a new CRM system.”
• Clarity. No fluff. No jargon. Your CV should be a high-impact document, not a treasure map.

If your CV doesn’t immediately answer the question “Why should we hire you?”, it’s time for a refresh.

2. Be proactive, but personal

Gone are the days of sending out a generic cover letter and hoping for the best. If you’re reaching out to a company or a hiring manager directly, make it count. In a market where job postings have declined below pre-pandemic levels, being proactive and personal in your approach can set you apart. Tailoring your communications to reflect genuine interest and understanding of a company's recent projects or challenges can make a significant difference.

Our best tip? Show you’ve done your homework.

Reference a recent project they’ve completed, a shift in their strategy, or a shared connection. Make it clear why this company, this team, and this role interests you.

Even a short, well-targeted LinkedIn message can make a bigger impact than a long, templated email.

3. You’re interviewing them too

In a more selective market, interviews are a two-way street. Companies are cautious about who they hire, and you should be equally thoughtful about where you go next.

We advise candidates to come prepared with questions like:

• “How has your business adapted to market changes this year?”
• “What does success look like in this role six months from now?”
• “How do you support career progression in tighter economic conditions?”

Not only do these show insight and preparation, but they also help you assess whether this is the right move.

4. Use your recruiter as a strategic partner

The most successful candidates we work with don’t treat their recruiter like a middleman. They treat them like a partner, and use the relationship to gain an edge.

A good recruiter will:

• Give you inside knowledge on the role and hiring manager
• Help shape your CV and interview approach
• Flag opportunities that align with your long-term goals, not just your current job title

If you’re not getting that level of support, it’s time to find someone who can offer it.

The market might be selective but you can be too

Yes, employers are more cautious. But that doesn’t mean you have to accept less. Now is the time to be sharp, selective, and strategic.

Stand out by showing your value, being intentional in your search, and asking the right questions. It’s not about applying harder, it’s about applying smarter.

And remember: even in cautious times, companies still need great people. Make sure they see why you’re one of them. For more advice, speak with our specialist recruiters.