Resumé writers and HR.
 

So, is this something that others have tried? I'm content enough in my current position, however have looked at and applied to other companies- met their minimums, know they need a few spots filled, yet still hear nothing back?

I've always considered flying to not require a flashy C.V because many requirements can be met with a neat table of hours and types.

Anyone in the know in HR or hiring? I'm befuddled how they feel they can determine ones personality etc from a piece of paper without offer of an interview etc.

*Disclaimer* not a new pilot.

Are you an expat? Someone in recruitment told me once my employer does not hire expat pilots nor do we ever take those with time on type. However we can’t stop them from applying. I have never sat next to a FO from abroad, or one with time on type so far previous to our operator. The old saying is once you leave you can’t come back, unless your joining a startup with mates of course.

What fragrance are you using on that CV?

Try this Australian website
https://www.opencolleges.edu.au/careers/resumes

True to a certain extent. However, as someone who used to receive many pilot applications the definite NOs are obvious when I see poor grammar, spelling and obvious flaws. If you cannot get something important like a job application letter correct then how are you on load sheets and manifests?
I am reliably informed that Qantas still gets regular applications addressed to Quantas.
So no, they cannot see your “personality” from a CV and covering letter but they may see enough.

cv sort criteria
 

As per the previous comments, make sure you meet the selection criteria AND address it in your brief application. A selection criteria compliance statement can also work to get you the first step. Don't encourage the HR drivel.

Company I worked for would ask for a cover letter. They would rarely read them but if you didn't do one, your app would be tossed in the trash can. It was amazing how many people would not attach a cover letter. We came to the conclusion that this was because there are people out there that don't have the skills to actually write something. This is even more surprising as there are hundreds of cover letter templates on the web.

Yes on the rare occasion they would read them, people would forget to change the company name in the letter.

The problem is that these days, resumes are first filtered by HR numpties who know less than nothing about about aviation.

Thus a resume which complies with HR’s insatiable appetite for drivel is essential - pretty much means you’ll need to engage a “resume writer”.

Another plan of attack is to find a way to bypass the HR gronk and get the DO,CP, senior pilot or other head honcho in ops to assess your suitability and put you on the short list. I strongly recommend this pathway.

Its truly a sad state of affairs today when one has to comply with a know nothing, wet behind the years recent graduate who wields all that power in HR.

I could not agree more. Those same numpties don't even have the courtesy to respond after they toss your application in the bin, even when the application meets the stated criteria. :D