Finding work: CV, applications and recruitment scams

Gather these facts

• A saved job description, employer identity and independently verified contact details.
• Examples of relevant work, study or volunteering, with results you can explain honestly.
• An application list: role, location, CV version, date, status and next follow-up.

What should I change on my CV for each role?

Mark the main tasks and essential requirements in the advert. For each, choose a real example: what you did, the method and the result. Put the most relevant evidence first and explain dates consistently. If you lack a requirement, describe related experience or a concrete learning step; do not invent employers, qualifications or numbers. A shorter targeted application is easier to assess than an unrelated list.

No replies: what can I actually improve?

Separate applications that match the essential requirements from speculative ones. Re-read a few saved adverts against the CV version you sent: was the relevant evidence easy to find, were dates clear, and did you follow the requested format? Ask a trusted reviewer about one concrete role. Keep a follow-up date where the employer gives one. A rejection or silence does not identify the cause, and no CV format guarantees an interview.

The recruiter asks for money or sensitive details—what next?

Verify the role using contact details you find independently on the employer’s official site. Pause a request to pay for a promised job, buy equipment through a named intermediary, or deposit a cheque and return money. Keep identity and bank information out of your CV. Legitimate payroll or screening may require details later, so confirm the recipient, purpose and secure channel before providing them. If you already paid or disclosed data, promptly contact the payment provider and the relevant official fraud service.

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