🎯 Interview Stats: What the Numbers Really Mean for Your Job Search
If you’re job hunting and feeling a bit worn down by the process, you’re not alone. It’s a competitive market out there, and the numbers can look a little daunting at first glance.
Only 2% of applicants are selected for interview. Over 50% of candidates are rejected after the first stage. And the average interview process? It lasts just under a month.
So, how do you stay motivated and resilient when the odds feel stacked against you? By understanding the why behind the numbers—and using that knowledge to sharpen your approach.
đź’ˇ Got an Interview? You're Already in the Top 2%
Let’s start with a positive: if you’ve been invited to interview, you’ve already stood out from a large pool of applicants. Employers typically interview just six people per role, so being shortlisted means something on your CV and application has already made a strong impression.
Now’s your time to shine—so preparation is key.
👉 Top tip: Review the job description thoroughly and come prepared with examples that show you understand what the role involves. If anything is unclear, ask questions in the interview. It shows initiative and genuine interest.
We cover all this and more in our free Interview Preparation Checklist.
⏳ Be Prepared for the Long Haul
The average hiring process takes around 27.5 days, but we’ve seen everything from one-week turnarounds to marathon-like processes involving up to 10 stages. Yes, really.
Delays are often down to internal diaries, decision-making hierarchies, or shifting priorities. It’s rarely about you—so try not to take it personally if timelines slip.
👉 Top tip: Follow up politely if you’ve not heard back, and use the waiting time to keep exploring other roles. Don’t pause your whole search for one opportunity.
Need help structuring your job search like a pro? Watch our Job Searching Tips Webinar Replay.
đź“ą Video Interviews are Here to Stay
Around 70% of employers now use video interviews as part of their recruitment process. That might be a short pre-recorded video or a live Zoom-style chat.
If you don’t use video regularly, take some time to get comfortable with it. Test your tech, sort your lighting and background, and practise speaking to camera—it can make a big difference.
👉 Top tip: A video interview is still a real interview. Dress the part, make eye contact and show your personality just as you would in person.
Check out our Top Tips for Video Interview Success to feel confident on camera.
⏱ Feedback Takes Time (but Don’t Be Afraid to Ask)
On average, it takes employers 12 days to provide feedback after interviews. That’s partly because they’re often meeting several candidates over a period of weeks, and want to complete the full round before making decisions.
That said, waiting can be tough—especially if you’re juggling multiple opportunities or feeling anxious.
👉 Top tip: If you haven’t heard back after a week or so, it’s fine to follow up and ask for an update. It shows professionalism and interest in the role.
❌ Common Reasons for Rejection (and How to Avoid Them)
Many of our clients cite a lack of understanding of the role as a reason for not progressing a candidate. So even if the job description feels a bit vague or jargon-heavy, try to pin down what the job is really asking for.
Another big reason? Lack of enthusiasm. In fact, 4 in 10 employers say they’d reject a candidate who didn’t show enough interest.
👉 Top tip: Enthusiasm doesn’t have to mean being over-the-top. Smiling, asking thoughtful questions, and referencing the company or role shows you’re engaged. Nerves are normal—but don’t let them drown out your personality.
📣 Bottom Line: Don’t Lose Faith
Yes, the numbers can be sobering—but they’re also empowering. When you know what’s happening behind the scenes, you can prepare better, focus your energy where it counts, and take rejection less personally.
Every stage of the process is a chance to refine your approach and grow in confidence. And when the right opportunity comes along, you’ll be ready for it.
You’ve got this—and we’re always here to support you.
Explore our CV Services and Interview Coaching for tailored help that’s flexible and designed with you in mind.