Why Most Job Applications Fail in Bangladesh

Many qualified candidates struggle to get interviews because of avoidable mistakes in their applications. After analyzing hundreds of rejected applications, we've identified the 10 most common errors Bangladeshi job seekers make – and more importantly, exactly how to fix them.

Let’s dive deep into each mistake with actionable solutions:

1. Spelling & Grammar Errors (The Silent Rejection Reason)

Why It’s a Problem:

Recruiters receive hundreds of applications daily. Even minor typos can make your application look unprofessional and get it rejected instantly.

Real Example from a Recruiter:

"We had two equally qualified candidates – one had a flawless CV, the other had 3 spelling mistakes. Guess who got the interview?"

How to Fix It Properly:

✅ Use Grammarly Premium (more accurate than free version)
✅ Read your CV aloud – you’ll catch errors you miss when reading silently
✅ Ask a native English speaker to review (if applying to multinational companies)

2. One-Size-Fits-All CV (The Lazy Applicant’s Mistake)

Why Customization Matters:

A generic CV shows you didn’t research the company or role. Employers want to see relevant skills highlighted.

Before & After Example:

Generic CV:
"Managed social media accounts"

Tailored for Marketing Role:
"Increased Facebook engagement by 42% through targeted content strategy"

Step-by-Step Fix:

  1. Study the job description carefully
  2. Identify 3-5 key requirements
  3. Reorder your CV to highlight matching skills
  4. Use the same keywords from the job post

3. Weak Cover Letter (The Missed Opportunity)

Why Most Cover Letters Fail:

They either:

  • Repeat the CV
  • Are too generic
  • Don’t explain why you want THIS job

The 3-Paragraph Formula That Works:

  1. Opening: Mention the exact job title and why you’re excited
  2. Middle: Connect your skills to their needs (use numbers)
  3. Closing: Polite call-to-action + availability

4. Incorrect Contact Info (The Tragic Mistake)

Shocking Fact:

15% of applications have wrong contact details according to Bangladeshi HR managers.

Triple-Check System:

  1. Verify phone number (+88 format)
  2. Test email by sending to yourself
  3. Include professional LinkedIn (not Facebook)

5. Unprofessional Email Address


Bad Examples That Get Rejected:

Professional Alternatives:

❌ prince_of_dhaka@yahoo.com

❌ sweetypie22@gmail.com

✔ firstname.lastname@gmail.com

✔ f.lastname@yahoo.com

6. CV Length Mistakes

The Goldilocks Rule:

  • Fresh graduates: 1 page
  • 5+ years experience: 2 pages MAX
  • Executives: 3 pages only if absolutely necessary

Pro Tip:

If over 2 pages, cut older jobs (keep only relevant ones)

7. Ignoring Application Instructions

Common Missed Requirements:

  • Specific file name format
  • Photo size requirements
  • Additional documents

The Fix:

Create a checklist for each application

8. Lies on CV (The Career Killer)

Why It Backfires:

  • Reference checks expose lies
  • Skills tests reveal truth
  • Can lead to termination after hiring

Honest Alternative:

Frame limited experience positively:
"Fast learner with foundational knowledge in X, eager to expand skills in Y"

9. No Company Research

What Recruiters Want to Hear:

"I admire your company’s work in [specific project] because..."

5-Minute Research Trick:

Check "About Us" page

  1. Read latest news
  2. Note company values

10. Giving Up Too Soon

The Harsh Reality:

The average job search takes 3-6 months in Bangladesh

Persistence Plan:

  • Apply to 5 jobs/week minimum
  • Track applications in spreadsheet
  • Improve 1 thing after each rejection

Final Checklist Before Hitting "Send"

✔ Spelling/grammar check
✔ Tailored to job description
✔ Professional email
✔ Correct contact info
✔ Followed all instructions

Need more help? Download our Free Bangladesh CV Template designed specifically for local employers!