Reading this thread, I’m amazed at the level of complication
I am with you Lucille, over the past few decades I have been involved with the hiring of more than a few newbies. For a start, virtually all unsolicited resumes are automatically chucked in the bin. The exception being one that turns up just as a position becomes vacant.
Next comes "Johny on the spot", if there's a job going he is in with a good chance. Next comes an ad on AFAP and a lucky dip of the applicants. A few get interviewed and a decision is made. A few references are checked.
Yes, it could have been done better and of all employed only around 50% have proved really good. These are snapped up by bigger companies within a year or less. The unsuited are either shown the door or leave of their own accord. I have seen the odd referee re-contacted and told in no short terms they gave a dud reference.
Nothing much has changed in 50 years as far as I see. Its a difficult industry :-)