Being invited to apply for a job can be a positive sign, but what does it actually mean? Whether the invitation comes from a recruiter, employer, LinkedIn or a recruitment agency, it usually means your experience or profile has caught someone's attention. However, an invitation to apply doesn't guarantee an interview or job offer. Here's what you should know before deciding whether to apply.

Should you contact a recruiter before applying for a job? In some situations, speaking with the recruiter can help you understand the role, clarify the requirements and determine whether your experience is a good match. However, contacting a recruiter isn't always necessary, and how you approach them matters. Here's when it's worth making contact and how to do it professionally.

If you've applied for a job online in 2026, there is a good chance your CV has been stored or processed through an Applicant Tracking System, particularly if you applied to a large organisation or through a recruitment agency. But what exactly is an ATS, what does it do with your CV and does it really decide whether you get an interview?