5 Job Application Mistakes Killing Your Chances

Most job applications fail. Not because candidates aren’t qualified, but because of avoidable mistakes that get them filtered out before anyone reviews their credentials.

Here are the five biggest mistakes — and how to fix them.

1. Using the Same CV for Every Application

This is the #1 killer. When you send a generic CV, you’re hoping the recruiter will connect your experience to their requirements. They won’t. They don’t have time.

The fix: Tailor your CV for each role. Match keywords, reorder experience, customize your summary.

2. Ignoring the ATS

Most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems to filter applications. If your CV isn’t formatted correctly or doesn’t include the right keywords, it never reaches a human.

The fix: Use clean formatting (avoid tables, headers, graphics). Include keywords from the job description naturally throughout your CV.

3. Writing a Generic Cover Letter

“I am excited to apply for the [position] role at [company]” — if your cover letter could apply to any company, it’s not doing its job.

The fix: Reference specific aspects of the company and role. Explain why you want THIS job, not just A job.

4. Not Quantifying Achievements

“Managed a team” means nothing. “Managed a team of 8, delivering projects 20% under budget” tells a story.

The fix: Add numbers wherever possible. Revenue, percentages, team sizes, timeframes.

5. Skipping Interview Preparation

Getting an interview is only half the battle. Showing up without practicing is like taking an exam without studying.

The fix: Research the company, prepare answers to common questions, and practice out loud.

The Common Thread

All these mistakes share one root cause: treating job applications as a numbers game rather than a targeting exercise.

Quality beats quantity. Five tailored applications will outperform fifty generic ones.

Fix All of This In One Place

Kuji helps you avoid all these mistakes. Upload a job description, get a tailored CV and cover letter, then practice the interview — all in one workflow.

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