Job hunting can feel like a lot. A lot of time, a lot of work, and a lot of things to remember. From tweaking your CV to nailing interviews, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. And with so many people applying for the same roles, how do you actually stand out?

Here's the thing: most job hunting advice is written by people who haven't hired anyone in years (if ever). It's generic, outdated, and frankly, not that helpful when you're staring at a blank cover letter at 11pm.

We did something different.

Instead of guessing what employers want, we went straight to the source. We spoke with hiring managers and talent teams at some of the world's leading companies, including Airbus, Verizon, Mars, Vodafone, BT Group, BAE Systems, OVO Energy and Camunda, to find out what they actually look for in applications and interviews.

The Job Hunt Playbook 2025 is the result: practical, no-nonsense advice straight from the people who make the hiring decisions. No fluff, no outdated tips—just the real insights that help you get noticed and land the job.

What's inside:

🎯 How to stand out in applications
Stop sending generic CVs. Learn exactly how to tailor your application so it lands on the "yes" pile.

💬 Interview tips that actually work
Real advice from hiring managers on how to nail your interview—plus what to do in assessment centres.

🤖 Smart ways to use AI
How to use AI tools without sounding like a robot (and avoid the detection tools that reject AI-generated applications).

📝 CV and cover letter secrets
The formatting, language, and achievements that make hiring managers take notice.

✨ Bonus resources
Checklists, webinars, and a job hunting tracker to keep you organised.

Insights from leading companies 

This isn't generic advice. We've gathered exclusive insights from hiring teams at:

• Airbus: A global aerospace pioneer, who designs and manufactures commercial aircraft, defense systems, and space technology. They offer worldwide apprenticeships, internships and a graduate programme, all supported by coaching, mentoring, and global career opportunities. 
• Mars: A global family business operating in confectionery, pet care, and food. Mars offers multiple apprenticeships in various functions, with career pathways, mentoring, buddy programmes, and international mobility. 
• Vodafone: Vodafone’s purpose is to connect for a better future. They go beyond connectivity, leading on intelligent transport, healthcare innovation and digital solutions for businesses and consumers. Vodafone offers a variety of roles across retail, sales, business and technology along with graduate and apprentice programmes. 
• BT Group: A major telecommunications company connecting millions worldwide. BT offers apprenticeships and graduate programmes with mentoring and encourages career moves across different teams and functions. 
• BAE Systems: One of the largest defence contractors, specialising in aerospace, land, sea, air, and cyber technology. BAE Systems provides diverse engineering and technology roles with clear career progression and professional development. 
• OVO Energy: An energy supplier driving the transition to clean, affordable energy. Known for its “Plan Zero” net-zero mission, OVO focuses on sustainability, innovation, and authentic personal development in mission-driven roles. 
• Camunda: A process orchestration company helping organisations automate and optimise workflows. With a fully remote culture, Camunda trusts their teams to take ownership and make meaningful contributions with an async-first environment. 
• Verizon - A global tech and communications firm leading in 5G, IoT, and digital transformation. Verizon hires across sales, engineering, cybersecurity, finance, software, data science, and project management with an emphasis on learning and global teamwork.