Job applications typically surge in January as workers look for a fresh start. New data from CV-Library shows that applications jump by around 10 per cent on Blue Monday, falling this year 19 January, making it one of the busiest days of the year for jobseekers.
This spike reflects a wider seasonal trend – overall job applications in January are up to 72 per cent higher than in December, up 61 per cent from December 2023 to January 2024.
CV-Library's in-house Recruitment Expert, Hannah Cornish, who works closely with candidates every day, has shared five ways candidates can stand out in a competitive job market.
Cornish said: “January is typically a peak time for hiring, and the job market is already tough for job seekers with many roles attracting hundreds of applications. So, standing out is critical. But cutting through in 2026 isn't about sending more applications – it's about sending smarter, more targeted ones with a focus on how their skills deliver results.”
Five ways candidates can stand out when job hunting:
1. Focus on outcomes, not responsibilities
Use active, measurable language to show the impact you made, not just what you were responsible for. Avoid vague and generic phrases like “improved”, “led” and “managed”, and instead include numbers, results, and context – what changed because of your work, and how you made it happen.
2. Be selective, not reactive
The UK job market has become two-speed. Some sectors are still hiring and investing, while others are slowing. Rather than applying en-masse, focus your efforts on industries with momentum and tailor each application to show you understand where demand is – and how your skills fit that sector’s needs.
3. Lead with skills and behaviour
As skills-first hiring accelerates, employers are looking beyond job titles and qualifications. Jobseekers should lead with capabilities – technical skills, transferrable strengths, and behavioural traits like problem-solving and adaptability.
4. Upload your CV to jobsites
Recruiters and employers often search CV databases to proactively identify candidates, so make sure your CV, professional details or portfolio are regularly updated. A strong, up-to-date profile - with an optimised headline, summary and experience that highlight your achievements, skills, qualifications, and personality will help increase your visibility and make a stronger first impression.
5. Optimise for AI without sounding like AI
With AI now built into some hiring processes (and growing), your CV needs to be easy for technology to read. Use clear formatting, standard job titles and skills-led language that aligns with job descriptions. Avoid overly polished, generic, or obviously AI-generated phrasing easily spotted by recruiters.
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