AI is no longer optional for job seekers. Employers are already hiring people who know how to use AI tools to work more efficiently. As I often say,
🔊“Don’t miss out on your next opportunity to somebody who uses AI more effectively than you do.”

That statement is becoming more real every day. Candidates who understand AI will have a competitive edge over those who ignore it. In this blog, I’m sharing five practical AI tips for job seekers that will help you:

• Create better CVs
• Prepare for interviews
• Search for opportunities
• And most importantly — stand out in today’s competitive market

💙Before we continue, this Blog was prompted by a conversation that I had recently with the lovely Ravnoor Kaur as we recorded some content for her amazing Instagram Reels – check them out here.

Why Employers Value AI Skills in Job Seekers

Employers are no longer hiring purely based on experience. They want to see if you’re digitally fluent and can use AI tools confidently in your work. Even something simple like listing “Proficient in ChatGPT, Claude, or Perplexity” on your CV signals that you can adapt quickly to new tech.

Some job seekers are still hesitant to use AI, but those who embrace it are already experiencing the benefits.
Just remember: AI won’t replace you, but job seekers who use AI will replace those who don’t.

1. Use AI to Build Smarter CVs and LinkedIn Profiles

Your CV and LinkedIn profile are still your most important personal branding tools. AI tools can help you rewrite, tailor, and optimise them for specific roles.

For example, upload your current CV into ChatGPT and say:

Please rewrite my CV for a Financial Manager role in London.

Instructions:
• Emphasise my experience in the FMCG sector, particularly highlighting the project I completed at [Company ABC].
• I will provide a URL to an article about this project — use it to add context and measurable impact (e.g. revenue growth, cost savings, efficiencies).
• Align the CV with UK hiring standards (clear formatting, bullet-point achievements, no personal data like photo/ID number).
• Focus on leadership, financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting skills.
• Showcase achievements with quantifiable results wherever possible.
• Keep the tone professional, achievement-focused, and tailored for London employers.
• Make sure keywords like “financial management”, “FMCG”, “strategic planning”, and “business partnering” are naturally woven in.

Deliver the output as:

A short executive summary paragraph (for use on LinkedIn or as a CV profile) &

A polished CV formatted for UK applications.

But don’t just copy and paste. Review the AI’s output, proofread it, and add your unique voice. Recruiters can instantly tell when something sounds too generic or robotic.

AI can also help with your LinkedIn About section, highlight your achievements, and even structure your career journey.

✅ Pro Tip: Remove any personal info (like your phone number, ID numbers etc) before uploading to free AI tools. Your privacy matters!

2. Stand Out in a Sea of AI-Generated Applications

There’s a lot of automation happening behind the scenes, both from job seekers and recruiters.

Tools like Handshake can auto-apply to roles, while companies use AI to filter hundreds of CVs quickly. That means AI is screening AI. So, how do you stand out?⁉️

👉 Build your personal brand.
Recruiters Google candidates. Make sure they find:

• An up-to-date LinkedIn profile
• Thoughtful posts or articles
• Webinar appearances or podcast interviews

Real Example: I once placed a junior candidate with minimal experience, but because of their active, authentic online presence, especially on LinkedIn, they beat out people with years more experience! This particular candidate also had very active YouTube and TikTok Channels which drew us to him immediately.

3. Use AI to Research and Apply for Jobs Faster

Job boards are exhausting, and old school. 🏫 Luckily, tools like ChatGPT or Perplexity can cut your job search time in half.

Try this prompt:

“You are my AI research assistant. Help me find current Marketing Manager job openings in Cape Town and the surrounding Western Cape.

Requirements:
• Focus on job titles like “Marketing Manager”, “Brand Manager”, “Digital Marketing Manager”, or “Head of Marketing” (avoid junior/assistant roles).
• Limit results to Cape Town metro and nearby hubs (Stellenbosch, Somerset West, Durbanville, Table View, Century City).
• Search across LinkedIn Jobs, Glassdoor, Indeed, PNet, Careers24, and company careers pages.
• Only include jobs posted in the last 30 days.
• Prioritise companies in tech, FMCG, retail, and creative industries.
• For each role, provide:
– Job title
– Company name
– Location
– Link to the application page
– Posting date

Bonus: Highlight any companies that are known to sponsor growth or learning opportunities, or those active in the Cape Town marketing/creative community.”

AI can surface relevant, up-to-date roles without endless scrolling. Combine that with Handshake, which automates some applications, and you’re winning.

💡 Bonus Tip: Use AI to draft your LinkedIn messages to hiring managers. Just personalise before sending, bots don’t build relationships. You need to do that.

4. Prep for Interviews with AI Mock Questions

This is one of the most underrated AI tips for job seekers: AI can be your personal mock interview coach.

Here’s how to use it:

1. Copy your CV, the job description, and the company website.
2. Paste them into ChatGPT.
3. Ask: “I am interviewing for this role at this company. I’ve uploaded the job description and my CV. Please create a 45-minute mock interview for me. Use realistic, structured questions that a [Role Name] interview would typically include – get these from the requirements in the job description. Run the interview in voice mode, asking me one question at a time and waiting for my answer before moving on. Give feedback on my answers if I ask for it, but otherwise keep the flow natural, as if you were the actual interviewer.”

You’ll get tough, tailored questions and you can speak your answers out loud for better preparation.

Plus, AI can help summarise:

• The company’s background
• Latest news
• Key competitors

That’s the kind of insight that seriously impresses interviewers.

💪Power Tip: Walk into your next interview with confidence, not confusion. AI can help get you there.

5. Learn AI Through Daily Practice

Want to feel confident using AI in your job? Use it every day.

Start small. Ask AI to:

• Create a meal plan
• Write a shopping list
• Draft a fitness routine
• Plan a weekend away

These simple tasks help you build comfort with prompts and feedback. That confidence will naturally translate into using AI at work.

In interviews, being able to say:

“I’ve been experimenting with AI tools in my personal life and applying what I learn professionally…”
shows employers that you’re curious, adaptable, and proactive.

TL;DR — Quick Recap of AI Tips for Job Seekers

• 🎯 Employers want candidates who understand and use AI.
• 🧠 AI can optimise your CV and LinkedIn BUT don’t forget to personalise.
• 🌐 Stand out with a visible, authentic online brand.
• 💼 Use AI tools to speed up job search and interview prep.
• 💪 Daily AI use builds fluency and long-term employability.

FAQs on AI Tips for Job Seekers

Should I list AI tools on my CV?
Yes. Listing ChatGPT, Claude, or Perplexity shows you’re comfortable with emerging tech.

Can AI write my CV for me?
AI can draft a great version but you must edit for tone and truth.

How can AI help me prep for interviews?
AI can run mock interviews, summarise company research, and generate tailored questions.

Is it safe to upload my CV into AI tools?
Free tools? Remove personal info. (Paid versions often offer better data security.)

How do I stand out if everyone is using AI?
By being more human. Use AI to help, but let your personality and brand shine.

Final Thoughts

These five AI tips for job seekers prove that AI is not a threat, it’s a superpower. 🌞

Use it to:

• Write better, personalised applications
• Accelerate your job search
• Sharpen your interview prep
• Build your online presence
• And develop skills employers can’t ignore

The real winners in this AI-powered job market will be those who blend tech fluency with real human connection.

👉 Want to future-proof your career?
Chat to Vanessa Raath for more information on her AI Literacy coaching and training, AI tools, and resources that show you how to use AI like a Seasoned Pro. Connect with her on LinkedIn or contact her here.