You optimise for two readers: the machine and the human. For the machine:
- Match your language to the job ad — use the same verbs, skills, and frameworks
- Use clean formatting (no fancy columns or graphics) for better parsing
- Include keywords like specific tools (e.g. “Figma,” “Python,” “user testing”) naturally in context
But don’t stop there. For the human:
- Write a summary that tells a clear story: who you are, what problems you solve, and why you care
- Show outcomes, not just activities (“redesigned onboarding flow, reducing drop-off by 40%”)
- Send a direct message after applying, especially in NZ where the informal approach still opens doors
Don’t just beat the algorithm. Bypass it where you can.
