AI in Recruitment: What Candidates Need to Know

Daily, we’re being asked about AI in our recruitment processes. It’s in the news, it’s everywhere on LinkedIn and let’s face it, we’re all using it more in our daily lives. As of 2025, it’s estimated that 66% of the global population uses AI regularly, with the main type of AI tools used for work being general-purpose generative AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Copilot, Claude) by 73%.

As expert recruiters, we’ve always believed that hiring is about people first. But we also know that technology, especially AI, is changing how we all work, and fast.

We aren’t about to replace our recruiters with robots, but we are aware that many organisations are introducing AI into their recruitment processes. So, as a candidate, what should you be aware of?

1 – CVs Can Be Scanned by Algorithms

Companies can now use AI to screen CVs before a human ever sets eyes on them. These systems look for keywords, job titles, and specific skills.

What this means for you:

Tailor your CV for each role. Use the language from the job description and highlight relevant achievements clearly. Check out our CV Guide for further tips.

2 – Some Interviews Are Now AI-Assisted

You might be asked to complete a video interview that’s reviewed by AI, before a recruiter/hiring manager watches it. These tools can assess tone, word choice, and even facial expressions.

What this means for you:

Practice speaking clearly and confidently. Don’t overthink it, just be yourself. And don’t be afraid to ask if AI screening is part of the process.

3 – AI Can Help Reduce Bias. But It’s Not Perfect

One of the promises of AI is fairer hiring. But algorithms are only as unbiased as the data they’re trained on.

What this means for you:

Make sure your online presence (especially LinkedIn) reflects your skills and experience. And don’t be afraid to ask about a company’s approach to inclusive hiring.

4 – The Human Touch Still Matters

At the end of the day, AI can’t replace a conversation. It can’t understand your passion, your potential, or your personality the way a person can.

What this means for you:

Follow up after interviews. Be proactive. Build relationships with recruiters/hiring companies. These human connections still make a big difference.

5 – Should You Use AI to Write Your CV?

Yes, but with care. AI tools like ChatGPT or CV builders can help you structure and polish your CV, saving time and improving clarity. But they don’t know your story.

What this means for you:

Use AI to get started or refine, but always, and we mean always, personalise. We can spot an AI-drafted CV easily. Yes ChatGPT, we are looking at you and your em dashes/ ChatGPT Hyphen.

Make sure your CV reflects your real achievements, voice, and goals. Think of AI as a helpful assistant, not a replacement for your own insight. Given the right prompts, it can save you time in the right way.

AI is here to stay, but the good news is, so are we. At Prospectus, we aren’t using AI CV scanners or screening, but we’re not blind to how AI can support better, faster hiring decisions. We are here to connect people with purpose and will never lose sight of our people behind the process.