I place the world’s top software engineers and interviewed over 10,000 job seekers. The difference on paper and in person is wider than ever

A recent LinkedIn article has highlighted the struggles that job seekers face when interviewing for software engineering roles. According to the author, who spent over a decade in recruitment before starting an AI recruitment startup, many hiring managers continue to receive poor-quality applications. The issue seems to stem from a lack of understanding of the CV and application process.

The author argues that while a CV is not entirely useless, it is not a guarantee of success. A poorly written CV can actually hurt a candidate's chances, as it gives the impression that the applicant does not understand what good work looks like. Instead, the candidate should focus on providing concrete examples of their achievements and how they contributed to their past employers' successes. Generic phrases like "I conceptualized the Q3 planning process" are ineffective and unimpressive.

Another common mistake is not following the application instructions meticulously. For instance, if a job application asks candidates to reach out to the hiring manager and explain why they would be a good fit, only 10% of applicants actually do so. This lack of effort is baffling, given that it takes little time to respond to a simple request.

Furthermore, the piece stresses the importance of showing genuine interest in the job and company. The author recommends filling out the "why do you want this job?" box in the application, as it demonstrates a commitment to the position. Additionally, applicants should complete any exercises or tasks assigned during the application process, as failing to do so may signal a lack of enthusiasm.

The article also advises job seekers to avoid applying for an excessive number of roles. Claiming to have applied for 1,000 jobs is unrealistic and counterproductive, as it wastes time and does not increase the likelihood of securing a position. Instead, candidates should focus on researching and applying for five to ten relevant roles where they meet the qualifications and are a good fit.

When preparing for an interview, the author recommends putting oneself in the hiring manager's shoes. The hiring manager may be nervous about making a bad hire, particularly in startups where the team is small and the impact of a poor decision can be significant. Therefore, applicants should approach the interview with humility and be honest about their mistakes, as this portrays them as sincere and open-minded individuals.

Lastly, the author emphasizes the significance of personal recommendations and professional networking. Recommendations from colleagues, managers, or other professionals in the field carry more weight than personal opinions, as they testify to an individual's ability to perform well in a professional setting. Building and maintaining a strong network of contacts can be instrumental in advancing one's career and securing desirable job opportunities.