We get it, waiting to hear back after sending your CV can feel endless.
But behind every “silent inbox” lies a structured, often complex process involving multiple people, steps, and decisions — especially in Switzerland’s detail-oriented job market.
At Swisslinx, we believe in transparency. Here’s what actually happens once your application reaches us.
Step One: Screening Beyond Keywords
When your application arrives, it doesn’t go into a void, it goes to a recruiter.
We review every CV manually. But here’s the truth: recruiters don’t just look for matching titles. We look for evidence of impact, relevance, and potential.
We check your experience against the client’s must-haves
We look at location, availability, permit, and salary expectations
We evaluate how clearly your CV shows value
Recruiter insight: A well-structured CV can make the difference between a same-day call and a one-week delay. Keep it clear, concise, and aligned with the role, not just your history.
Step Two: The Internal Shortlist
Once we identify strong matches, we create an internal shortlist. This is where strategy kicks in.
We usually have to present a few top candidates to the client, often just three to five profiles. The selection is based not only on skills but also on fit, availability, and timing.
At this stage, your profile may be discussed among multiple consultants before submission.
We double-check details like:
Your employment eligibility (work permit, notice period)
Whether your profile overlaps with another open role
The client’s latest feedback or evolving requirements
Swisslinx insight: Sometimes clients pause or revise the position. That’s why you may not hear back immediately, it’s rarely about you, and often about internal changes on their side.
Step Three: Client Review & Feedback
Once your CV is submitted, the decision leaves our hands temporarily.
The client may review applications internally or across multiple departments, which can take several days or even weeks. Some require internal HR, hiring managers, and department heads to align before interviews are confirmed.
During that time, we stay in contact, but we can’t always share detailed feedback until the client finalises their list.
What recruiters can and can’t tell you:
We can share updates like “Your profile is under review,” but not confidential client discussions. Transparency is key, but we’re bound by privacy agreements and professional ethics.
Step Four: Communication & Follow-Up
If your profile advances, great news! We’ll reach out to prepare you for the interview.
If not, we’ll update you as soon as the client has made their decision.
Here’s what most candidates don’t realise:
Even if you weren’t selected for that role, we often keep your profile in mind for others.
Swisslinx insight: “No news” doesn’t always mean “no chance.” Some processes pause, reopen, or shift. We often revisit strong profiles weeks or months later when new roles open.
Step Five: Staying Top of Mind (Without Being Pushy)
Follow-ups are welcome, as long as they’re respectful and timed well.
Wait at least 5–7 business days after your application
Send a polite, concise messageReinforce your motivation or share a small update (“I recently completed a new certification”)
That kind of communication shows engagement, not impatience.
Swisslinx insight: We remember candidates who stay professional, proactive, and communicative. It’s the kind of impression that lasts far beyond one application.
The Takeaway
Behind every application, there’s a recruiter advocating for you.
The process may seem quiet from your side, but that silence often means alignment, coordination, and preparation are happening behind the scenes.
Keep your communication clear, your CV sharp, and your expectations realistic, and trust that the right opportunity moves at the right speed.
