If you’ve ever sent out dozens of job applications and heard absolutely nothing back, you’re not alone. Being ghosted during a job search is one of the most frustrating—and unfortunately common—experiences for jobseekers. You’re left wondering: Was it my CV? Did I say the wrong thing in the interview? Was I even considered?

The truth is, getting ghosted doesn’t mean you’re not talented or employable. It means your current strategy might not be working as effectively as it should. In today’s competitive job market, where hiring managers are inundated with applications, you need more than just a good CV—you need a strategy that gets you noticed.

Here’s how to fix your job hunt and go from ghosted to hired.

1. Re-Evaluate Your CV: Is It Doing You Justice?

Your CV is your first impression, and it has about 6–10 seconds to impress a recruiter. If you’re not getting callbacks, your CV might be the problem.

Fix it:

• Keep it concise and relevant (no more than 2 pages).
  
• Use keywords from the job description—many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter applications.
  
• Showcase achievements with results (e.g., “Increased sales by 20% in 3 months”).
  
• Avoid clichés like “hardworking” and “go-getter” unless paired with proof.
  

Make your CV scannable with bullet points, consistent formatting, and clear headings. And remember: tailor it to the job. A generic CV is a fast track to the “no” pile.

2. Ditch the Spray-and-Pray Method

Applying to 50 jobs a day with the same CV and cover letter might feel productive, but it often leads to radio silence. Recruiters can smell a copy-paste job a mile away.

Fix it:

• Be intentional. Choose roles that align with your skills and interests.
  
• Tailor your application. Mention the company’s values, projects, or team culture in your cover letter.
  
• Quality over quantity always wins.
  

Your goal isn’t to apply to as many jobs as possible—it’s to land the right one with a targeted, thoughtful application.

3. Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile

Your LinkedIn profile is your digital storefront. Hiring managers and recruiters often look you up even before reading your CV.

Fix it:

• Use a professional photo and write a clear, keyword-rich headline (e.g., “Experienced Digital Marketing Specialist | SEO | Content Strategy”).
  
• Write a compelling “About” section that tells your story.
  
• List your achievements, not just your responsibilities.
  
• Turn on “Open to Work” with clear preferences.
  

Also, start engaging! Like, comment on, and share content in your industry to get noticed. Visibility leads to opportunity.

4. Build a Network, Don’t Just Apply

Many of the best jobs are filled before they’re ever posted. If your strategy is limited to job boards, you’re missing out.

Fix it:

• Connect with people in your target companies or industries.
  
• Reach out with personalised messages (not generic “Let’s connect” notes).
  
• Attend webinars, virtual career fairs, and networking events.
  
• Ask for informational interviews—not to ask for a job, but to learn more about companies and roles.
  

Building relationships puts you on the radar. And when roles open up, your name is already in the room.

5. Track and Reflect

Do you know how many jobs you’ve applied to this month? Or what feedback (if any) you’ve received? If you’re not tracking your job search, you’re shooting in the dark.

Fix it:

• Keep a spreadsheet of jobs applied to, status updates, contacts, and follow-ups.
  
• Reflect on patterns: Where are you getting stuck—CV stage, interview, final round?
  
• Use that data to refine your approach.
  

This isn’t just about organisation. It’s about treating your job hunt like a project with strategy, feedback, and improvement loops.

6. Prepare Like a Pro for Interviews

Sometimes ghosting happens after the interview—which can be even more demoralising. If this is your experience, your interview performance may need a refresh.

Fix it:

• Practice answering common questions with structure (e.g., STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result).
  
• Prepare examples of achievements.
  
• Ask smart, specific questions at the end of the interview.
  
• Show enthusiasm for the role and the company (without desperation!).
  

Confidence comes from preparation, and employers can always tell the difference.

7. Follow Up (Professionally)

You’d be surprised how many candidates don’t send a follow-up email after an interview. A short, polite message can set you apart.

Fix it:

• Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of your interview.
  
• Reinforce your interest and briefly mention something specific discussed in the interview.
  
• Keep it professional, positive, and concise.
  

Even if you don’t get the job, your follow-up might keep you in mind for future roles.

8. Stay Resilient and Positive

Job hunting can take a toll on your mental health—especially when ghosting feels personal. But the job market is dynamic, and timing plays a big role.

Fix it:

• Take breaks when needed. Burnout will only make things worse.
  
• Set daily goals (e.g., “apply to 2 roles, connect with 3 people”).
  
• Celebrate small wins: a great application sent, a new connection made, a follow-up sent.
  

Remember: not hearing back doesn’t mean you’re not good enough. It just means it wasn’t the right fit—yet.

9. Use Recruiters (Yes, Like Recruit SA)

Recruitment agencies like Recruit SA work directly with hiring companies to fill roles quickly. While you may not always see the job posting yourself, you do benefit from being matched to opportunities you might not have access to otherwise.

Fix it:

• Register with reputable agencies in your industry.
  
• Keep your CV updated and respond promptly when contacted.
  
• Be honest about your goals and availability.
  

Recruitment consultants can be powerful allies in your job search. Treat them as part of your team.

10. Keep Learning While You Wait

The job market evolves quickly. Staying stagnant is one of the quickest ways to fall behind.

Fix it:

• Use free or low-cost platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning to upskill.
  
• Focus on high-demand skills like digital marketing, data analysis, customer service, or remote collaboration tools.
  
• Add completed courses to your LinkedIn and CV.
  

Upskilling shows initiative and helps you remain competitive—even while between jobs.

You’re Closer Than You Think

Getting ghosted feels awful—but it doesn’t have to be the end of your story. With the right strategy, mindset, and consistency, you can turn silence into offers. Every application is a step closer. Every interview is practice for the right one. Every rejection is redirection.

You’re not just job hunting—you’re building the foundation for your next big opportunity. So refine your approach, stay persistent, and remember: your next “yes” might be just one smart step away.