Did you know that 49% of NZ job seekers are using AI tools to gain an edge in their job hunt – but only 11% of employers are aware of it? This gap presents both a risk and an opportunity for hiring leaders.
The recruitment landscape in New Zealand is undergoing one of its most profound transformations in decades – and artificial intelligence is at the centre of it. From how job seekers apply for roles, to how employers source, screen and engage talent, AI is not a futuristic tool anymore – it’s already embedded in the way people find and secure work.
The Scitex Workforce Report 2025 reveals a striking reality: while many local employers are still playing catch-up, job seekers are already well ahead in using AI to gain a competitive edge. For hiring managers and business leaders, this presents both an opportunity and a risk.
Here’s what you need to know, and how recruitment agencies can help you stay ahead.
AI is Writing Applications – But can it ace the interview?
As reported in the 2025 Scitex Workforce Report, nearly half (49%) of NZ based job seekers surveyed are using AI tools like ChatGPT to assist their job hunt. From crafting compelling CVs and cover letters to preparing for interviews or even automating job applications, the modern candidate is more tech-savvy – and AI-augmented – than ever.
Surprisingly, only 11% of employers think candidates are using AI. This disconnect creates blind spots in recruitment processes, where employers risk misjudging a candidate’s communication skills or originality based on AI-generated content.
What does it mean?
We’re increasingly seeing candidate emails and application documents (such as CVs, cover letters) that read like they were written by different people – and AI is likely the reason.
CVs and cover letters are no longer reliable indicators of writing ability or even soft skills. Employers need to adopt more robust assessment practices – whether through practical tasks, personality assessments, or behavioural interviews – to ensure authenticity.
The Human Touch: Still your best screening tool
Tools like LazyApply are being developed and tested, they can help candidates search for and submit applications at scale, with minimal to no effort. While this makes the hiring process faster for candidates, it poses new challenges for employers:
- Are applications authentic?
- Do they reflect real interest or just AI-optimised keyword matching?
- Are candidates genuinely passionate about the role – or just testing the system?
In this context, in-person interviews, panel discussions, and character assessments are becoming more important than ever. As the report notes, the top three reasons candidates get rejected are:
- Poor communication
- Inconsistencies between CVs and verbal responses
- Lack of team fit.
Human connection remains irreplaceable, even in an AI-driven world.
The AI Skills Gap: A Competitive Advantage Waiting to Be Claimed
The market is shifting. Research cited in the report shows that employers are willing to pay up to 30% more for AI-skilled staff, yet 70% struggle to find that talent.
This is where recruitment agencies can make a real difference:
- Identifying genuinely AI-skilled candidates (not just those with an AI-enhanced CV).
- Helping clients understand which AI capabilities actually drive value in their industries.
- Offering upskilling pathways and training resources.
It’s no longer just about filling a vacancy—it’s about building future-proof teams.
Recruitment needs a human touch, now more than ever
Despite all the tech advancements, one truth remains: People don’t hire CVs—they hire people (and from candidate perspective, job seekers accept jobs with people they want to work with).
The Scitex report highlights that how candidates “communicate, relate, and engage” with hiring managers is often the deciding factor. While AI can enhance a candidate’s application, it can’t replicate authenticity, emotional intelligence, or team chemistry.
Recruitment practices must continue to bridge this gap, by helping Managers see beyond AI-polished applications and by guiding candidates to stay genuine in their interactions.
What Employers Should Do Now
Based on the findings, here are practical steps every employer should consider:
- Rethink your assessment process
Introduce real-world tasks or practical exercises to validate candidate skills and authenticity, without going over the top. - Invest in AI literacy across your teams
Upskilling internal staff in AI will help retain talent and unlock productivity gains. - Leverage recruitment partners for AI talent insight
Agencies are uniquely positioned to vet candidates and distinguish AI-enhanced presentation from true capability; we review so many applications, that we can see the often-subtle anomalies more easily. - Don’t abandon the human element
Focus on interviews, culture fit and communication – areas where character, not code, shines through. - Reassess what “good” looks like
With AI changing job-seeking norms, your benchmarks for a strong application may need to evolve.
Artificial intelligence is not replacing humans, it’s augmenting us. The most successful organisations in 2025 (and beyond) will be those that combine AI-driven efficiency with human judgment, empathy, and adaptability.
For recruitment agencies and hiring leaders alike, the message is clear: embrace the AI shift, but don’t lose sight of what makes a great hire. In the end, it’s not just about finding a smart resume, it’s about building smart, cohesive teams.
Join our Scitex Webinar coming up this month, related to AI:
Work Reimagined: Careers and Companies Built to Last
We’re thrilled to collaborate with renowned AI advisor Justin Flitter (founder of AI New Zealand) to dig into how AI is reshaping productivity, engagement and retention.
Justin will also share five tips to build your AI muscle, helping you boost your confidence with tools you can use immediately.
What you’ll get:
- Exclusive insights from Scitex’s latest workforce research
- Practical actions to improve your people strategy
- Actionable advice from NZ’s leading AI for business expert: 5 ways to build your AI muscle
- A free 30-day pass to the AI Toolkit webinar series
Whether you’re HR, leadership, or curious about AI’s impact on work—this session is for you.
Cost: Complimentary
To Learn more or RSVP: click here
Need AI Expertise? We’ve Got You Covered.
Scitex has a network of skilled AI consultants and contractors ready to step in—whether you need strategic guidance, project implementation, or upskilling for your team. From short-term projects to long-term support, we can connect you with the right talent to help you leverage AI effectively.
Ready to discuss your needs?
Please contact hello@scitex.co.nz or (09) 525 5520