Why using AI in the SA job market makes sense

The recruitment process can often feel like a confusing maze for job seekers, with constantly changing advice from HR professionals and recruiters on how to land a job. This can lead to frustration, especially when recommendations around CV formats, cover letters, and keyword trends seem to shift constantly.

Yet, one thing remains consistent: the value of a well-crafted CV. Having a solid CV is critical in South Africa, where unemployment is high and the economy is sluggish. It’s often the first impression you make on a potential employer, and it needs to showcase your skills, set you apart from your competitors, and help you stand out. However, putting together the perfect CV can be time-consuming and emotionally draining, especially when constantly updating and customizing it for each new job application.

This is where Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) comes in. While some recruitment professionals are wary of AI-generated CVs, claiming they may lack a personal touch, others see AI as the future of job searching. AI can streamline the job search process, making it more efficient, especially for young people or those early in their careers. So, how can AI help you in your job search?

Customize your CV

“Getting your CV and cover letter right is crucial in any job seeker’s journey,” says Annette Breetzke, Human Capital Executive at Momentum Group. “We operate in a sector that requires critical skills, and we want to ensure that the best talent can shine during the recruitment process, which is ultimately good for business and the economy.”

Momentum has partnered with Techsys, a Cape Town-based digital marketing agency, to develop an AI platform called ‘Own My CV.’ This tool is specifically designed to help job seekers create better CVs. Unlike general AI tools, ‘Own My CV’ focuses on job-specific needs, assisting users to customize their CVs to match their skills to the role they’re applying for. It also offers assistance with cover letters and includes a chatbot for further guidance.

Make Interviews Less Daunting

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, even for experienced candidates. Staying on top of industry trends and thinking on your feet during interviews can feel challenging. But confidence comes from thorough preparation and can make all the difference. Some interviewers might throw in unconventional questions, and being prepared helps you answer these with ease.

“Feedback is often missing during interview preparation,” says Andrew Walmsley, Founder of Techsys Digital. “The ‘Own My CV’ tool simulates real interviews with relevant questions and gives feedback on your responses, ensuring you’re ready for that critical first impression.”

Breetzke adds, “In such a competitive market, performing well in interviews is essential. A candidate might look great on paper, but their performance in an interview is often the deciding factor for an employer.”

Tackle Salary Negotiations

Negotiating salary can feel uncomfortable, especially if you’ve just landed your dream job. Many people fear negotiating could make them seem less appealing to their potential employer, or they might lack the confidence to start the conversation.

“This is another area where ‘Own My CV’ helps,” says Walmsley. “It provides industry-standard salary information for the role you’re applying for and guides you through the negotiation process. Armed with localized, up-to-date data, you’ll be in a stronger position to negotiate from a place of confidence.”

Breetzke emphasizes that learning to negotiate is an essential career skill, especially for women. “Women tend to negotiate less than men, and if we want to uplift women in the workplace, we need to encourage them to negotiate as confidently as their male counterparts.”

Supporting Women in the workplace

In a country where the gender pay gap is still significant, with women earning on average 28% less than men, Momentum aims to help bridge this gap by providing women with the tools they need to thrive in the job market.

“Momentum is committed to enabling women on their journey to success through our #SheOwnsHerSuccess campaign, which is an extension of that,” said Breetzke. “By harnessing AI technology, we are not just enhancing CVs, we are enhancing careers and futures.”

With tools like “Own My CV,” Momentum and Techsys are levelling the playing field in the job market by ensuring that every candidate, regardless of background or experience, has the resources they need to succeed.

For more information or to try the “Own My CV” tool, visit https://sheownshersuccess.co.za.