There’s no denying it—AI has arrived in recruitment. One of the latest trends we’re seeing is candidates using AI tools to re-engineer their CVs so they read like a perfect match for a role in SAP, data, or cyber security. On the surface, it looks clever. In practice, it can be risky.
Take SAP, for example. A candidate recently applied for an S/4HANA MM Consultant position. Their CV was spot on – keywords, modules, integration points. But their LinkedIn told another story, with little evidence of S/4HANA experience. Assessment confirmed it: they had never worked on live MM integration.
Cyber security is seeing the same pattern. One applicant submitted a CV filled with SOC tooling and incident response projects. It looked brilliant until the interview revealed they had never operated a SIEM platform in practice.
The outcome is far from positive: valuable time is wasted, trust is undermined, and genuine opportunities are lost. Clients begin to doubt the process, candidates risk damaging their professional credibility, and recruiters are left managing unnecessary setbacks.
So what’s the alternative?
- Be clear and authentic. If you’re an SAP FI/CO Consultant, highlight the real-world projects that make you relevant. If you’re a data engineer eyeing security, show where your SQL or cloud skills transfer.
- Avoid constant reinvention. Rewriting your career for every job description will catch up with you. Agencies and clients track CVs across systems, you don’t want a reputation for inconsistency.
- Focus on transferable strengths. A career pivot is fine – fabricating experience is not. Be upfront, and employers will value honesty over embellishment.
The SAP, data, and cyber markets are hotter than ever – but let’s be clear: AI won’t get you hired. Authenticity will. Candidates who try to game the system with over-engineered CVs don’t just risk rejection; they risk burning bridges and damaging their reputation. The professionals who secure the best roles are the ones who can back up every line on their CV with real expertise, credibility, and impact. Anything less is a short-term play with long-term consequences.
