Frustrated with job hunt: recruiters ghosting, rejections despite strong fit, interviews going nowhere

Hi all,

I wanted to vent a little and also get some advice because my job search is starting to feel like I’m hitting a wall. I’ve been really disciplined about applications and interviews over the last few months, but I’m running into the same issues over and over.

1. Recruiters
I keep getting contacted by recruiters (sometimes even for roles that are a great fit), but then things just fall apart. Either they ghost after one call, or they say the client hasn’t gotten back to them and then vanish. It’s all very vague, and it feels like I waste time engaging with them for nothing.

2. Direct applications
I’ve been applying directly on company sites, usually among the first 10–15 applicants. I take the time to tailor my CV and cover letter, and in many cases my background lines up almost perfectly with the role. Still, I get rejected without even an interview. It’s frustrating because it’s not like I’m just blanket-applying, I’m careful and intentional.

3. Interviews
This one stings the most. In the past few months, I’ve had several first rounds with big firms. In two cases, the interviewer was very polite and even told me they were going on vacation and that their colleague/team would follow up. After waiting weeks and sending polite follow-up emails… nothing. Ghosted. In another case, a team lead said their hiring process was “painfully slow” (and that she was going on vacation) and then, radio silence again. I’ve had a few second/third rounds in the past where it didn’t work out due to fit, which is fair, but lately it feels like things just stop after one round, even when I get positive vibes in the call.

So at this point, I’m confused. I feel like I’m doing everything “right”, tailored applications, solid CV, strong interviews (or at least no bad feedback), following up politely. My background is three years in large multinational banks, plus I’m a CFA Level 3 candidate (took my exam in August, results pending). I also have a Youth Mobility Visa for the UK, so I already have the right to work.

My ask:
What am I missing here? How do I actually turn these applications/interviews into offers? Is this just the current brutal market, or should I change something in my approach?