The New Year usually brings fresh energy with it in the form of new goals, new priorities, and for many, a new chapter in their career. The only thing is, you’re often up against candidates with similar qualifications, experience, and ambitions. So, how do YOU stand out?
Recruiters can receive 100+ applications for some of the roles they advertise. The truth is that the candidates who get noticed aren’t always the ones with the longest list of achievements. They’re the ones who present their strengths clearly, confidently and with purpose.
Here are our top tips for how you can be the one to stand out in 2026.
Tailor your CV for the role that you are applying for
We promise you… we can spot AI and copy-and-paste from a mile away so please don’t do this. We can tell when candidates have just reverse-engineered a Job Description into their current role. Show that this role matters to you by:
- Highlighting relevant experience and making less of the experience that is not so relevant to the role that you are applying for, cut out the waffle
- Look at key deliverables and competencies on the JD, have you included what they are asking for on your CV (so long as it is truthful)
- Demonstrate outcomes, not just responsibilities e.g. instead of “Responsible for mortgage applications” try: “Reviewed and processed 20–30 mortgage applications weekly with 98% accuracy, supporting excellent customer outcomes”
Focus on value you can add
Think beyond what you did… to what you achieved, be as specific as you can:
- Improved processes, saving 30% processing time
- Strengthened customer relationships, leading to a 20% decline in complaints
- Reviewed lending product strategy resulting in a 15% rise in applications
These are the results that make employers excited to speak to you. Try including a short section on Key Recent Achievements, just adding 3 bullet points here can make a huge impact.
Walk In Ready: An engaging and motivated attitude will work wonders
Walking into an interview focused only on technical questions is unlikely to land you the role. Employers want to work with people who genuinely want to be there—technical skills can be taught..
So go in knowing:
- Why you want to work for that organisation, show the research beyond just their website
- How your strengths support their goals
- The culture you are looking for in an employer and why they match that
A confident, authentic candidate is a memorable one.
Let’s Make 2026 YOUR Year
If you’re ready to step into a new role that excites you and matches your skillset, be that person who stands out in 2026!