The procedure involved in hiring potential candidates is a very intricate process. There is a fine balance here between quality, suitability, and fit within the company environment. Below are a few ways you can speed up the hiring process as efficiently as possible:

1. Apply for relevant jobs only: it might seem like the right thing to apply for as many jobs as possible and to wait for something to happen or fall in your lap. It is better to take a more focused approach and apply only for positions for which you qualify in terms of actual experience, skills, knowledge, and tertiary qualification.  Remember to use various job portal sites to upload your CV. Keep an eye on the various sites and job portals to see if there is any movement or even any progress in terms of the application process just so that you can stay updated. Alternatively, on the job portal, select the option to be notified when your CV is viewed/downloaded – if the portal has this functionality available. If you are working with a recruiter and have not had any feedback for some time, send them an email or give them a call to inquire about your application.
2. Keep your CV updated: it may sound like a tedious process however; it could save you a lot of additional work at the end of the day. If something changes such as your phone number or your email address, remember to change this information and update it on your current CV. It would be a waste of time to apply for a position, the recruiter tries to get a hold of you and they cannot reach you because your number does not exist. A recruiter’s time is just as valuable as yours, so rather keep everything organized and updated. Also remember, if they cannot make contact with you, you might lose out on a position that is available!
3. Be available: this is a crucial step in the hiring process: availability. If you are currently busy looking for a position, you would most likely be sending out your CV and ensuring that you have the correct number so that should you be contacted you are available to answer the phone call. Remember to keep your phone close to you so that if you do receive a call from a potential recruiter, you make yourself available to answer the call. It is not very professional if you apply for a position seeking a job and you don’t answer your phone for a potential opportunity. If you do miss the call for whatever reason, be courteous and phone the number back immediately. It is not only professional, but it also shows that you have good character and are interested in following up on any new positions. The same applies to emails and any other forms of communication from the Recruiter.
4. Be open when communicating: as with anything in life, communication is the most important.  Keep in mind that the recruiter goes through numerous processes to get your CV to a potential Employer whilst organizing first and second interviews. It is important for you as the candidate to keep the recruiter in the loop in terms of how the interview went, what went well, what did not go well, and of course what the next steps would be. Do not forget to let the recruiter know what the client has discussed with you and where you stand going forward with the hiring process. Remember to thank the recruiter regardless of whether you were hired or not. Gratitude goes a long way.
5. Research and prepare yourself: do in-depth research on how to prepare yourself for tips during the interview process. This will be important as it can help you to better prepare yourself for the interview process ahead. It’s also important to check out the pros and cons and what you can and cannot talk about during the interview. Remember how important interview etiquette is, as well as your dress code for the day of the interview. Smile and be friendly, you never know who you might bump into or who you might talk to during or even before the interview process. Don’t forget to do some research on the prospective company as well – depending on the position you have applied for, you could look at items like their products, services, financials, projects, structure, or even their charity-based work.