This text was written by Aicha Manai, CEO of Startup Refugees, and originally published on her LinkedIn profile. We repost the text to Think Africa’s blog with Aicha’s permission.

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There are over 300 000 unemployed jobseekers in Finland right now and fewer than 60 000 open jobs. Not the best statistics!

We see the struggle every day as we work with jobseekers and employers across Finland: reading applications, supporting candidates, facilitating hiring and currently on the lookout for a hire ourselves. YES, there is a hidden job market. Roles are shared through networks or filled internally. But even factoring that in, the imbalance is real. However; some common, patterns keep showing up in applications that may be hindering progress. (Could do a whole other post about the employer's side in vague communication and unrealistic expectations). 😅 But here are a few observations of what to avoid while hunting for a job:

☎️ Calling without purpose: Calling is fine, but have a reason. “Can you tell me more about the job?” doesn’t really cut it. Also, let the person on the other line at least say hello before launching into your pitch. A thoughtful application is better than a pointless call!

📄 Sending the same CV and cover letter everywhere: People can tell. Especially when the wrong job title or “Insert company name” slips in. Take five minutes to tailor it. That effort builds trust.

📚 Listing every job ever: A four-page CV is too much. Leave out the summer gigs from 2009. Focus on what is relevant and make it easy for recruiters to see.

💬 Leaving out the “why”: Especially if you are applying to a mission-driven organization, tell them what drives you.

❓ Asking questions already answered in the ad: Before messaging, double-check. Questions like “Where is the job located?” or “How do I apply?” are usually covered and if not, that is definitely a red flag.

🔎 “Can you check if I’m a fit?”: We hear this a lot. And I get it. But companies cannot pre-screen everyone. If you are unsure, apply. Tell openly what you bring and where you are still learning. That is enough.

📝 Details matter: Label attachments clearly. Make sure links work. Spell the organization’s name right. Small things show care or the lack of it.

🌐 Applying without understanding the organization: Applications where it is clear the applicant has not taken even a moment to learn what the job is about are the hardest to accept. Try to show that you have at least glanced at the website and mission.

This is not about perfection. It is about intention, effort, and respect for the process and for those reading your application.

Disclaimer: I have rushed applications, hit send too soon, applied for positions that are in no way aligned with my competencies and stumbled and fumbled all over the place! So been there and done that!

Recruiters want you to succeed and most should know it is exhausting to keep trying. But please, keep going and learning. Take breaks and ask for support. And most importantly, do not lose sight of your value!

📸 : Tahere Yousefi, our Community Leader at a recruitment event with Eezy.