How to Stand Out as an Applicant in the Age of AI

In today’s job market, AI and automation are transforming the recruitment process. With applicant tracking systems (ATS) and AI-driven tools filtering through a sea of CVs, it’s crucial to make your application shine. But don't worry! Here are some friendly tips to help you stand out and, remember, we at PFR Recruitment are here to help you find your next role.

Optimise Your CV for ATS

Most companies use ATS to screen CVs before a human recruiter sees them. To make it detailed

• Use Relevant Keywords: Carefully read the job description and include the key terms and phrases in your CV. These are what the ATS will be scanning for.
• Use Standard Headings: Use common section headings like "Experience," "Education," and "Skills" to help the ATS understand your information.

Highlight Your Achievements

Show off your accomplishments with specific numbers and outcomes. Instead of saying, "Managed a sales team," say, "Led a sales team of 10, increasing sales by 20% over six months." This not only gets the ATS’s attention but also impresses human recruiters with your concrete results.

Tailor Your Application for Each Job

A one-size-fits-all CV won’t do. Tailor your CV and cover letter for each job application. Highlight the skills and experiences that match the role. This shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position.

Leverage Your Online Presence

Your online presence, particularly on LinkedIn, can play a crucial role in your job search.

• Complete Your LinkedIn Profile: Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date, with a professional photo, detailed work history and endorsements for your skills.
• Engage with Relevant Content: Follow industry leaders, join discussions and share relevant articles. This can help you get noticed by recruiters and industry professionals.
• Showcase Recommendations: Ask for and showcase recommendations from colleagues, managers or clients. These can serve as powerful testimonials to your capabilities.

Network, Network, Network

Networking remains one of the best ways to find a job.

• Attend Industry Events: Go to conferences, seminars and job fairs. These provide opportunities to meet industry professionals and potential employers.
• Join Professional Groups: Join LinkedIn groups and other professional associations related to your field.
• Informational Interviews: Reach out to people in roles or companies you’re interested in and request informational interviews. This can provide valuable insights and connections.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter

A well written cover letter can make a significant difference.

• Personalise It: Address the hiring manager by name and mention specifics about the company and role.
• Tell Your Story: Use the cover letter to tell your professional story and explain why you’re passionate about the role and the company.
• Highlight Your Value: Clearly articulate how your skills and experiences align with the job requirements and how you can add value to the company.

Prepare for Interviews

If you get through the initial screening, the next step is to ace the interview.

• Research the Company: Know the company’s mission, values, and recent achievements.
• Practice Common Questions: Prepare answers for common interview questions, focusing on how your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit for the role.
• Ask Questions: Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This shows your interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.

Show Adaptability and Continuous Learning

In an ever evolving job market, showing that you are adaptable and committed to continuous learning is crucial.

• Learn New Skills: Stay updated with the latest trends and skills in your industry. Online courses and certifications can help you stay relevant.
• Showcase Adaptability: Highlight experiences where you successfully adapted to change or learned new skills.

Pick Up the Phone



If it's a job you're really interested in, try picking up the phone and calling the company. A direct call can set you apart from other applicants and demonstrate your genuine interest in the position.

• Be Prepared: Know what you want to say and have your questions ready.
• Be Professional and Polite: Introduce yourself, state your interest in the role, and ask if there’s an opportunity to discuss your application further.

Standing out as a job applicant in the age of AI requires a mix of tech-savvy and traditional job-seeking strategies. By optimising your CV for ATS, highlighting your achievements, tailoring your applications, leveraging your online presence, networking, crafting compelling cover letters, preparing thoroughly for interviews, demonstrating adaptability and picking up the phone, you can significantly increase your chances of landing your dream job. And remember, while AI might handle the initial screening, it’s your unique experiences, skills and personal touch that will ultimately make you stand out to human recruiters.

At PFR Recruitment, we’re here to support you every step of the way. So, if you're ready to take the next step in your career, get in touch with us and let's find your perfect role together. Happy job hunting!