Mastering AI Video Interviews: A Guide for Irish Job Seekers
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to revolutionise the recruitment landscape, AI-powered video interviews have become increasingly prevalent in Ireland’s job market. For job seekers, understanding and adapting to this technology is crucial to stay competitive.
What Are AI Video Interviews?
AI video interviews are pre-recorded sessions where candidates respond to a set of questions, with AI algorithms analysing responses for factors like speech patterns, facial expressions, and word choice. These tools aim to streamline hiring by providing consistent evaluations and reducing unconscious bias.
In Ireland, companies are increasingly adopting AI interviews to efficiently screen candidates, especially for remote and high-volume roles. Platforms like HireVue and Flowmingo.ai are commonly used in the Irish job market.
Why Are They Popular in Ireland?
Ireland’s tech-driven economy and emphasis on innovation have accelerated the adoption of AI in recruitment. According to FRS Recruitment, AI interviews are on the rise in Ireland, allowing companies to streamline the process of interviewing large numbers of candidates.
However, video interviews allow candidates to showcase their skills remotely, saving time and resources for both candidates and recruiters.
How to Prepare for an AI Video Interview
- Understand the Platform: Familiarise yourself with the interview software. Practice navigating its features to avoid technical hiccups.
- Set the Scene: Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background. Ensure your camera and microphone are functioning properly.
- Dress Professionally: Even though you’re not meeting a person face-to-face, dressing appropriately sets the right tone and boosts confidence.
- Practice Common Questions: Prepare concise answers to typical interview questions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
- Mind Your Body Language: Maintain eye contact by looking at the camera, sit upright, and avoid distracting gestures.
- Be Concise and Specific: The algorithm evaluates your responses based on specific criteria, and you will have a time limit to answer all the questions. Use the time well to ensure you speak clearly, concisely, and directly address the questions.
Tips to Stand Out
- First Impressions Matter: The first 30 seconds of your response are crucial. Start with a strong, confident introduction.
- Avoid Reading from a Script: AI can detect unnatural speech patterns. Practice to ensure your answers sound natural and authentic.
- Use Keywords: Incorporate relevant terms from the job description to align your responses with the role’s requirements.
- Stay Calm and Collected: If you stumble, take a deep breath and continue. Composure is key.
How The CV Agency Can Help
The CV Agency provides expert CV writing services to help you succeed across every stage of the job application process.
We offer:
- Tailored CVs and cover letters optimised for ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems).
- LinkedIn profile writing to boost your professional presence.
- Custom responses for job applications and competency-based forms.
- Insightful blogs and resources to guide your job search journey.
Our goal is to help you put your best self forward on paper and online — so you are ready when the AI starts rolling.
🔗 Learn more about our CV and LinkedIn services
🔗 Contact us in Dublin on +35314991466 or CV@CVAGENCY.IE
What is an ATS?
In today’s competitive job market, particularly in Ireland, understanding how Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) influence the recruitment process is crucial. This article explores what an ATS is, how to tailor your CV for both ATS and AI, and evaluates the advantages and potential pitfalls of using AI tools in CV writing.
Applicant Tracking System (ATS)
What is an ATS? An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a software application used by employers and recruitment agencies to manage the hiring process. It automates the collection, sorting, and ranking of job applications, enabling recruiters to handle large volumes of CVs efficiently. ATS software scans CVs for specific keywords and phrases that match the job description, filtering out applications that do not meet the set criteria.
In Ireland, as in many other countries, the use of ATS is widespread across various industries. Therefore, understanding how to create an ATS-friendly CV is essential for job seekers aiming to increase their chances of securing interviews.
How to Complete a CV for ATS and AI
To ensure your CV is optimised for ATS and AI screening, consider the following best practices:
1. Use a Simple and Clean Format
Avoid complex layouts, graphics, tables, and images. Stick to standard fonts. Use clear headings and bullet points to organise information. Save your CV in a Word document (.doc or .docx) or PDF format, as these are commonly accepted by ATS.
2. Incorporate Relevant Keywords
Carefully read the job description and identify keywords related to skills, qualifications, and experience. Incorporate these keywords naturally into your CV, particularly in the professional summary, skills, and experience sections. This alignment increases the likelihood of your CV passing through ATS filters.
3. Focus on Achievements and Quantifiable Results
Highlight your accomplishments with specific examples and quantifiable results. For instance, instead of stating “Managed a team,” specify “Managed a team of 10 employees, increasing productivity by 15% over six months.”
4. Tailor Your CV for Each Application
Customise your CV for each job application by emphasising the most relevant skills and experiences. This targeted approach demonstrates your suitability for the specific role and improves your CV’s performance in ATS screenings.
5. Avoid Uncommon Acronyms and Abbreviations
Use standard terminology and avoid acronyms or abbreviations that may not be recognised by ATS. If you must use an acronym, include the full term the first time it appears, followed by the acronym in parentheses.
Should You Use AI to Write a CV?
The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to write CVs has grown rapidly in recent years. These platforms offer convenience and speed, often providing ready-made templates and keyword suggestions. However, while AI can support the CV writing process, it is not without its limitations, especially when it comes to quality, accuracy, and personalisation.
Benefits of Using AI:
- Efficiency: AI can help generate a basic structure or draft, saving time for individuals unfamiliar with formatting or layout conventions.
- Grammar and Style Checks: Certain platforms offer spelling and grammar support, which may improve readability.
Why Caution is Needed:
- Lack of Authenticity: AI-generated CVs can appear generic, formulaic, or impersonal. They often fail to capture your unique career story, strengths, and tone of voice, elements which are essential in differentiating you from other candidates.
- Limited Understanding of Context: AI may misinterpret or oversimplify job roles, achievements, or industry-specific terminology, resulting in inaccuracies or vague statements.
- Overuse of Buzzwords: Many AI tools rely heavily on clichéd phrases and buzzwords, which can weaken your impact and credibility with recruiters.
- Inconsistent Formatting: While templates may look appealing, they are not always optimised for ATS, which can lead to rejection before a human ever sees your CV.
A More Personal and Strategic Approach
A professionally written CV, tailored by a human expert who understands your industry, your goals, and your value, will always outperform a generic, machine-generated document. At The CV Agency, we combine deep expertise in recruitment, CV writing, and ATS compatibility to craft documents that reflect your individuality while meeting the exacting standards of modern employers.
Our service is not just about writing, it is about positioning you for success.
Key Takeaways
- Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are used by employers to filter CVs based on keywords, structure, and relevance before they reach a human recruiter.
- ATS-friendly CVs must use clean, simple formatting, include relevant keywords from the job description, and avoid images, graphics, and unusual fonts.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly used in both CV screening and CV writing, but it has limitations in understanding context, tone, and personal achievements.
- AI-generated CVs may lack authenticity, contain generic content, and potentially include errors or overused buzzwords that reduce your impact.
- Customisation and human insight remain critical, tailoring your CV to the specific role and showcasing unique achievements improves results with both ATS and human reviewers.
- Professional CV writing services offer a more strategic and personalised approach, ensuring your application stands out while meeting ATS requirements.
Ready to have a human expert write an ATS compatible CV?
Click here to contact us with your CV, email us at cv@cvagency.ie or phone us on +35314991466.
Why should you regularly update your CV?
Why Should You Update Your CV Regularly?
In today’s ever-evolving job market, keeping your CV up to date is not just good practice – it is essential. Whether you are actively searching for a new role or simply open to future opportunities, having a current and professional CV gives you a significant advantage. But what does that really mean, how often should you update it, and why should you consider working with a professional CV writer?
Let us explore these questions and more to understand the true value of a well-maintained CV.
What Happens If You Do Not Update Your CV?
Neglecting your CV might not seem important until a career opportunity arises, and you find yourself struggling to recall your achievements from two years ago. Waiting until the last minute to update your CV can result in forgotten accomplishments, rushed content, and missed chances.
Your CV is a snapshot of your professional journey. If it is not current, it is not accurate – and that can cost you interviews, promotions, or even confidence in your own development.
How Often Should You Update Your CV?
You do not need to revise your CV every week, but a regular review is vital. A sensible guideline is to revisit it every six months or after any significant change in your professional life:
- Starting a new role or receiving a promotion
- Completing a course or certification
- Gaining a new skill
- Reaching significant results or targets in your current position
By staying on top of these updates, you will never be caught unprepared when an opportunity arises.
Why Is It Important to Keep Your CV Aligned With Your Current Goals?
Your career objectives develop over time, and your CV should reflect that evolution. If you are transitioning from a technical role to a leadership position, for example, your CV must reflect that shift in direction. Keeping your CV aligned with your goals ensures that you are presenting the right message to recruiters and hiring managers.
This strategic alignment also improves your chances with applicant tracking systems, which filter CVs based on keyword relevance and format. An outdated CV may not even reach a human reader if it does not meet current standards.
How Can an Updated CV Help With Internal Opportunities?
Your CV is not only for external job applications. It is also a valuable tool for internal promotions, project roles, and performance reviews. When you have an up-to-date CV, you are ready to demonstrate your value professionally and promptly, whether you are being considered for a new challenge or negotiating a salary increase.
Having your achievements clearly recorded provides confidence and clarity during performance appraisals and annual reviews.
What Are the Signs That Your CV Needs a Professional Update?
There are several indicators that your CV could benefit from a professional refresh:
- It has not been updated in more than a year
- It lacks industry relevant keywords
- It is longer than two pages with no clear structure
- It appears outdated in both content and design
- You are not receiving interview invitations despite sending applications
A professional CV writer can address all of these concerns with fresh perspective, updated formatting, and strategic wording that engages employers and opens doors.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Professional CV Writer?
Hiring a professional CV writer is an investment in your career and future. Here is what you can expect to gain:
Clarity and Confidence
Professionals know how to transform your experience into compelling, concise language that showcases your skills without unnecessary detail.
Modern Structure and Layout
Your CV will not only read better – it will also look professional and polished. First impressions matter, and a clean, modern design makes a lasting impact.
Optimisation for Applicant Tracking Systems
Professional writers understand how to integrate essential keywords and format your CV for optimal performance in applicant tracking systems.
Time Saving and Peace of Mind
Instead of spending hours trying to perfect your CV, you can focus on interview preparation or your current role while an expert takes care of the details.
Is Your CV Truly Representing You at Your Best?
A well written, up to date CV should do more than list your previous roles. It should tell a story, highlight your accomplishments, and position you as a strong candidate in your industry.
Think of your CV as a personal marketing document. If it does not clearly demonstrate your value, you may be missing out on important opportunities.
Ready to Refresh Your CV and Unlock New Possibilities?
Click here to contact us with your CV, email us at cv@cvagency.ie or phone us on +35314991466.
Do not wait for the next opportunity to come to you – be prepared and ahead of the competition.
Final Thoughts: Stay Prepared, Stay Updated
Updating your CV regularly is not only about being ready. It is about taking control of your professional narrative. In a world where opportunities appear without warning, an updated CV ensures you can act with confidence and speed.
So ask yourself: Is my CV working for me, or holding me back?
If you are unsure, now is the ideal time to take action.
How to Fill Out Public Sector Application Forms in Ireland
How to Fill Out Public Sector Application Forms in Ireland
Applying for public sector roles in Ireland can be a rewarding yet challenging process. With opportunities ranging from healthcare and education to government administration and law enforcement, public sector jobs offer stability, competitive benefits, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on society. However, the application process is often rigorous and requires meticulous attention to detail. Below, we’ll share some practical tips to help you navigate public sector application forms and increase your chances of success.
1. Understand the Role Requirements
Before you start filling out the application form, carefully read the job description and person specification. Public sector employers typically list essential and desirable criteria for the role. Ensure you understand these requirements and reflect on how your skills, experience, and qualifications align with them. Use the person specification as a guide to tailor your responses.
2. Follow Instructions Precisely
Public sector application forms often come with detailed instructions, including word counts, formatting guidelines, and specific questions. Failing to adhere to these instructions can result in your application being disqualified. Take the time to review all guidance documents and ensure your submission complies fully.
3. Highlight Relevant Experience
Public sector recruiters look for evidence-based examples of how you meet the role criteria. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. This approach ensures your examples are concise, focused, and impactful.
For example, if you’re applying for a project management role, instead of simply stating that you managed a project, describe the project’s context, your responsibilities, the actions you took, and the outcomes achieved.
4. Showcase Transferable Skills
Even if you’re transitioning from the private sector or a different field, many skills are transferable. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and organisational abilities are often highly valued in public sector roles. Be explicit about how these skills will enable you to excel in the position.
5. Focus on Key Competencies
Public sector roles in Ireland frequently assess candidates against specific competencies such as leadership, decision-making, and interpersonal skills. These competencies are often outlined in the application pack. Structure your answers to demonstrate these attributes clearly and provide measurable outcomes where possible.
6. Use Plain and Professional Language
While it’s important to be thorough, avoid overloading your application with jargon or overly complex language. Keep your writing clear, professional, and free of grammatical errors. Using plain language ensures your application is easy to read and understand.
7. Tailor Each Application
Avoid using generic answers or copying and pasting from previous applications. Tailor each response to the specific role and organisation. Customisation shows that you’ve invested time in understanding the position and aligning your application with the employer’s needs.
8. Provide Supporting Documentation
Many public sector roles require supporting documents, such as transcripts, certifications, or references. Double-check the application requirements and ensure all necessary attachments are included. Missing documents can delay or disqualify your application.
9. Proofread Your Application
Mistakes can leave a poor impression. Review your application multiple times to catch typos, grammatical errors, and formatting inconsistencies. If possible, ask a trusted friend or professional CV writing service to review your application for clarity and accuracy.
10. Submit Before the Deadline
Public sector application deadlines are strictly enforced. To avoid last-minute issues, aim to submit your application well before the deadline. This gives you time to address any technical difficulties and ensures your submission is received on time.
Why Work with a Professional CV Writing Agency?
Navigating public sector application forms can be complex, but a professional CV writing agency in Ireland such as The CV Agency can simplify the process. Experts can help you:
- Craft compelling and tailored responses.
- Highlight your skills and competencies effectively.
- Ensure your application aligns with public sector standards.
By working with The CV Agency’s trusted team, you can maximise your chances of landing your ideal public sector role.
Final Thoughts
Securing a public sector job in Ireland requires careful preparation and attention to detail. By following these tips and seeking professional guidance when needed, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a standout application. Whether you’re applying for a position in healthcare, education, or civil service, the right approach can make all the difference.
If you need expert assistance with your public sector application, contact The CV Agency today. We’re here to help you succeed!
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
How to Optimise Your CV for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS): Essential Tips for 2025
In today’s digital job market, many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to manage the hiring process. If you’re applying for jobs, especially at large organisations, understanding how to make your CV ATS-friendly can increase your chances of getting seen by hiring managers.
In this guide, we’ll break down how ATS works, why it’s crucial for job seekers to optimise for it, and specific, actionable steps to ensure your CV gets through.
What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS), and Why Does It Matter?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a type of software employers use to filter, organise, and rank job applications before they reach human recruiters. According to The Muse, over 98% of Fortune 500 companies and many smaller organisations rely on ATS to streamline the hiring process.
For job seekers, failing to optimise a CV for ATS can mean your application never reaches a recruiter. Optimising for ATS ensures your resume or CV is noticed, giving you a significant advantage over other candidates.
How Does an Applicant Tracking System Work?
ATS software scans and filters CV based on keywords, formatting, and specific job criteria. Here’s what it focuses on:
- Relevant Keywords: ATS looks for job-specific keywords and phrases, such as “project management,” “budgeting,” or “team leadership.” Including keywords from the job listing in your CV increases the chances it will rank higher.
- Basic Formatting: Complex or creative formatting can cause ATS to misread your CV. Using standard fonts, section headings, and clear bullet points makes your CV ATS-friendly.
- Matching Content to Job Requirements: ATS also evaluates the relevance of your experience and skills by comparing them directly to the job description. Tailoring each CV to specific job listings can improve your ranking.
How to Create an ATS-Friendly Resume: Top Tips for 2025
- Focus on Job-Specific Keywords
To pass through ATS, your CV needs to include keywords from the job description. This may include technical skills, industry-specific terms, and qualifications. Use online specialist CV writers like The CV Agency to analyse your CV against job descriptions and identify critical keywords. - Stick to Standard Resume Formats
ATS software sometimes struggles with non-traditional formats. Stick to simple, standard formats to improve readability:
• Use clear section headings, such as “Work Experience” and “Education.”
• Avoid graphics, text boxes, and complex design elements.
• Save your CV as a .docx or .pdf file, based on application instructions, as some ATS software may handle one format better than the other. - Keep Your Font and Design Simple
A clean, professional design can prevent parsing errors:
• Use ATS-friendly fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
• Avoid unnecessary graphics and decorative elements.
• Maintain consistent, standard font sizes (9-12 pt for body text, 14-16 pt for headings). - Tailor Your Skills and Experience to the Job Description
Customising each CV to reflect the specific role is one of the most effective ways to boost your ATS ranking. Mirror the language used in the job description, especially for critical job functions and required skills. For example, if the job requires “Microsoft Excel proficiency,” include “Microsoft Excel” instead of “Spreadsheet management.” - Optimise for Both ATS and Recruiters
While optimising for ATS is essential, remember that your CV should also appeal to recruiters:
• Highlight accomplishments with quantifiable results to stand out.
• Use concise, action-oriented language.
• Ensure each section is clear and easy to scan, as recruiters typically spend only a few seconds per CV.
Mistakes to Avoid on an ATS-Friendly Resume
Avoid the following to ensure ATS compatibility:
• Images and Graphics: These elements often get misread or ignored by ATS.
• Overuse of Acronyms: Always spell out uncommon acronyms to ensure clarity.
• Non-standard Job Titles: Stick to widely recognised titles to ensure relevance.
Reviewing Your CV for ATS Compatibility
Reviewing your CV for ATS compatibility can give you valuable insights. Use a specialist CV writer like The CV Agency to compare your CV with job descriptions. Such a service can identify issues that could impact your CV.
FAQs on Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
- How do I know if a company uses ATS?
While many large companies and most job boards use ATS, not every company does. Generally, roles at large organisations or positions on major job platforms will use ATS. - Does a PDF resume work with ATS?
ATS compatibility with PDF files can vary. While some systems read PDFs without issue, others may struggle. If possible, save your resume in the format specified in the job description. - How can I make my LinkedIn profile ATS-friendly?
LinkedIn is another tool companies use for hiring. By including relevant keywords in your headline, summary, and experience sections, you can make your LinkedIn profile more compatible with ATS and improve your visibility to recruiters.
Additional Resources for Creating an ATS-Friendly CV:
• Indeed’s ATS resume tips to learn more about ATS-friendly resume design.
• Pitman Training’s ATS guide for tips on making your CV ATS-friendly.
Optimise Your Job Search Strategy with Professional Help
Creating a strong ATS-friendly resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile takes time and expertise. If you’re ready to improve your chances of passing through ATS, our team can help you craft a custom application package that stands out to both software and human recruiters.
Get started today by contacting us for a free consultation and start moving your job search in the right direction!
By following these steps and using the resources above, you’ll improve your CV’s performance with ATS and maximise your visibility to recruiters. Taking the time to optimise for ATS could be the difference between landing an interview and getting filtered out.
Further Help to Improve your CV for ATS:
• CV Writing Services
• LinkedIn Profile Optimisation
• Cover Letter Writing Services
Contact The CV Agency on cv@cvagency.ie, +35314991466 or WhatsApp +353894430983
