How Long Do Recruiters Spend on a CV?

Answer: Recruiters spend 10–30 seconds on an initial CV review. They look for clarity, relevance, and measurable achievements.

Actionable Tips:

• Use a clean, easy-to-read layout.
• Put your most relevant experience at the top.
• Include specific achievements with numbers (e.g., “Led 5 multi-residential projects, improving efficiency by 20%”).

What Are Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) Looking For?

Answer: ATS scans for keywords, skills, qualifications, and job titles relevant to the role.

Actionable Tips:

• Mirror the job description language naturally in your CV.
• Avoid putting important info in headers or footers.
• Use standard file formats like .docx or PDF.

Do Cover Letters Still Matter?

Answer: Yes. A cover letter shows attention to detail, genuine interest, and culture fit.

Actionable Tips:

• Address the hiring manager by name if possible.
• Explain why you’re excited about the role.
• Keep it concise (one page) and relevant.

How Should You Follow Up After Applying?

Answer: Follow-up emails should be polite, professional, and timely. Overdoing it can hurt your chances.

Actionable Tips:

• Wait 7–10 days before following up.
• Keep emails short and professional.
• Respect recruiter instructions regarding follow-ups.

How Are Hiring Decisions Really Made?

Answer: Hiring decisions involve more than just qualifications. Recruiters consider:

• Culture fit
• Growth potential
• Team dynamics

Actionable Tips:

• Research the company and highlight value alignment.
• Be authentic in interviews.
• Ask thoughtful questions to show engagement.

Common CV Mistakes Candidates Don’t Know

Answer: Recruiters often notice:

• Typos or inconsistent formatting
• Listing irrelevant experience
• Using vague language like “responsible for” instead of measurable results

Actionable Tips:

• Tailor your CV for each job.
• Use action verbs and numbers to show impact.
• Have someone else proofread your CV.



Contact the Team

Need help with your career? Get in touch with our guys to help you out.

Nicholas Koop, Principal Recruitment Consultant, Engineering & Planning - 📲 0426 180 254 📧 nick@vividrecruitment.com.au

Lee Stevens, Principal Recruitment Consultant, Architecture & Design - 📲 0406 470 020 📧 lee@vividrecruitment.com.au

You can also connect with Lee on LinkedIn and Nick on LinkedIn or follow the Vivid Recruitment LinkedIn page for more industry insights, news, jobs and general chit chat and tips!

Vivid Recruitment -  Your specialist partner in:

Architecture & Interior Design Recruitment | Urban Design & Planning Recruitment | Mechanical Engineering Recruitment | Electrical Engineering Recruitment | Structural Engineering Recruitment | Civil Engineering Recruitment | Acoustic Engineering Recruitment | Hydraulic Engineering Recruitment | ESD / Sustainability Engineering Recruitment | Fire Engineering Recruitment

FAQ: Job Seeker Questions Answered by Recruiters

Q1: Should I tailor my CV for every job?
A1: Yes. Customisation improves ATS results and makes your CV more relevant to recruiters.

Q2: How long does a recruiter spend reviewing my CV?
A2: Typically 10–30 seconds. Highlight your key achievements immediately.

Q3: Can I follow up after submitting an application?
A3: Yes, after 7–10 days. Keep it polite and concise.

Q4: What do recruiters look for in a cover letter?
A4: They look for clarity, relevance, genuine interest, and alignment with company values.

Q5: Do keywords really matter in my CV?
A5: Absolutely. ATS and recruiters scan for role-relevant keywords in context.

Q6: Should I include all my past jobs?
A6: No. Include only roles relevant to the position.

Q7: How important is cultural fit?
A7: Very. Recruiters prioritise candidates who complement the team and show growth potential.

Pro Tip: Job hunting isn’t just about qualifications—it’s about presenting them in a way recruiters understand and remember. Implement these tips, and you’ll stand out in a crowded job market.