What Happens to Your CV After You Apply? The Recruitment Process Explained. 💼

Applying for a hospitality job can sometimes feel like sending your CV into a black hole. You hit “submit” and then… silence. But what actually happens behind the scenes? At Exccel Recruitment, we follow a structured and strategic recruitment process to ensure both candidates and employers find the perfect match. Here’s an inside look at what happens to your CV after you apply.

Step 1: Your CV Enters Our Applicant Tracking System (ATS)

Once you submit your CV, it doesn’t just land in an overflowing inbox—it’s processed through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). This software helps us organise applications, filter relevant candidates, and ensure we don’t miss great talent.

High-ranking keywords for hospitality jobs—such as “hotel receptionist,” “event catering,” “fine dining experience,” and “hospitality management” can help your CV rank higher in our system, increasing your chances of being shortlisted. Make sure your CV is well-structured and tailored to the job description!

Step 2: Initial Screening by a Recruitment Consultant

After passing the ATS, your CV lands in the hands of a hospitality recruitment consultant. Our experts review your experience, skills, and qualifications to determine whether you align with the role requirements.

At this stage, we look at:✅ Work experience in hospitality (e.g., restaurants, hotels, catering)✅ Relevant certifications (e.g., food safety, bartending, front desk management)✅ Soft skills like customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving✅ Location and availability

If your profile matches the job role, we move forward. If not, we may keep your CV on file for future opportunities.

Step 3: Candidate Shortlisting

Not every applicant moves to the next stage. We create a shortlist of top candidates based on the employer’s criteria. If you’re shortlisted, you’ll receive a call or email from our recruitment team to discuss the opportunity in more detail.

This is a great time to: 📌 Ask questions about the role, salary, and work environment📌 Highlight any additional experience that makes you a strong fit📌 Ensure your availability and interest in the position

Step 4: Interview Coordination

Once shortlisted, we arrange an interview with the employer. This could be a face-to-face meeting, phone interview, or video interview depending on the role and company.

We also provide interview coaching, giving you expert tips on: ✔️ Common hospitality interview questions✔️ How to showcase your experience effectively✔️ Dressing professionally for an in-person or virtual interview

Step 5: Employer Feedback & Decision Making

After your interview, the employer provides feedback. If they’re impressed, they may invite you for a second interview or make an offer straight away. If they decide to move forward with another candidate, we’ll keep you in mind for future roles.

Pro Tip: Always follow up with a short thank-you email after your interview. It shows professionalism and keeps you top of mind with the employer.

Step 6: Job Offer & Onboarding

If you receive a job offer—congratulations! 🎉 We’ll assist you with salary negotiations, contract signing, and onboarding requirements such as right-to-work checks and uniform details.

Didn’t Get the Job? Don’t Worry!

Rejections are tough, but they’re not the end of the road. We keep strong candidates on our database for future opportunities. Hospitality is a fast-moving industry, and new roles open up every day!

Final Thoughts

At Exccel Recruitment, we ensure your CV doesn’t just sit in a pile—we actively match candidates with the right hospitality jobs. If you’re looking for your next role in hotels, catering, restaurants, or events, submit your CV today and let’s find the perfect fit for you!

Looking for a hospitality job? Apply now!