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The job market is evolving, and so is the way your CV is being reviewed.
With the rise of AI in recruitment, many companies are now using automated tools to screen candidates before a human ever lays eyes on your application. That means your CV needs to be optimised for both bots and humans.
The old rules don’t always apply, and there are a few common myths that need to be challenged.
At TA, we’ve seen what works and what doesn’t. Here’s our guide to modern CV success.
AI Screening: Why Keywords Matter More Than Ever
AI tools aren’t just looking for whether you’ve mentioned a skill, they’re looking at how often and where. If you're applying for a role requiring Python, Azure, or AutoCAD, those tools need to be clearly listed in your CV, and more than once if possible. Tucking them away in a single bullet point at the bottom of the page won’t cut it.
Tip: List all relevant skills and tools clearly. Mirror the language used in the job ad, and don’t shy away from repeating the most relevant ones in different contexts (e.g. project descriptions, achievements, and technical skills sections).
Tailor Your CV - Every Time
With AI filtering through hundreds of applications in seconds, a generic CV will often get filtered out before a recruiter even sees it. Tailoring your CV to each job is no longer optional, it’s becoming more essential.
Tip: Use the job advert as a blueprint. If the ad calls for stakeholder engagement, cross-functional team leadership, or embedded software experience, make sure those words are in your CV - and ideally stand out near the top.
Make It Instantly Clear You’re a Match
Even when a recruiter or hiring manager does review your CV, they may only spend a few seconds scanning it. That’s why it’s crucial that your most relevant experience appears early in your CV, ideally on the first half of the first page.
Tip: Structure your CV so that your most recent and relevant experience is immediately visible. Don’t make someone scroll to find out you’re a fit.
Don’t Assume the Reader Understands Your Job
The person reviewing your CV isn't usually a technical expert in your field, especially if reviewed by an internal recruitment team. If your role is complex or niche, it’s your job to make it simple.
Tip: Use clear, accessible language. Explain what you did, why it mattered, and what impact it had. Even your job title can be adapted slightly for clarity. For example, if you were an “Operations Manager” leading IT transformation projects, you might list your title as:
Operations Manager / IT Project Lead Then expand in your role summary to provide more context.
The ‘Two Page’ Rule Is Dead
One of the most persistent CV myths is that your CV must be two pages. In 2025, this is outdated advice.
Tip: Focus on relevance, not page count. If you’ve got the experience, include it. Just be smart. Use more space for recent, relevant roles and trim down descriptions for older, less relevant jobs.
What Should Go Where
Top of CV: A short summary explaining what you’re great at and what you’re looking for.
Next: Recent, relevant experience - make this detailed.
Then: Older or less relevant experience - keep it concise.
Bottom of CV: Education, certifications, references (or a note that they’re available on request).
Note: Based on the skills needed for the position you may feel in some instances the structure above might need a slight change. For example a position requiring a degree in a specific subject might be worth mentioning at the top of your CV so it can be seen at a glance.
The Power of the Follow-Up
In a high-competition market, those who politely make themselves known often stand out. A short call or email to confirm your application was received, and to ask if there’s anything further you can provide can move your CV up the pile.
Tip: Be respectful, brief, and helpful. You’re not demanding attention, you’re showing initiative.
In Summary:
AI isn’t going away, and it’s changing the way hiring works. But it’s not just a barrier, it can be your ally, if you structure your CV the right way. Tailor it for each role, make the important info pop, and speak directly to the requirements of the job.
At TA we’re here to help. If you’d like a second pair of eyes on your CV, or guidance on how to make it stand out get in touch. We’re not just recruiters; we’re here to give real, honest advice that works.