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January 17, 2026 3 min read

AI Job Applications Are Everywhere. Here’s How to Stand Out

How AI Has Increased Job Application Competition

AI has dramatically changed hiring. While it helps recruiters process volume, it has also increased application numbers. McKinsey reports that AI-assisted applications have significantly expanded candidate pools, intensifying competition (McKinsey, 2024).

Why Generic AI Applications Fail to Impress Hiring Managers

Hiring managers increasingly report that AI-generated resumes and cover letters feel generic and interchangeable. Harvard Business Review notes that while AI improves efficiency, it often removes personal nuance from applications (HBR, 2024). As a result, many well-written applications still fail to make an impression.

The Advantage of Combining AI With Human Outreach

The strongest candidates use AI as a support tool, not a replacement for human connection. A personalised message sent to the right decision maker immediately stands out in a sea of automated submissions.

How to Skip the Line and Reach Decision Makers Directly

Instead of competing with hundreds of AI-assisted applications, candidates using Plexicore focus on identifying the right contacts and starting direct conversations. This approach helps skip the line and reach interview stages faster.

Ready to put this into practice?

Plexicore helps you identify the right hiring managers and reach out with confidence.