In today’s competitive job market, many marketing job seekers are turning to AI tools to streamline and strengthen their applications. From polishing their CVs to generating cover letters, tools like ChatGPT, Grammarly and LinkedIn’s AI features are now a key part of the job-seeking process
Marketers are leveraging AI every day to optimise campaigns, personalise content, and analyse performance. It makes sense that they would turn to the same tools to refine a CV or prep for an interview.
The key difference? The most effective applications still reflect the person behind the work, their judgement, creativity, and lived experience.
As Marketing Recruiters, we review 100’s of applications daily, the most stand out profiles are those where technology is used to shape the message, not replace the person behind it.
Here is how to use AI smartly, without losing the authenticity that gets you noticed:
1. Use AI for Research and Preparation
AI is brilliant for summarising company news, understanding job specs, and even suggesting interview questions. Use it to speed up your prep, deepen your understanding, and build a picture of what the employer is really looking for. But your insights and motivations should be your own.
2. Draft with AI, but then edit… and edit again
AI can help get you started, especially if writing is not your strength. However, un-edited AI applications stand out for all the wrong reasons:
Overused phrases
Flat, impersonal tone
Generic achievements
And yes – emojis – there is no place for emojis on your professional profile
Always bring it back to your voice, your experience, your impact and your success.
3. Tailor Beyond Keywords and Profile Note.
Tweaking your CV with a few job title buzzwords is no longer enough. You need to spend time highlighting why you are the best candidate for the job. Research recent projects, company values, and challenges. Then clearly connect your experience to how you can solve the organisations problems. That is the difference between a generic applicant and a standout one.
4. Showcase Impact, do not just list day to day duties
It is not about what you were responsible for. It is about what you achieved. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your examples. Quantify wherever possible. Using metrics and results really helps to demonstrate achievements.
Instead of:
“Managed social media accounts.”
Try:
“Grew social media engagement by 40% in six months, leading to a 15% increase in lead generation.”
5. Stop Relying on AI for CVs and Cover Letters
We receive hundreds of applications weekly. The AI-written ones are very obvious identical structure, vague claims, generic tone. What makes your application, email or cover note stand out – Messages that are clear, relevant, and human.
6. Partner With a Specialist Recruiter
Working with a recruiter who knows your market gives you access and insight you will not find online:
Unadvertised roles – many senior positions are not broadly advertised
Real hiring insights – beyond what is written in the job description
Interview prep support
Direct representation to hiring managers
Support on salary negotiation
A good recruiter should be your advocate.
7. Leverage Your Network
Job applications are just one part of the process. Use LinkedIn or other networking tools (e.g. Events) to build meaningful connections:
Reach out to current or former employees
Ask about company culture, team structure, or hiring priorities
Attend industry events or webinars and engage with the community
Considering joining a professional body e.g Marketing Institute Ireland
It is not all about “who you know” (although this definitely helps), it is about what you learn from them.
Final Word
AI is a powerful tool, but your authenticity, preparation, and self-awareness are still your biggest assets. Use technology to enhance, not replace, your thinking.
And if you need support navigating the next step in your marketing career – that is what we are here for.