Application feedback

To help you incorporate this feedback into future applications go to CareersHub to book an appointment with a Careers Consultant and get access to our employability support platforms CareersSet and Shortlist.me.

Code	Reason(s) your application was unsuccessful	Feedback for next time
1	You did not include all of the required information in your answer	Were you asked to include your availability in your application statement? Or any other information? Failure to include this kind of requested information can sometimes result in your application being rejected.
2	You did not submit all of the required application documents, or submitted incomplete application materials	This is a case of more carefully reading the application guidelines and instructions next time. If you are unsure which documents or information you need to submit to apply, you should visit an Applications Advisor to ensure that you are not missing any key materials.
3	You are not eligible for the opportunity based on your level of study, visa or work restrictions.	The eligibility criteria will have been clearly stated in the internship specification, so please try to read the details carefully when applying next time. If you are ever unsure about your eligibility for a role please contact the organisation or ask an Applications Advisor before applying
4	You did not meet the essential person criteria stipulated by the employer in the internship specification. (essential qualifications, essential skills, essential experience)	The essential criteria will have been listed clearly in the internship specification, so please read the details carefully in the future in order to save yourself time. If you feel that you do match the criteria, you need to ensure that you provide clear evidence within your application. If you are unsure about whether you meet the person criteria, then you should get in touch with the organisation or ask an Applications Advisor.
5	Your application demonstrated unprofessional use of AI	If you are using AI to improve your application, please ensure you have checked your application afterwards and tailored it to this specific internship. Never leave AI prompts on your CV or application answers, as this looks highly unprofessional and shows you have not dedicated sufficient time or attention to the opportunity.
6	Your CV could benefit from some improvement.	The team have identified that your CV could benefit from some changes to enhance the way you are presenting your skills and experience. This might be in reference to the structure or format of your CV, how you have presented the content or its general style/design
7	The content of your application was presented in an inconsistent, cluttered format.	Ensure that each paragraph has a definite purpose. Use clear headings/sections and a punchy to-the-point business style of writing with a clear and easy to follow structure.
8	Your application included spelling and grammar errors.	Please spell check your application. Asking a friend or family member to read over it can also help pick out any errors. Poor spelling and grammar illustrate to any employer that you don’t take care over your work and will likely result in your application being placed in the ‘no’ pile.
9	Your application was not unique or original, as you did not tailor it towards the specific internship application.	It is essential that each application you write is tailored to the role itself and the company. Ask yourself whether you have addressed each and every one of the essential criteria on the internship specification. Clearly outline how you meet these requirements and why specifically you want to work with the company. If you can read your application and easily replace the company name with a different employers name and it sounds like it still makes sense, it’s not tailored enough.
10	You did not provide enough concrete examples and evidence to demonstrate that you met the essential criteria to carry out the role.	It is not enough to just tell an employer that you think you are right for the role; you need to spell it out with 3-4 examples. Once you have identified what skills, experience and personal attributes the employer is looking for, try to come up with some clear, concrete examples that demonstrate these in action.
11	You did not convey enough desire and motivation for the opportunity.	Your application needs to demonstrate your motivation and enthusiasm for the role and for the employer. What is it about the opportunity that appeals to you? Why have you chosen to apply and what do you think you will get out of it?
12	You did not demonstrate that you had done extensive research into the employer and the opportunity.	It is important that your application shows you have a good understanding of the employer, the opportunity they are offering and why you are applying. This can be done by carefully weaving in specific, in-depth research you have done about the organisation. What does their website say that appeals to you? Have they been talked about recently in the news? Did you attend an event that they were at? Have you spoken to interns who have previously worked with them who had an amazing experience? Share what you’ve learnt and why this makes the organisation a good match for you
13	Your application was good and shortlisted by Queen Mary but was unfortunately not selected by the employer	It is difficult to know why some employers reject certain applications. Recruitment is subjective, so try not to feel too disheartened. Factors to consider in the future might be: Did your application convey enough enthusiasm and ability? Could you have demonstrated your suitability for the role more clearly and convincingly? Did you tailor your application enough to show knowledge of the employer and the opportunity on offer?
14	Your application was strong but interest in this particular internship was very high and there were other candidates who had slightly more relevant experience	This can be the worst kind of feedback to get as you can’t help other candidates having more experience than you. Even though you have clearly put together a good, tailored application there could be a few more improvements you can make to increase your chances of getting your application shortlisted next time. Could you try using different examples to demonstrate how you meet the person criteria? Could you restructure your application, so that your relevant skills and experience are picked up earlier by the reader? What else could make your application stand out?
15	You were unsuccessful during interview stage	The most common reason for being turned down at the interview stage is a lack of knowledge about the organisation. Another common reason for rejection is interview style. We strongly recommend that you ask for feedback directly from the employer so you can improve in the areas they mention. Next time, consider booking a mock interview with the Careers Centre before your interview, to get some useful feedback in advance.