There are some things you can do to improve your application-to-interview ratio:

1. ATS Optimization

Most companies today use an ATS (Applicant Tracking System), which is also known as the “black hole” to automatically screen resumes. Around 75% of resumes are automatically rejected by these systems.

ATS resume scanning software is designed to scan a resume for work experience, skills, education, and other relevant information. If it feels the resume is a good match for the position, it gets sent forward to the hiring manager. Those who don’t meet the qualifications are rejected and the resume is never seen by a recruiter.

2. Tailoring Your Resume

Sending out the same resume to every position is a common mistake job seekers make. You have to tailor your resume to match each job description. That doesn’t mean you need to rewrite your entire resume for each position you apply to, but you should be making tweaks and edits to better align your resume with the keywords in the job description.

You will see an improvement in your job application response rate when you start tailoring your resume. The average job seeker has a response rate of 10%-30%. If that’s not happening. It's time to start making custom resumes.

3. Start Networking

85% of jobs are filled through some sort of referral according to LinkedIn. Get active on LinkedIn and reach out to your network to see if anyone can refer you for a position in their company. If you don’t have a direct referral source, ask your network to connect you to someone they know who may be able to help you with your search. You can also go old school and call people.

Start amping up the number of networking events you attend. Connecting with new people helps you exponentially grow your network. You’re not just connecting with the people you meet at the event, you’re connecting with the people they know. Those second-tier connections will often be the key to you finding your next job opportunity. Referrals are the number one source for new hires.

4. Follow Up

Are you following up after submitting your resume? You are missing out if you’re not following up on each resume submission.

Here’s an example:

Dear Hiring Manager [include the name if you have it],

I want to reiterate my enthusiasm for the [NAME OF POSITION] role. I’m confident that my [unique attributes or skills] will bring huge value to [company]. I’m looking forward to taking the next steps. If there’s anything I can do to help the process, let me know.

Best,

[YOUR NAME]

5. Include Relevant Information

Your resume should contain information that’s relevant to the position you’re applying for. Many job seekers make the mistake of including “fluff” and other irrelevant information that often results in your resume being removed from the consideration set. The purpose of a resume is to show the hiring manager that you have the experience and skills to get this specific job done. Limit irrelevant information on your resume and stick to the experience and skills that show you’re the perfect fit for the job.

Best of luck with your job search!