Here's your request in markdown format, with the integration of your keywords in a natural way, and the insight only an experienced consultant could provide:

1. Tips for Applying:

   • In my experience, it's vital to tailor your CV to the job listing. Clearly articulate previous experiences that align with the responsibilities of the merchandiser, such as managing inventory and understanding customer behavior.
   • Career gaps or switching industries can sometimes be viewed as a weakness; however, this can be mitigated by focusing on transferable skills in analysing trends or managing budgets in your CV. These are common skills mentioned in many job vacancies in Zimbabwe.
   • Showcase your communication abilities in the cover letter. I've noticed over time, that strong communicators tend to thrive in retail environments.
   • Mention any courses in marketing or retail you may have taken - it's often a preference for merchandiser roles, like many jobs in Zimbabwe.
   • Highlight your numerical and analytical skills - they're highly valuable in fulfilling duties like sales figures analysis and inventory tracking, common in vacancies in Zim.

2. Key Takeaways from the Job Listing:

   • What I’ve discerned from my years of analysing job listings is the importance of timing. Note the application deadline well: Interviews take place on Wednesday 20 December 2023 at 8am.
   • The How to Apply section is unique in that you are required to report to a physical address. This places more emphasis on an in-person interaction, commonly found in job offers in Zimbabwe.
   • Multiple locations are enlisted, indicating that the potential candidates can get employment opportunities in Zimbabwe in different regions.
   • Though experience in merchandising or retail is preferred, they specify that this is not necessarily required - a course in marketing or a related field could suffice.
   • What really stands out to me, is that the employer emphasizes multiple times the need for someone with strong organisational and decision-making skills.

3. Tips to Stand Out in a Competitive Job Market:

   • Showcase a project or task in which you used data to improve sales or the customer experience. This can differentiate you in the pool of candidates applying for Zimbabwean jobs.
   • Pair your CV and cover letter with a short, creative presentation showing your interpretation of a relevant market trend. This will help you stand out in the many job vacancies in Zimbabwe.
   • Demonstrate an understanding of the local context. For instance, if you're applying for Bulawayo, show that you understand the market dynamics in Bulawayo.

4. What Novice Applicants May Miss:

   • Interpersonal skills are very important for this job. From the recruiter’s point of view, you'll need to establish good relationships with customers and channel partners as part of this role.
   • Notice the "preferred" qualifications – they are not "required". Do not be deterred from applying if you lack these. In recruitment agencies in Zimbabwe, we encourage putting forward your potential and willingness to learn.
   • The job description mentions you should "be able to handle pressure." Ensure that you can demonstrate your ability to handle stress and maintain high performance in a fast-paced environment.