Getting a job in 2025 is tougher than ever. The number of graduate roles has dropped to its lowest level in seven years, and with AI reshaping how companies hire, competition across all levels has never been fiercer.

But while AI has changed the rules, it hasn’t rewritten them completely. The people who win in today’s job market aren’t fighting against technology; they’re learning how to use it to their advantage.

So, how do you land a new role? Our Head Of Talent Acquisition and recruitment expert, Karina Oluwo, has revealed five insider secrets every jobhunter needs to know to get ahead in 2025.

1. LinkedIn is your secret CV, and it’s always checked first

Forget dusty CV databases – recruiters don’t wait for your application anymore. They’re already searching LinkedIn, and if your profile is out of date, you could be invisible.

“Recruiters are silently scanning profiles before they’ve even opened your application,” Karina reveals. “Think of LinkedIn as your public CV. A recruiter’s first impression is formed there.”

“Here’s a top tip: your headline matters more than you think. Don’t just put ‘Marketing Executive’. Write something that showcases your skills, like ‘Marketing exec specialising in social campaigns that drive results’.”

2. Your values can make or break your chances

All too often, candidates focus on skills and experience. But more than ever, employers want to see what you stand for. Flexibility, diversity, and wellbeing aren’t just buzzwords; they’re dealbreakers.

Karina says: “In interviews, candidates who can clearly explain their values stand out. If you’re clear on what matters to you, it shows confidence and helps employers see if you’re the right cultural fit.”

“Employers are watching how you talk about past jobs. If you mention teamwork, flexibility or work-life balance naturally, it ticks the right boxes. Talk about disagreements or negative situations without solutions, and you’re already on the back foot.”

3. AI isn’t replacing you, it’s revealing who’s ready to evolve

Forget the fearmongering – AI isn’t here to take your job, it’s here to change how you work, apply, and prepare. According to Karina, the smartest candidates are already using it to refine their approach.

“AI isn’t a creation tool, it’s an improvement utensil,” says Karina. “Use it to sharpen your CV, prepare for interviews, or better understand the companies you’re applying to. The key is to make the tech work with you, not do the work for you.”

Employers can easily spot the difference between something that’s been thoughtfully enhanced, and something that’s been generated extensively. “Those who use AI to improve their thinking, rather than replace it, come across as adaptable, efficient, and future-ready,” Karina adds.

4. The best opportunities find you, when you make yourself findable

Applying is just one piece of the puzzle. The most successful candidates are creating visibility long before they hit submit.

“Recruiters aren’t just waiting for applications anymore,” says Karina. “They’re proactively mapping the market and reaching out to top talent who might not even be looking. The people who stay visible and engaged are the ones getting those calls.”

That means staying active in your space, sharing insights, connecting with leaders, and joining the conversations that matter. “When you show up consistently and contribute, you’re not just another applicant; you become part of the network,” Karina adds.

5. The oldest trick still works: people hire people

Behind all the AI screening and LinkedIn algorithms, nothing beats a genuine human connection. A simple thank-you email after an interview still stands out, especially in 2025 when fewer people bother.

“The basics never go out of fashion,” Karina admits. “Politeness, enthusiasm, and genuine interest make a candidate memorable. You’d be surprised how often decisions are swayed by who felt the most genuine.”

How to get hired in 2025

Recruitment has gone high-tech, but it’s still a people game. The candidates who win in 2025 will be the ones who know how to work with AI, not against it. As Karina puts it:

“AI can make you faster and sharper, but it can’t replace human intuition or connection. The candidates who blend both are the ones who stand out.”

Looking for a role in Tech? Why not submit your CV today? Or, check out our live Job Board for currently available roles.