Apply to 100 jobs or the right 10? Strategy, weekly targets, and how to track it all
When the calls don't come, the natural reaction is to apply to more jobs. Click “apply” on everything that looks vaguely suitable, send the same CV, and hope something sticks. It feels productive, but often ends in exhaustion and few results.
Resmi.ID Team · 4 min read ·
The competition is real. According to BPS (Statistics Indonesia) data released in May 2026, the open unemployment rate in February 2026 was 4.68%, about 7.24 million people out of a labour force of 154.91 million. In a market like this, targeted applications have a better chance of standing out than mass ones.
Why mass applying rarely works
- An untailored CV tends to miss the keywords recruiters search for.
- You forget where you applied, so you're caught off guard when someone calls.
- Time goes into sending, not into preparing for interviews.
- Rejection feels heavier because there's so much of it, even though the cause is often just a poor fit.
A more balanced approach
Sort openings into three groups. Group A: a strong fit, you meet almost all the qualifications and are genuinely interested. Group B: a reasonable fit, you meet most of the key requirements. Group C: a long shot or of little interest.
Spend most of your time on group A: tailor your CV, write a short cover letter, and research the company. Group B gets a tailored CV. Skip group C unless you have a specific reason. This way the same amount of time produces stronger applications, and you're better prepared when a recruiter calls to ask about the company or the role.
How many applications per week?
There's no magic number. What matters more is a pace you can sustain. As a starting point, many job seekers find a target like 5–10 quality applications a week helpful if they're not working, or 2–4 a week if they're still employed. Adjust it to your field and how many openings exist.
Review every two to three weeks. If you've sent plenty of well-matched applications but get almost no calls, the problem may be your CV or your choice of jobs. If you're often called but fail at interview, focus your practice there.
An example of a planned week
A simple rhythm helps you stay consistent without being overwhelmed. Here's an example for a job seeker who isn't currently working:
- 1MondayFind and shortlist new openings, sorting them into A, B, or C.
- 2Tuesday–WednesdayTailor your CV and send group A applications.
- 3ThursdaySend group B applications and follow up on older ones that are past two weeks.
- 4FridayPractise interviews, update your portfolio, or take a short course.
- 5WeekendRest and briefly review your application tracker.
Track every application
A simple spreadsheet is enough. Create these columns:
- 1Date appliedHelps you decide when it's reasonable to follow up.
- 2Company and roleWrite it in full, including the work location.
- 3SourceWebsite, a friend's referral, or direct email.
- 4CV versionNote which CV you sent so you stay consistent at interview.
- 5StatusSent, called, test, interview, rejected, or offered.
- 6NotesRecruiter's name, salary mentioned, interview questions.
Also save a copy of the job description. Ads are often removed after closing, yet you'll need the details to prepare for an interview weeks later.
Use the tools you already have
On KarirResmi, applications you send through the platform are automatically recorded with a status timeline, so you can see whether an application is under review, has passed screening, or has an interview scheduled. Applications a company doesn't process are closed automatically with a notification, so you aren't left waiting without an answer.
You can also save interesting jobs to apply to later, and create saved searches to get WhatsApp or email alerts when a new matching job is posted. This helps you apply early without checking the site every hour.
Protect your energy
- Set dedicated job-search hours, for example two hours each morning, then stop.
- Celebrate small progress, such as being invited to a test or getting feedback, not only job offers.
- Mix in activities that add value, such as a short course or a portfolio project.
- Remember that rejection is often about fit and timing, not a measure of your worth.
References
This information is general. For important decisions, check the latest rules at official sources or consult the relevant authorities.
