Why personalised job applications work better

Why personalised job applications work better

Because sending the same resume to every job rarely gets you results.

It’s tempting to take a “spray and pray” approach to job applications—send out the same resume and cover letter to as many roles as possible and hope something sticks. But in today’s job market, quality matters more than quantity.

If you’re applying for jobs and not hearing back, one of the biggest reasons might be that your application is too generic. Hiring managers can tell when a resume or cover letter has been copied and pasted. But when your application feels tailored and intentional, it grabs attention—for the right reasons.

Here’s why personalised job applications work so much better—and how you can start tailoring yours.

1. Employers want to feel chosen

When you apply for a job, it’s not just about your experience—it’s about showing the employer why you’re interested in their company and this role. A personalised application demonstrates that you’ve done your research, you understand what they need, and you genuinely want to work with them.

This kind of intentionality immediately makes your application stand out.

2. You can highlight the right strengths

Every role is different—even if the job titles are similar. When you tailor your resume and cover letter to a specific position, you can:

  • emphasise your most relevant experience
  • use the same keywords as the job ad
  • show how your background matches their priorities

That level of alignment helps hiring managers quickly see that you’re a strong fit.

3. ATS systems reward relevance

Most companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen applications. These systems scan for keywords that match the job ad. A generic resume may skip over critical terms, while a personalised one hits the mark and gets through the filter.

Personalising your resume isn’t just thoughtful—it’s strategic.

4. It shows that you care

Employers notice when someone puts in the extra effort. A tailored application shows that you value the opportunity, which can be the difference between getting shortlisted and being passed over.

It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for any job—you’re looking for this job.

5. It builds your confidence

Taking the time to reflect on why you’re applying, and shaping your application around your strengths, helps you feel more prepared—not just to apply, but also to interview.

When you know your resume and cover letter truly reflect your value, it boosts your confidence at every step.

How to personalise your application

  • use the job title and company name in your cover letter
  • match your language and tone to the job ad
  • adjust your summary and key skills to reflect the role
  • highlight the most relevant achievements for each application
  • keep a master resume, then create focused versions for each role

It doesn’t have to take hours. Even small tweaks can make a big difference.

Need help tailoring your application?

If you’re not sure how to personalise your resume or cover letter—or just want someone to guide you through it—I’m here to help. As a resume writer and career coach, I work one-on-one with clients to create strong, tailored job applications that lead to interviews.

Charlotte Ambrose
Energise Careers
energisecareers@gmail.com
0456 149 395