South Africa’s hospitality industry is full of energy and opportunity. Elegant city hotels in Cape Town, bustling restaurants in Johannesburg and luxury lodges scattered across the country’s breathtaking landscapes. But while the sector continues to grow, breaking into it or finding your next great position isn’t always easy.

Competition for quality roles is fierce and many employers prefer to hire discreetly through trusted partners rather than public job boards. This often leaves talented jobseekers struggling to get noticed, even when they have the right experience and passion for the industry.

That’s where a hospitality recruitment agency becomes your greatest advantage. Specialised agencies understand more than just hiring, they understand hospitality. Whether you’re a chef, waiter, bartender, cleaner or front-desk professional, partnering with a reputable hospitality recruiter can help you find work faster, access exclusive opportunities, and build a lasting career in one of South Africa’s most exciting industries.

Why partner with a Hospitality Recruitment agency instead of applying directly?

While applying directly is always an option, working with a hospitality recruitment agency gives you a powerful edge.

These agencies specialise in the hospitality industry, meaning they don’t just understand staffing. They understand service, operations and people. Here’s how that makes a difference:

Faster placement in quality roles

Hospitality agencies like MASA work with a wide network of employers, from luxury hotels and resorts to restaurants and catering companies. Because these relationships are already established, recruiters can quickly match your profile to active vacancies.

Access to exclusive and hidden vacancies

Many hotels, lodges and catering companies don’t advertise their openings publicly. They rely on trusted recruitment partners to source candidates efficiently and discreetly.

By registering with a hospitality recruitment agency, you gain access to these exclusive opportunities as they become available . Including seasonal, full-time and temporary positions that you wouldn’t find on job boards.

Professional representation at no cost

Here’s one of the biggest advantages. Reputable hospitality recruitment agencies don’t charge jobseekers. Employers cover the recruitment costs, allowing you to access professional representation and job-matching expertise completely free of charge.

So instead of navigating the industry alone, you have a team of recruiters advocating for you. Connecting you to reputable hospitality employers who value your skills and experience.

Types of Hospitality jobs you can find through an agency and what’s currently in demand

One of the biggest advantages of working with a hospitality recruitment agency is the variety of roles available. Most recruitment agencies cater to every level and department within the hospitality industry.

Unlike general job boards, these agencies maintain direct relationships with hotels, lodges, restaurants and catering companies across South Africa. Meaning you’ll gain access to high-quality placements that match your skills and ambitions as they become available. 

Hotel and accommodation roles

Hotels and guest lodges are the backbone of South Africa’s hospitality industry, offering steady employment opportunities year-round. Agencies regularly recruit for both front-of-house and back-of-house positions that ensure smooth guest experiences.

Typical hotel placements include:

• Front desk agents and receptionists
• Guest relations officers
• Housekeeping supervisors and room attendants
• Night auditors and concierge staff
• Porters, cleaners, and maintenance crew

With tourism rebounding strongly, front office staff, housekeeping teams and guest services professionals are in particularly high demand, especially in Cape Town, Durban and major tourist hubs across South Africa.

Restaurant and Food Service Jobs

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and love delivering great service, restaurant roles are ideal. Recruitment agencies connect jobseekers with restaurants ranging from fine dining establishments to casual eateries and hotel restaurants.

Common restaurant roles include:

• Waiters and waitresses
• Hosts and cashiers
• Bar staff and mixologists
• Restaurant managers and floor supervisors

Experienced waitstaff, baristas and restaurant supervisors are in constant demand. Particularly those who can handle high guest volumes and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

Chef and Kitchen Positions

Behind every great dining experience is a dedicated kitchen team. Hospitality recruitment agencies are continually sourcing skilled culinary professionals for permanent and temporary contracts.

Available kitchen roles include:

• Commis chefs and line cooks
• Sous chefs and head chefs
• Pastry chefs and bakers
• Kitchen assistants and porters

The demand for qualified chefs remains strong across South Africa’s restaurant and catering sectors, with multi-skilled cooks who can adapt to different cuisines and service settings being highly sought after.

Catering and Events Opportunities

Catering and event staffing are some of the most flexible and rewarding areas of hospitality. Through catering job placement, agencies supply staff for weddings, corporate functions, conferences, and private events.

Typical catering roles include:

• Banquet servers and event waiters
• Buffet attendants and food prep staff
• Catering assistants and runners
• Event setup and service crew

As the events industry recovers and expands, temporary catering staff, event waiters and setup crews are among the most requested roles. Offering excellent opportunities for flexible or part-time work.

Resort, Lodge and Leisure Positions

South Africa’s stunning lodges and resorts in regions like the Kruger Park, Garden Route, and KwaZulu-Natal attract both local and international tourists. Creating a steady need for skilled hospitality workers.

Typical placements include:

• Lodge managers and guest liaisons
• Game lodge chefs and servers
• Spa attendants and wellness coordinators
• Maintenance and groundskeeping teams

There’s a growing need for multiskilled lodge staff who can manage both guest-facing and operational duties, especially during peak travel seasons.

Temporary and Seasonal Hospitality Work

Agencies like Measured Ability Group of Companies specialise in supplying temporary hospitality staff during busy seasons. Such as holidays, tourism spikes or major events. These roles are ideal for those seeking flexibility or looking to build experience before moving into a full-time position.

• Popular temporary roles include:
• Festival and event staff
• Holiday resort employees
• Seasonal waiters, cleaners, and chefs

With festive and holiday seasons fast approaching, temporary kitchen and service staff are in high demand.

Start your hospitality career journey with MASA 

Finding your place in South Africa’s dynamic hospitality industry doesn’t have to be a struggle. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just stepping into the world of hotels, restaurants or catering, partnering with a trusted hospitality recruitment agency can open doors that direct applications often can’t.

With deep industry expertise, established employer relationships and access to exclusive job opportunities, agencies like MASA make it faster and easier to secure work that matches your skills, goals and lifestyle. From temporary waiter and chef placements to permanent hotel and lodge roles, MASA’s dedicated recruitment team is ready to connect you with the opportunities that move your career forward.

Visit Measured Ability South Africa (MASA) today to register, submit your CV and take the next step in your hospitality career. 

Breaking into the automotive trade isn’t only about technical ability, but more about positioning yourself where opportunities are most accessible. Many talented mechanics and technicians miss out on great roles simply because they don’t have the right connections or visibility with employers. 

An automotive employment agency bridges this gap by introducing candidates to workshops, dealerships, and service centres actively searching for skilled professionals. For jobseekers, this partnership means less time searching and more time building a rewarding career.

How recruitment agencies help mechanics and technicians

The automotive job market can be both competitive and fragmented, with employers often struggling to find the right mix of skill, certification and experience in candidates. This is where an automotive employment agency plays a vital role. Acting as the bridge between workshops, dealerships and qualified professionals. By tailoring placements to individual strengths and employer needs, recruitment agencies in South Africa not only fill vacancies quickly but also help mechanics and technicians build sustainable, long-term careers.

Trade-tested mechanic placement

In South Africa, trade-tested mechanics are considered the gold standard in automotive recruitment. Employers prefer candidates who have successfully completed their trade test, as this certification proves a technician’s technical competence and ability to work independently.

Automotive employment agencies streamline this process by maintaining a network of pre-screened, trade-tested mechanics ready for immediate placement. This benefits both sides:

• For employers: Agencies provide reliable workers who can “hit the ground running,” reducing downtime in busy workshops or dealerships. This saves businesses from having to invest excessive time in training before productivity can be achieved.
• For candidates: Being connected through an agency means quicker access to stable roles where their skills are in demand, often with better job security than going it alone.

Agencies also ensure that trade-tested mechanics are matched to positions that complement their expertise, whether in diagnostics, mechanical repairs, or specialist technical areas.

Motor technician career pathways

An automotive employment agency doesn’t just stop at placing candidates into available jobs. For many technicians, career development is about progression through levels of responsibility and skill. Agencies support this by:

• Guiding apprentices and juniors into entry-level roles that allow them to gain hands-on training while working toward their trade test.
• Placing mid-level technicians in workshops or dealerships where they can refine their skills, specialise in areas like diagnostics or electronics, and build experience with a wider variety of vehicle systems.
• Helping experienced technicians transition into leadership roles, such as foreman, service manager, or workshop supervisor, where technical ability is combined with team management.

By taking the time to understand each candidate’s ambitions, agencies create structured career pathways that allow technicians to progress steadily, rather than remaining stagnant in repetitive roles.

Opportunities in dealerships vs. independent workshops

One of the biggest questions mechanics face is deciding whether to work in a dealership environment or at an independent workshop. Each has its own advantages, and an agency can guide candidates toward the best fit for their skills and career goals.

Dealership Opportunities

Working in a dealership often means access to structured training, exposure to the latest technologies, and the chance to specialise in a particular car brand. This is an excellent option for technicians who want career stability, advanced diagnostic training and brand-specific expertise.

Independent Workshop Opportunities

On the other hand, independent workshops offer variety and versatility. Technicians often work on multiple brands and models, developing a broad skill set that can be applied across the automotive industry. This environment is ideal for candidates who value flexibility, problem-solving, and hands-on diversity.

A candidate seeking long-term training and career stability may be better suited to a dealership, while someone who enjoys the challenge of working on diverse vehicles may thrive in an independent workshop. 

What Recruiters look for in Mechanics and Technicians CVs

When applying for roles through an automotive employment agency, your CV is often the very first impression recruiters and employers will have of you. Unlike general CVs, a mechanic or technician’s resume must showcase specific technical skills, certifications and practical experience that prove you can step into a workshop or dealership and add value immediately. Recruiters in this industry are detail-oriented, and they look for certain key elements that signal a candidate’s readiness for the job.

1. Verified trade certifications and training

Recruiters want to see clear evidence of qualifications. For mechanics in South Africa, this includes trade test results, National Certificate (NQF levels), or industry-recognised accreditations. Apprentices should highlight training programmes, workshops and any ongoing studies. Employers place high value on verified certifications as they reduce onboarding time and ensure compliance with industry standards.

• Tip: List your certifications prominently, along with the year of completion, and indicate whether they are valid and up to date.

2. Relevant work experience

Hands-on workshop experience carries a lot of weight. Recruiters look for detailed descriptions of past roles, including:

• The types of vehicles you’ve worked on (e.g., passenger cars, commercial fleets, or specialised equipment).
• Specific tasks you’ve handled (diagnostics, engine rebuilds, brake systems, electronic fault finding, etc.).
• The work environments you’ve been exposed to (dealership, independent workshop, panel beating shop, fleet maintenance).

The more specific your experience, the easier it is for recruiters to match you with employers seeking those exact skills.

3. Specialised technical skills

Modern vehicles are increasingly complex, requiring technicians who are adaptable to evolving technologies. Recruiters pay close attention to specialist skills such as:

• Advanced diagnostic and fault-finding using computer systems.
• Knowledge of hybrid or electric vehicle systems.
• Proficiency in air conditioning, transmissions, or suspension systems.
• Bodywork, spray painting, or panel beating expertise.

By highlighting these niche abilities, candidates stand out in a competitive pool of applicants.

4. Consistency and reliability in employment history

High staff turnover can be costly for workshops and dealerships. Recruiters look for candidates with a stable employment record, as it demonstrates reliability, commitment and the ability to adapt to long-term workshop environments. Short stints at multiple employers may raise red flags unless explained—for example, temporary contract work or seasonal employment.

5. Soft skills and work ethic

While technical ability is essential, employers also value personal qualities that contribute to a productive team environment. Recruiters often seek evidence of:

• Good communication and customer service skills.
• The ability to work well in a team as well as independently.
• Problem-solving and adaptability under pressure.
• Punctuality, discipline and a strong safety record.

Including brief examples of these traits in your CV or cover letter helps recruiters see the full picture of your value.

6. Clear, well-structured presentation

A cluttered, hard-to-read CV can undermine even the most qualified candidate. Recruiters prefer concise, well-organised documents that:

• Begin with a professional summary of skills and goals.
• Use bullet points for easy scanning.
• Clearly separate education, certifications, and work history.
• Are kept to 2–3 pages maximum.

Since recruiters often scan dozens of applications daily, a clean format with the right keywords can make your CV stand out quickly.

Take the next step in your automotive career

Breaking into the automotive job market or advancing within it, requires more than just skills under the hood. It takes the right opportunities, the right connections and a CV that highlights your strengths. That’s exactly where an automotive employment agency becomes your partner. By bridging the gap between talented technicians and leading workshops or dealerships, agencies ensure that your career is not just about finding “a job,” but about building a future in the industry.

If you’re a trade-tested mechanic, an apprentice, or a skilled technician ready to move forward, MASA can connect you with employers who value your expertise. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you, let us help you find them.

Start your job search today and submit your CV with MASA

Admin professionals are expected to juggle technology, communication and organisation while acting as the glue that holds entire teams together. This shift means that jobseekers and employees in administrative positions need more than basic office skills. They need the ability to adapt, anticipate needs and prove their value in a changing workplace. If you’re looking to grow in your career or find admin jobs in South Africa, understanding these new expectations is the first step toward standing out and securing long-term success.

The evolving role of Administrative professionals

The image of the administrative professional has changed dramatically over the years. What was once seen as a role focused on answering phones, filing paperwork and managing the office diary has now become a multi-dimensional position that blends technology, people skill and strategic thinking.

Administrative staff are far more than support workers. They are key players in organisational success. Employers increasingly view them as partners who help ensure efficiency, continuity and smooth operations across the business.

Here are some of the ways admin roles have evolved:

Technology coordinators

Modern offices are powered by digital systems, and administrative staff are often the first to manage them. From scheduling software and cloud-based calendars to HR platforms, payroll systems, and project management tools. Admins are the hands-on experts who keep everything running. Employers expect admin professionals to quickly adapt to new technologies and even train others on how to use them effectively.

Information managers

In a world where data accuracy is everything, admin professionals are responsible for keeping records updated and easily accessible. Whether it’s maintaining client databases, organising employee records or ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations. They play a critical role in safeguarding information and ensuring smooth audits or reporting.

Problem-Solvers

No office runs perfectly all the time. Meetings clash, systems go down, suppliers delay deliveries and communication breaks down. This is where admin staff shine, by stepping in to troubleshoot before issues escalate. Employers increasingly value admins who don’t just identify problems, but who bring solutions and keep the business moving without disruption.

Communication nubs

Administrative professionals are often the first point of contact for clients, vendors and even employees. They link executives with their teams, manage internal communication and ensure messages are clear, accurate and delivered on time. With hybrid and remote work becoming more and more common, admins are also the ones coordinating across digital channels, making sure no one is left out of the loop.

 

It is clear that administrative professionals are no longer defined by routine tasks alone. They are expected to be proactive, tech-savvy, adaptable and forward-thinking. But knowing what employers expect is only the first step. To truly stand out and secure opportunities through an administrative recruitment agency in South Africa, you need to actively develop the right mix of skills that set you apart from other candidates. Let’s explore the key skills agencies and employers are looking for in 2025.

 

Building the skills that an Administrative Employment Agency looks for

Recruitment specialists at an administrative employment agency look beyond the basics. They’re scanning for candidates who can adapt, contribute strategically and grow with the organisations they’re placed in.

Here are some of the core skills agencies and employers consistently seek in admin staff.

1. Tech proficiency

In the modern workplace, technology is no longer optional, it’s the foundation of how businesses run. Admin professionals are often the “tech anchors” of the office, ensuring that systems are used effectively and consistently.

To stand out:

• Microsoft Office Suite mastery: Excel for reporting, Word for polished documents, and PowerPoint for executive presentations are still non-negotiables.
• Collaboration platforms: Employers want admins who can manage calendars and meetings through Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, or Slack, often acting as the central coordinator for remote or hybrid teams.
• Project management tools: Familiarity with platforms like Asana, Trello, or ClickUp shows you can help track tasks, deadlines, and workflows, making you more than just a scheduler. You become a project driver.

Highlight any certifications, online courses or practical experience with these tools on your CV. Agencies know employers are looking for candidates who can “hit the ground running” with these digital systems.

2. Communication excellence

As an admin professional, you’re often the first and last point of contact for clients, colleagues and management. That makes communication one of your most powerful skills.

To stand out:

• Professional email writing: Clear, structured messages save time and reflect well on the business.
• Polished phone and video-call etiquette: Whether it’s welcoming a client, setting up a Zoom call, or taking accurate messages, how you communicate shapes the company’s reputation.
• Proactive updates: Don’t wait to be asked. Keeping managers informed about meeting changes, project status or office issues, shows initiative and reliability.

Agencies frequently ask candidates to demonstrate communication skills during interviews or assessments. Practice professionalism in every interaction. It starts the moment you speak with your recruiter.

3. Organisational mastery

Organisation has always been at the heart of administrative work, but today it’s about much more than tidy filing cabinets. Employers want admins who can manage complexity and anticipate problems before they arise.

To stand out:

• Digital scheduling and conflict management: Mastering tools like Outlook or Google Calendar allows you to foresee clashes and create solutions before they cause disruption.
• Document control and compliance: Ensuring records are accurate, up to date and compliant with regulations is a key responsibility that businesses can’t afford to overlook.
• Forward planning: Being two steps ahead, preparing reports before they’re requested or booking resources for an upcoming project, turns you into a trusted, proactive professional.

Share real examples of how your organisational skills prevented costly mistakes or improved efficiency. Agencies love candidates who can demonstrate value with measurable impact.

4. Soft skill superpowers

Hard skills get you in the door, but soft skills are what make you stand out and keep you there. Admin professionals deal with sensitive information, shifting demands and high-pressure situations daily. Agencies and employers want people who handle these challenges with professionalism and confidence.

Key soft skills include:

• Adaptability: Office dynamics change fast, whether it’s last-minute schedule changes or new software rollouts, staying calm and flexible makes you invaluable.
• Discretion: Admins often deal with confidential information about finances, staff, or clients. Employers want someone they can trust implicitly.
• Problem-solving: Instead of passing issues up the chain, standout admins offer practical solutions. Helping the office run smoothly without unnecessary delays.
• Emotional intelligence: Understanding team dynamics and managing relationships diplomatically keeps the workplace collaborative and positive.

Agencies often get feedback from employers about “intangibles.” Demonstrating professionalism, tact and calm under pressure can make the difference between being placed in any role and being recommended for the best opportunities.

Turning your Admin Role into a career advantage

Today’s employers are searching for admin staff who can blend technical know-how with excellent communication, flawless organisation and the kind of soft skills that keep businesses running smoothly.

For jobseekers, this means that success is no longer about doing the basics. By focusing on the skills employers want and partnering with an experienced administrative employment agency, you put yourself in the best position to access exciting opportunities and advance your career. If you’re looking to find admin jobs in South Africa or want to explore how you can grow in your current role, Greys Recruitment are here to help. 

Looking for your next career opportunity while still working full-time can feel like a delicate balancing act but it doesn’t have to be. In today’s job market, more professionals are quietly making career moves without risking their current positions. How? By partnering with a reputable recruitment agency that understands their needs and protects their privacy. 

Whether you’re aiming for career growth, greater flexibility or a better cultural fit, the right agency can open doors to opportunities you’d never find on your own. All while keeping your search completely under the radar. This guide will show you exactly why and how to work with a recruitment agency in South Africa when you’re currently employed, ensuring your next move is strategic, smooth and successful.

Why consider working with a Recruitment Agency while you’re still employed?

If you’re currently employed but quietly exploring your next career move, a recruitment agency can be one of your most valuable allies. Here’s why partnering with one is a smart and strategic step:

1. Gain access to Jobs you won’t find anywhere else

Many companies, especially those hiring for senior, specialized or urgent roles choose not to advertise their vacancies publicly. Instead, they rely solely on recruitment agencies to handle the entire process. These roles are never posted on job boards or company websites. By working with a recruitment agency, you tap into a private job market that’s only accessible through their network, giving you a real advantage over the competition.

2. Keep your job search completely confidential

One of the biggest concerns for employed jobseekers is being discovered by their current employer while looking for a new role. Fortunately, recruitment agencies understand the importance of discretion and are trained to handle your job search with complete confidentiality.

When you register with a professional recruiter, they’ll take the time to understand your background, goals and boundaries. They won’t submit your CV to any employer without your explicit approval. This means you stay in full control of where your information goes, ensuring your job search remains private.

3. Get expert help at no cost to You

One of the biggest benefits of using a recruitment agency is the support you receive, free of charge. From polishing your CV and prepping you for interviews, to guiding you through salary negotiations and sharing market insights, recruiters offer a wealth of knowledge and resources to make you shine as a candidate.

4. Stay ahead of hiring trends in 2025

The job market is evolving rapidly with AI-driven screening, remote work preferences and skills-first hiring becoming the new norm. Recruitment agencies are already tuned into these changes. They help you position yourself in ways that match current hiring standards making you more competitive and future-ready.

How to work with a Recruitment Agency when you’re currently employed

Working with a recruitment agency while you’re employed requires a mix of strategy, professionalism and trust. Here are the essential steps to follow so you can navigate the process smoothly and successfully.

Step 1: Choose the Right Recruitment agency

Not all recruitment agencies are created equal. When you’re currently employed and exploring your next move, it’s crucial to work with an agency that understands your industry, career level and personal goals.

That’s where Greys Recruitment Agency – a trusted division of MASA – sets itself apart. With decades of experience, Greys specializes in placing professionals across a wide range of sectors, including both white-collar and technical industries. Whether you’re in finance, IT, healthcare, engineering, or operations, their diverse sector coverage ensures you’ll be matched with roles that align with your skill set and aspirations.

When selecting an staffing agency, consider the following:

• Look for a proven track record of discreetly placing currently employed professionals.
• Check their reputation through client feedback, testimonials, or industry referrals.
• Confirm their confidentiality process, ensuring that your CV is only shared with your consent.

A reputable agency, like Greys Recruitment, will respect your privacy, work around your availability and present opportunities that truly support your long-term career goals.

Step 2: Be clear about your goals

The more specific you are about your ideal next step, the better a recruiter can help. Before you engage, take time to reflect on:

• Your preferred job titles or functions.
• Salary expectations and benefits.
• Desired work environment (remote, hybrid, office).
• Ideal company culture and values.
• Locations you’re willing to consider.
• Notice period or flexibility in start dates.

This clarity helps your recruiter present opportunities that genuinely align with your goals and lifestyle.

Step 3: Polish your professional profile

Ensure your CV is updated with measurable achievements and skills relevant to today’s hiring needs. Consider updating your LinkedIn profile but adjust your privacy settings to hide profile changes from your network if you’re concerned about your employer noticing.

Ask your recruiter for feedback, they know what hiring managers are currently looking for and can guide you in making your profile stand out, especially in applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Step 4: Be transparent with your recruiter

Establish open, honest communication. Let your recruiter know:

• If you’ve applied to a company already (to avoid double submissions)
• Any upcoming time off or other obligations
• If you’re progressing in interviews elsewhere
• How urgently you’re looking to move

The more you communicate, the more effectively they can represent you and advocate on your behalf.

Step 5: Evaluate opportunities carefully

Once an offer comes through, don’t rush. Discuss it with your recruiter and compare it thoughtfully to your current role:

• Does it meet your long-term career goals?
• Is the compensation package truly competitive?
• Does the company align with your values and work style?
• What is the growth potential?

Recruiters can assist with negotiations, ensuring you get the best possible deal without putting the offer at risk.

Take the next step – confidently and Quietly

Making a career move while still employed doesn’t have to feel risky or overwhelming. With the right recruitment agency by your side, you gain access to exclusive job opportunities, maintain complete privacy and receive expert support every step of the way. Whether you’re seeking a better role, more flexibility or simply want to see what’s out there, working with a trusted partner like Greys Recruitment Agency can make all the difference.

Take control of your career journey today and explore the latest roles tailored to your skills and ambitions. Start your confidential job search now at Measured Ability’s Job Portal.

Standing out in today’s job market means doing more than just polishing your CV, it is about understanding how it’s read before it even reaches human hands. More and more companies are relying on AI-powered systems to sort through applications, automatically screening candidates based on keywords, structure and formatting. 

For jobseekers, especially those navigating a competitive job-hunting landscape, this shift can feel intimidating. But with the right strategy, you can turn this technology to your advantage. In this blog, we’ll show you how to craft a CV that not only gets past the bots, but also leaves a strong impression on the people behind the process.

Why jobseekers must adapt to AI in recruitment

Gone are the days when your application landed directly on a hiring manager’s desk. Today, your first point of contact is likely to be a machine, specifically an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) or an AI-powered screening tool. 

A recent Resume Genius report found that over 75% of companies now use AI tools to screen applicants. In larger corporations and recruitment agencies, that figure jumps even higher. These tools are designed to filter, rank and sort candidates based on preset criteria, long before a human recruiter ever opens a CV.

Here’s how it typically works:

• You submit your CV and cover letter online.
• The system scans your documents for keywords, job titles, qualifications and structure.
• Based on this scan, you receive a score or ranking
• Only top-ranked applications move forward for human review.

In other words, if your application doesn’t speak the AI’s language, it may never reach a recruiter’s inbox.

The jobseeker advantage: Learn the system, beat the system

The good news? You don’t need a computer science degree to succeed here. You just need to:

• Understand what AI looks for (keywords, structure, context).
• Present your strengths in a way that AI recognises and values.
• Maintain your individuality and personality, so when your CV does reach a human, you make a lasting impression.

Those who can master this balance have a real edge, because while many are still submitting the same CV to every job, you’ll be speaking the language of both bots and humans

Step-by-Step Guide to Beating the Bots and Staying Human

By following these clear, practical steps, you can create a CV that passes AI screening and still connects with human recruiters. Whether you’re applying for a permanent job or a short-term role through a recruitment agency in South Africa, these steps will help you stand out, for all the right reasons.

Step 1: Read the job description like a recruiter

Before you even begin typing your CV, pause and carefully analyse the job post.

 

Here’s how to approach it:

1.Highlight the job title exactly as written.

Example: If the title says “Administrative Assistant,” don’t change it to “Office Clerk” on your CV. AI systems match exact phrasing.

2. Underline key responsibilities and verbs in the description.

These are the tasks the employer values most, like “organise schedules,” “maintain records,” or “handle client queries.”

3. Identify soft skills and values the company is looking for.

Words like “collaboration,” “adaptability,” “self-starter,” or “attention to detail” often signal company culture priorities.

4. Make a list of these keywords and phrases in a notebook or separate document.

This list becomes your reference as you tailor your CV.

Goal: Naturally include these phrases throughout your CV, especially in your work experience and summary. To be clear,  you’re not just copying what is in the job description, you’re aligning the skills you already have with what the recruiters are looking for. 

Step 2: Use an ATS-Friendly resume format

Your amazing experience won’t matter if the system can’t read your CV. That’s why it’s so important to use a format that AI understands and avoids confusion.

Do

• Save your CV as a .docx (Microsoft Word) file. This format is universally readable by applicant tracking systems.
• Stick to basic fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in size 10–12.
• Use clear, simple section headings: Professional Summary, Work Experience, Education and Skills
• Organise jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position.
• Use bullet points for responsibilities and achievements.

Avoid

• Fancy templates, columns, or resume builders with complex layouts.
• Tables, graphics, logos, emojis, or pictures of yourself.
• Saving your CV as a PDF unless the job post specifically requests it.

Goal: Make your CV easy for both the system and the recruiter to read. Clean formatting = higher chances of getting seen.

It might seem tempting to get creative with your CV design, especially with all the fancy templates available online but remember: AI screening software isn’t impressed by visuals. In fact, flashy design elements often do more harm than good.

Here’s why:

• Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are programmed to read plain text. When you insert tables, columns, icons, graphics, or non-standard fonts, the system can misread or skip over key sections entirely.
• For example, if your job titles are in a coloured text box or your contact details are inside a header, the ATS might not see them at all, which means your application could be flagged as incomplete.
• Even recruiters, when they eventually review CVs, appreciate clarity over clutter. A clean layout lets them scan quickly, find relevant information fast, and make decisions without confusion.

The golden rule? Keep it simple, structured and straight to the point. You can always bring your creativity into your interview or your portfolio.

Step 3: Optimise for Keywords without sounding like a robot

Yes, keywords are important but how you use them is even more critical. You can’t just list the keyword as you found them on the job description, you have to demonstrate them.

Examples of what not to do  (keyword stuffing)

•  “Communication, teamwork, data entry, multitasking, Microsoft Excel.”

Example of what you should do (action + context + keyword):

• “Worked closely with a five-person team to manage and update Excel-based inventory records, ensuring accuracy during monthly audits.”

Here’s how to do it:

• Use action verbs like led, coordinated, created, improved, supported, designed, or resolved.
• Quantify your impact wherever possible: “Reduced data entry errors by 20%.” or “Handled 100+ customer queries weekly with 98% satisfaction rate.”
• Tailor each bullet to reflect what the employer is asking for.

Goal: Don’t just list your skills, prove them in action. AI systems look for the right keywords, but real hiring decisions are made by people who want to see how you’ve applied those skills. Instead of just saying you’re “a good communicator” or “team-oriented,” give examples that demonstrate it. When you describe the context, actions and results of your work, you not only pass the AI test, you impress the human reader with your value.

Step 4: Write a professional summary that sounds like you

This is your moment to introduce yourself, briefly and authentically. The Professional Summary sits right at the top of your CV and gives both the bot and the human a taste of your value.

Keep it:

• Short and punchy (2–4 lines).
• Specific to your experience (mention years, industries, strengths).
• Sprinkled with personality (one line that reflects who you are).

Example

• “Organised and energetic office administrator with 5+ years’ experience supporting busy legal teams. Skilled in calendar management, MS Office, and client communication. Outside of work, I run a weekly community food drive in Durban.”

Goal: Capture the recruiter’s attention from the start by blending professional credibility with a hint of your personality. A strong, authentic summary shows you’re not just qualified but also someone worth getting to know.

Technology helps but people still hire people

While it’s essential to understand how AI and ATS systems work, it’s just as important to remember that real people still make the final hiring decisions. Tools may help recruiters sort through applications faster, but they don’t replace human judgment, instinct, or connection.

At Greys Recruitment Agency, we embrace the efficiencies that technology offers, but we don’t rely on it alone. Every CV we review is evaluated by experienced professionals who understand that a great candidate is more than just a keyword match. We look for skill, potential and personality, things no algorithm can truly measure.

So, as a jobseeker, make sure your CV speaks the language of AI and reflects who you truly are. Use the tips we’ve shared to craft an application that gets noticed but never lose sight of your unique strengths and the human touch that makes you hire able.

And if you need a recruitment agency who values people first, you’ll find it with Greys. Let’s find your next job opportunity together.