How is AI reshaping recruitment in New Zealand, and what must candidates do to stand out in a crowded digital job market?

This week’s episode of The Business of Tech answers those questions with insights from Kara Smith, New Zealand country manager for global recruitment agency Talent, and Jack Jorgensen, head of data and AI at Talent’s sister company Avec.

Stiff economic headwinds and rapidly changing skills requirements, driven in no small part by the adoption of AI across industries, have made recruitment in 2025 fundamentally different.

“Application rates have been on the increase for about eighteen months now and continue to climb every month,” warns Smith.

“Our clients are just absolutely swamped with applications,” she said.

To cut through that noise, AI-powered applicant tracking systems (ATS) have become essential for recruiters. But Smith and Jorgensen say AI is a very imperfect tool for identifying the right recruits and that jobseekers should revert to old-fashioned networking and self-promotion to stand out.

“Don’t just rely on job boards. Think about your network, your personal brand, and proactive referrals," Smith advises. "Upskill in what matters now, especially AI and the so-called soft skills like team leadership and communication.”

Tune in to The Business of Tech, powered by 2degrees, for the full conversation and practical strategies to future-proof your career in the era of algorithmic hiring. Streaming on iHeartRadio and wherever you get your podcasts.

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