With unemployment reaching new peaks, the prospect of finding a new job can seem daunting. Particularly when an estimated 72% of all job applications go completely unanswered. However there are ways to boost your employability, and to minimise the chance of your job application disappearing down the black hole of the company's HR department.

Five tips to boost your employability

1. Brush up your skills

A night or weekend course can be a big commitment, particularly if it's lengthy in duration. However there are few better ways to make your CV stand out from the crowd than to add a shiny new qualification. Employers will be impressed by your commitment.

2. Read industry blogs

One of the best ways to demonstrate enthusiasm for a role is to be knowledgeable about the industry. And one of the best ways to do this is to become a regular reader of industry blogs. You'll get all sorts of useful information that you can throw in to an interview answer!

3. Apply for lots of jobs

This one may seem a little obvious, but it's great practice to apply for jobs even if you're not sure you want them. You might get some good feedback and possibly some good interview practice.

4. Use your time wisely

If you're unemployed, try to find an opportunity for volunteering - particularly if you can find a position that's related to your industry. But even if it's not, volunteering can demonstrate to potential employers that you're a dedicated and enthusiastic worker who works well in a team.

5. Make the jobs come to you

A great way to boost your employability is to work on your online profile and offline networking. Use industry contacts, make new contacts, write an insightful blog post, answer industry questions - all these steps can raise your profile with recruiters in your industry.