New insights on the Australian job market have revealed a 15.3 percent decrease in job ads compared to the same period last year, while average applications have risen by 2.5 percent month-on-month (m/m) and 60 percent year-on-year (y/y).
According to SEEK’s July 2024 Employment Report, job ads rose m/m in News South Wales (2.2 percent) and Queensland (2.6 percent), but fell in Victoria (-1 percent), the Australian Capital Territory (-0.5 percent) and Tasmania (-0.5 percent).
There was significant candidate interest in government and defence jobs, where applications per job ad rose 27 percent m/m, while Queensland is experiencing demand for workers in construction, community services & development and real estate & property.
Leigh Broderick, Head of Employment Analytics at SEEK says applications per job ad have risen consistently for over two years and are very elevated compared to pre-COVID norms.
“For candidates, this means significant competition for open roles, and for hirers it means plenty of choice, and demonstrates the power of a well-defined recruitment process.”
On the back of this news, recruitment specialist Robert Walters has compiled a list of the most common mistakes candidates make during interviews, revealing that 5000 Australians search for interview tips each month.
“The increasing number of applications per job ad is a significant cause for concern,” said Shay Peters, CEO of Robert Walters Australia and New Zealand.
“Over the past year, there has been a consistent rise in applications, reaching an unprecedented peak.”
Robert Walters conducted a survey among its team of more than 400 recruitment leaders to identify the most common mistakes made by candidates that can be easily rectified.
Don’t be apathetic
It’s not uncommon to agree to an interview even if you’re not particularly excited about the job description. However, it is crucial to showcase enthusiasm from the start, as it becomes challenging to turn the interview around if you decide later that you actually want the job.
The experts urge you to think about how you are presenting yourself, especially given the current job market.
Shay says, “The job market is currently candidate heavy, providing employers with a vast pool of highly skilled individuals to choose from. As a result, emphasis is now being placed on soft skills, this includes one’s attitude and enthusiasm towards the opportunity at hand. Displaying energy and enthusiasm is essential, regardless of your qualifications. It is important for the interviewer to feel that you perceive the role as a valuable opportunity.”
Avoid negative talk
Speaking negatively about your current or previous employer is a major pitfall to avoid. While you may have negative feelings about your current workplace, it is best to refrain from being too honest about your reasons for leaving. Ending an otherwise successful interview on a negative note can come across as unprofessional.
Additionally, providing flimsy answers to the question ‘why are you looking to change jobs?’ can raise red flags. Constructing honest answers that still portray you in a positive light is key.
Shay adds, “As recruiters, we find this to be a highly irritating situation since it involves a trivial matter that candidates can effortlessly avoid. It’s truly unfortunate to jeopardise an interview due to a silly mistake like this. Employers are not keen on hearing negative remarks about your current or past position, as it raises concerns about how you might speak about them.”
Answer the questions
According to 65 percent of recruitment experts at Robert Walters, the most common feedback they receive from a client after a candidate has performed poorly in an interview is a failure to answer the questions properly and instead giving “broad and high level answers”.
Shay says, “We often observe candidates failing to demonstrate their suitability for a role by providing vague responses to questions. When interviewers ask questions, they’re looking for a response that answers the question whilst showcasing your skills and expertise. This is hard to do under pressure which is why it’s crucial to practise and prepare beforehand.”
Interviews present an opportunity to showcase yourself, and the most effective approach to achieve this is by tailoring your answers to highlight why you are the ideal candidate for the position.
Personal hygiene matters
It’s no secret that first impressions count. According to research, within the first 7 seconds the interviewer has already formed a first impression, while 71 percent of employers would not hire someone if they didn’t follow appropriate dress code.
Shay adds, “As the workplace continues to change, the discussion surrounding appropriate interview attire also evolves. In today’s society, there is a debate on whether it is best to stay authentic and dress in a manner that reflects your everyday office style, or to opt for a more formal approach. Finding a middle ground that combines authenticity and professionalism is key – aim for a smart outfit that aligns with your personal style, and one that you are likely to maintain on a regular basis in the office.”
Prior to the interview, it is essential to consider not only your physical appearance but also your personal cleanliness. Freshening up with a mint after stopping for a coffee on the way to the interview is a good idea. Similarly, avoid smoking before the interview. On the other hand, overpowering scents from aftershave or perfume can be equally off-putting for interviewers. It is recommended to have a friend check that you haven’t overdone the fragrance prior to your interview.
In today’s highly competitive job market, it is crucial to present yourself in the best possible way and maximise your chances of success.
