The job application landscape has changed more in the last 18 months than in the previous decade. AI is now embedded in every stage of the hiring funnel — from how companies screen candidates to how applicants prepare their materials.
Tailoring is No Longer Optional
In 2026, sending a generic CV is the fastest way to get an automated rejection. Companies use AI to calculate a "match score" instantly. If your score is low because you didn't tailor your keywords, a human will never even see your name.
The Formula That Works
Opening hook (1–2 sentences) → Specific relevant achievement → Connection to the company's goals → Clear call to action. Keep it under 300 words. Make every sentence earn its place.