As a recruiter at Premier Group, one of the most common things I hear isn’t just about CVs, interviews, or job offers, it’s about clarity, confidence, and guidance. Job searching can be overwhelming, and candidates often have the same questions repeated time and again.
To make life a little easier, I’ve compiled a Q&A-style guide addressing the top questions we get asked by candidates, along with honest, actionable answers. Whether you’re actively looking for a new role or just curious about the recruitment process, this guide is for you.
1. How can I make my CV stand out?
This is by far the most frequently asked question. Candidates want their CV to catch the recruiter’s or hiring manager’s eye in just a few seconds and rightly so.
My advice:
- Tailor your CV for each role. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description.
- Keep it concise. Ideally, 1–2 pages with clear headings and bullet points.
- Use measurable achievements. Numbers resonate e.g., “Increased sales by 25% over 6 months.”
- Check for clarity and grammar. A CV riddled with mistakes immediately signals a lack of attention to detail.
At Premier Group, we also see candidates who underestimate the power of a well-written personal statement. A short paragraph summarizing your career goals and strengths can make a big difference.
2. What are recruiters really looking for?
A question I love because it allows me to clear up a common misconception: we’re not just looking for keywords on your CV.
Here’s what matters most:
- Relevant experience – Can you do the job effectively?
- Potential – Are you eager to learn and grow?
- Cultural fit – Will you align with the company’s values and working style?
- Professionalism – This includes punctuality, communication, and attention to detail.
At the end of the day, recruiters are your advocate, not your gatekeeper. We want to see you succeed, and that means finding the right match for both you and our clients.
3. Should I apply for a role even if I don’t meet all the criteria?
Absolutely! Many candidates hesitate because they feel they must tick every box. The truth is, job descriptions often list “ideal” criteria, not absolute requirements.
My advice:
- Apply if you meet most of the core skills and requirements.
- Highlight transferable skills and relevant experience in your application.
- Use your cover letter (or personal statement) to explain why you’re a strong fit, even if you don’t meet every point.
We’ve seen many candidates land roles despite not having 100% of the listed experience, confidence, willingness to learn, and a strong cultural fit often carry more weight than a perfect CV.
4. How can I prepare for an interview?
Interviews are one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the process, but preparation can make all the difference.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Research the company. Understand their products, services, culture, and recent news.
- Know your CV inside-out. Be ready to discuss your experience, achievements, and skills.
- Practice common questions. Think about examples from past roles where you demonstrated key competencies.
- Prepare questions for the interviewer. This shows engagement and genuine interest.
- Dress appropriately and ensure a professional, confident demeanour.
Remember, interviews are two-way streets. They’re as much about you assessing the company as they are about the company assessing you.
5. How long does the recruitment process take?
This is a question we get a lot, and the answer isn’t always straightforward, it depends on the role, the company, and sometimes even external factors like business priorities.
At Premier Group, we aim to streamline the process:
- Interview-to-placement ratio: 2:1
- Jobs-to-placement ratio: 1.43:1
- CVs-to-placement ratio: 3.57:1
These stats highlight our focus on efficiency, ensuring candidates move through the process quickly without sacrificing quality. While some roles may take a few weeks, others can be filled in days. Communication is key, so we always keep candidates informed at every stage.
6. How should I handle salary expectations?
Salary conversations are always tricky, but being prepared and realistic is crucial.
Tips:
- Research market rates for your role and industry.
- Consider your experience, skills, and qualifications when proposing a figure.
- Be open to negotiation, but know your minimum acceptable package.
- Remember that benefits, flexibility, and career progression are also valuable.
A recruiter can help manage this conversation with the client and advise you on competitive market rates, don’t shy away from asking for guidance.
7. What if I don’t hear back after applying?
It’s frustrating, and candidates often worry they’ve done something wrong.
The reality:
- High-volume applications mean it can take time to get a response.
- Sometimes roles are put on hold or the client is still deciding.
What you can do:
- Follow up politely after 1–2 weeks.
- Keep your options open and continue applying elsewhere.
- Work with a recruiter, they can advocate for you directly with the client.
8. How can I stay on a recruiter’s radar without being pushy?
Building a professional relationship with a recruiter is valuable for long-term career growth.
Pro tips:
- Keep your LinkedIn profile up-to-date.
- Send occasional updates about your experience or availability.
- Respond promptly to messages and interview requests.
- Be honest about your preferences, salary expectations, and notice period.
Recruiters remember candidates who are professional, proactive, and communicative and that often leads to better opportunities down the line.
9. What’s the biggest mistake candidates make?
If I had to pick one, it would be lack of preparation. Candidates who don’t research the company, don’t know their own CV, or can’t articulate why they’re a fit for the role often miss out, even if they have the skills.
Other common mistakes include:
- Applying for too many roles without focus.
- Ignoring follow-up emails or requests.
- Overemphasizing salary over fit.
- Being overly casual in communication.
The good news? Most mistakes are easily fixable with preparation, communication, and attention to detail.
10. How can a recruiter help me beyond just finding a job?
A great recruiter does more than submit your CV. We:
- Advise on CVs, applications, and interview prep.
- Provide insights into market trends and salaries.
- Advocate for you directly with clients.
- Offer guidance on career progression and opportunities you may not see yourself.
At Premier Group, our goal is to match talent with the right opportunity, not just fill a vacancy. That means we’re invested in your long-term success as much as the client’s.
Final Thoughts
Job searching can feel daunting but knowing what to expect can make the process far less intimidating. At Premier Group, we pride ourselves on transparency, guidance, and efficiency, helping candidates navigate the journey with confidence.
Whether you’re actively looking or just exploring options, building a relationship with a recruiter can be a game-changer. And remember, no question is too small. We get asked all of these and more every single day.
Your next opportunity could be closer than you think.
If you’re looking for advice, opportunities, or just want to chat about your career, get in touch with one of our recruiters today.
0118 902 8800
cfotheringham@pg-rec.com
