I've spent 30 years in recruitment - this is how to get a job

If you've sent off dozens of job applications and heard nothing back, the silence can be as infuriating as a rejection.

Part of the problem is the shrinking number of entry-level jobs. Reed, the recruitment firm, says that graduate vacancies on its website have fallen from around 180,000 three or four years ago to 50,000.

James Reed, chair and chief executive of Reed, has spent 30 years watching how employers make decisions and, like many, is frustrated at how difficult the process has become.

Here, the recruitment veteran gives some pointers on how to get noticed in a tough jobs market.

Many employers use artificial intelligence (AI) systems to screen applications before a human lays eyes on them.

But if AI is being used, Reed suggests it is probably comparing the job description with your CV or cover letter so you should "try and mirror the job description with your skills and experience".

That doesn't mean pretending to have skills you do not have. "It's really important you don't lie," says Reed, but if the job asks for communication, organisation or customer service, make sure your application clearly shows where you have done those things.

It is one of the most frustrating parts of job-hunting: being told you need experience for an entry-level role.

Reed says the problem is worse at the moment because employers are hiring less, so often look for candidates who already have some know-how.

He advises building experience wherever possible - "even if it's temporary, casual or part-time" - through work, volunteering, community projects or free online training, such as Anthropic's AI academy.

If you get in front of an employer (and are feeling brave) it can be worth making the point directly: "Someone gave you your first opportunity, that's all I'm looking for."

Reed is not against using AI to help with applications as it's a "wonderful tool" that cam improve your application.