Dear Student, How to Stand Out in a Competitive Graduate Recruitment Market.
Dear Student, How to Stand Out in a Competitive Graduate Recruitment Market.
For another year in a row, employers are receiving record numbers of applications for graduate and internship opportunities. We're sharing our advice with you and want to hear your thoughts on graduate employment opportunities - share your thoughts here.
Graduate recruitment in New Zealand has never been more competitive. With the current challenging economic conditions, a number of employers are making the difficult decision to reduce the number of graduate roles available while some programmes have been put on hold altogether. Students are keenly aware of this dynamic and as a result are making more applications. In March 2025, some employers have reported a 100% increase in application numbers compared to the same period last year.
That’s not great news for employers or students. For employers, excessive application numbers create administration and process challenges. For students, it can lead to longer recruitment processes and can make it harder to stand out from the crowd.
Here are our top tips for students to get ahead of the pack.
1. Avoid Generic AI-Generated Responses
Many applicants are turning to AI tools like ChatGPT to draft their responses. While AI can be useful for structuring answers or checking grammar and spelling, recruiters can easily spot when a response has been copied and pasted from a generic prompt. AI-generated answers often lack personality, specificity, and a true sense of your views and values. Use AI as a starting point but make sure your final answer is in your own words, reflecting your own insights and experiences.
2. Complete Every Section of the Application Form
Some graduates make the mistake of skipping sections of an application form, assuming they are optional or less important. However, most employers collect a range of data points to evaluate candidates holistically. Incomplete applications may suggest a lack of attention to detail or motivation. Take the time to provide thoughtful responses in every section.
3. Prepare for AI-Assisted Video Interviews
Just as candidates are using AI to support their applications, employers are using AI to help them evaluate those applications. While AI-driven processes are less common in New Zealand for graduate recruitment, many tools like video interview software will now provide employers with a rating to guide them towards the strongest responses. This rating can be based on your eye contact, keywords, and even facial expressions.
Practice makes perfect so ensure you:
· Maintain eye contact with the camera
· Speak clearly and confidently.
· Use structured answers (e.g., STAR method)
· Avoid long pauses or filler words.
Practice video interviews by recording yourself and watching them back to help you feel more comfortable with this format of question and answer.
4. Highlight Your Achievements with Specific Examples
Many candidates use vague statements like "I have great teamwork skills" or "I am a hard worker." Instead, stand out by providing specific examples that demonstrate these qualities. For instance, "During my internship at XYZ Company, I led a project that improved process efficiency by 20%, demonstrating my ability to work collaboratively and drive results." Measurable achievements make your application more compelling and credible.
5. Tailor Every Application to the Role
Applying to multiple jobs? That’s fine—but don’t send the same generic application to every employer. Employers want to see that you understand their company and the specific role. Mention why you're interested in that particular organisation and how your skills align with their values and mission. A personalised application always stands out over a copy-paste approach.
Final Thoughts
With the high volume of applications this year, standing out requires effort, authenticity, and preparation. Use AI wisely, complete all sections of applications, refine your video interview technique, prepare an arsenal of strong examples of where you have demonstrated key skills (teamwork, leadership etc), and tailor your applications. By doing so, you’ll increase your chances of securing a graduate role that aligns with your skills and aspirations. Good luck!
Finally - don't miss your chance to have your say in the biggest national survey of students in New Zealand – the National Student Pulse Survey 2025. This is your chance to shape the future of graduate recruitment in New Zealand. It just takes 10 minutes - and there are great prizes to be won!
