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Partnering with SME companies throughout East Anglia, Michelle Denny Recruitment is a recruitment agency which specialises in personalised recruitment consultancy services in Norfolk and Suffolk to help you discover that elusive new member of staff at a budget that suits you.

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With different campaign options to meet your requirements and innovative marketing strategies to captivate worthy candidates, we'll present you with a refreshing, no-fuss approach to recruitment. Whether you need a comprehensive recruitment drive with full support, or a simple campaign to find you candidates to review in-house, we'll work with you as an extension of your team, to understand your business and the people within it. 

Clients

THIS WAY TO HIRE

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We'll introduce you to companies with job opportunities across Norfolk, Suffolk and beyond that share your values and understand your career aspirations so you can feel confident in your job search. With guidance, support, constructive feedback and consistent communication as standard throughout our approach, Michelle Denny Recruitment Consultancy looks beyond your CV to discover what makes you, you!

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With a clear direction, straightforward application process and ongoing recommendations, we’ll provide you with the ultimate match-making service to help you find the right job, in the right company, with the right team. Learn more, view our current vacancies and upload your CV to register for upcoming roles too.

Candidates

THIS WAY TO A NEW JOB

Job Hunting in a Competitive Market: Where to Start - Part two of our candidate support series.

  • Michelle Denny
  • Apr 8
  • 4 min read

So, where to Start?


In last week’s blog, we talked about taking control of your career in 2025. Now that you’ve taken the time to reflect on your goals and where you want your career to go, it’s time to get practical. If you’re looking to change roles or land that next opportunity, you’ve probably noticed that the job market is more competitive than ever. So, where do you start?


Job hunting can feel overwhelming, especially when it seems like everyone is vying for the same positions. But the key to success in this competitive landscape isn’t about casting a wide net or rushing to send out as many applications as possible. It’s about getting clear, being strategic, and approaching the process with focus. Here’s how you can make your next career move with confidence.



1. Start with Clarity – Know Exactly What You Want


When you’re in a competitive job market, the first step is knowing what you're truly looking for. Last week, we discussed how understanding your career goals is essential. Now is the time to really define them. This is about more than just finding any job; it’s about finding the right job for you. Here’s how you can start:


  • Reflect on your values:

    What kind of company culture do you thrive in? Do you want flexibility? A fast-paced environment? A team-focused culture?


  • Know your non-negotiables:

    What are the must-haves in your next role? Is it a specific salary range, career development opportunities, or location?


  • Think about your long-term growth:

    What role can help you get closer to your overall career goals? Whether that’s building a new skillset, taking on leadership responsibilities, or working for a company that aligns with your values, it’s important to know what you’re aiming for.


The clearer you are on what you want, the easier it will be to make decisions and avoid getting distracted by roles that aren’t quite right for you.



2. Tailor Your CV – One Size Doesn’t Fit All


Now that you know what you want, it’s time to make sure your CV reflects that. A well-tailored CV is essential for standing out in a crowded market. Here’s how to make yours shine:

Focus on relevancy:

Customise your CV for each role you apply to, highlighting the skills and experience most relevant to that particular job.

Highlight accomplishments, not just duties:

Instead of just listing what you did, show how you made an impact. Did you increase sales? Streamline processes? Improve team productivity? Use numbers wherever possible to give your achievements weight.

Use the right keywords:

Be sure your CV includes industry-specific keywords so that it’s more likely to get seen by the right people.


Taking the time to tailor your CV to each job will not only help you stand out but also make sure your application resonates with the hiring manager.



3. Craft Your Cover Letter – Personalise It


While your CV does the heavy lifting of outlining your experience, your cover letter is your opportunity to demonstrate why you’re the perfect fit for the role. A generic cover letter won’t get you far, so here’s how to make it stand out:


  • Personalise it:

    Address the hiring manager by name if possible and mention the specific role you’re applying for.


  • Show your enthusiasm:

    Employers want to know why you're interested in this opportunity, so explain why the company and role caught your eye. Share what you admire about their work and how your skills align with their needs.


  • Highlight the value you bring:

    Focus on what you can contribute to the company. What’s your unique selling point? How can your skills and experience help solve their challenges?


Additionally, a tailored, thoughtful cover letter shows that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the position.



4. Leverage Your Network – Your Next Job Could Be One Conversation Away


In a competitive job market, networking can be one of the most effective tools in your job search. It’s not just about who you know; it’s about who knows you and what you can do. So, take time to nurture your network:


  • Reach out to people you know:

    Let colleagues, mentors, or industry peers know that you're looking for your next role. Even if they don’t have a job for you, they might know someone who does.


  • Engage on LinkedIn:

    Stay active on LinkedIn, connect with people in your industry, and join relevant groups. Share insights, comment on posts, and offer your expertise to build visibility and trust within your network.


  • Attend industry events: Networking events are a great way to connect with people and get insider knowledge about job openings that might not be posted online.


Networking can open doors that would otherwise remain closed, so don’t shy away from making connections.

 


5. Prepare for Interviews – We can’t emphasis this enough!


Once you’ve secured an interview, it’s time to prove that you’re the right fit for the job. Preparation is key. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:


  • Research the company:

    Go beyond the basics. Understand their culture, values, and any recent developments. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission and challenges.


  • Practice your responses:

    While you can’t predict every question, you can prepare for the most common ones. Practice speaking confidently about your achievements and how they relate to the role you're applying for.


  • Ask insightful questions:

    Don’t just ask about salary or benefits, ask about the team dynamic, growth opportunities, and challenges the company is facing. This shows you’re thinking about the long-term fit, not just the immediate role.


Your preparation will not only help you feel confident but will also demonstrate to the employer that you’re genuinely interested in the role and the company.



6. Stay Focused and Keep Going


Finally, remember, job hunting in a competitive market takes time and tenacity. If you’ve been refining your CV, tailoring your applications, and preparing well for interviews, you're already on the right track. Setbacks are part of the journey, not a reflection of your potential.


But you don’t have to do it all alone.


Working with a consultancy like Michelle Denny Recruitment can make a world of difference. We offer guidance, insight, and connections that go beyond job boards -

helping you identify the right opportunities, position yourself effectively, and make every move count.


Call the team on 01379 779 829 or simply upload your CV here:



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