How to land a job in 2024: insider tips to beat AI and stand out
Job hunting in the UK right now is tougher than ever. Graduate vacancies have plummeted from around 180,000 just three or four years ago to just 50,000 today — and if you’ve sent dozens of applications into the void, you’re not alone. But there’s real, practical advice on how to get noticed.
James Reed, chair of the recruitment firm Reed and a 30-year veteran of hiring decisions, has shared insider tips on breaking through the noise. Whether you’re struggling with AI screening systems, the frustrating “experience required” trap, or simply don’t know where to start, his guidance cuts through the noise.
Getting past the robots
Many employers now use artificial intelligence to screen applications before a human reads them. The good news: you can work with this. Reed’s advice is to mirror the language in the job description. If the role asks for communication, organisation or customer service, make sure your CV and cover letter clearly shows where you’ve done those things. Don’t lie about skills you lack — but do spell out the ones you genuinely have in a way machines and people alike can spot.
The experience catch-22
It’s maddening: entry-level jobs asking for experience. Reed acknowledges this is worse right now because employers are hiring cautiously. His solution? Build experience anywhere you can — temporary work, part-time roles, volunteering, community projects, or free online training. And if you get face-to-face with an employer, don’t shy away from saying directly: “Someone gave you your first opportunity. That’s all I’m looking for.”
Make your CV count
Keep it to one page. Start with a strong opening statement that sounds like you — not like a generic AI template. AI can help polish your application, but don’t let it do all the work or you’ll blend in with everyone else. A few human touches (even a rare spelling mistake shows it’s genuine) actually help, as long as the overall standard is grammatically correct.
The skills that matter
Focus on communication, collaboration and resilience. Good communicators stand out. Learn to speak confidently. Remember that every job is teamwork — interviewers want people who fit in, not solo operators. And finally, develop a thick skin. Job hunting is relentless. Persistence pays off.
Start today: refresh your CV, use the job description as a checklist, and apply with confidence that your genuine experience matters.