AI has flooded the hiring process. Resumes, cover letters, even interview answers—too many look like they’ve been spit out of the same chatbot. Seasoned recruiters (like my team and I at  WayPoint Consulting Partners) see it every day. However, the feedback we hear from our clients across the country is that most hiring authorities crave authenticity—real talk, real moments, and  real people.

"Here’s the truth: when everyone sounds the same, authenticity becomes the ultimate differentiator." Kari Ellis

That’s why “old-school” career transition strategies are making a comeback. Paper résumés are landing on desks again. In-person interviews are being prioritized over Zoom. Even quirky interview questions are resurfacing—not to trip candidates up, but to reveal how they really think. If you’re ready to rise above the AI noise and stand out, this LinkedIn blog offers three smart moves to help you gain—and keep—your competitive edge.

For career seekers in the Financial Services field, this shift is more than a trend—it’s a big opportunity. The hiring process may be influenced by AI filters, but most decision-makers are still people who value authenticity. Employers are no longer impressed by cookie-cutter résumés or overly polished, AI-drafted bullet points that blur candidates together. Instead, they’re leaning into what can’t be automated: individuality, effort, and genuine connection.

Three Moves that Still Stop Hiring Authorities in Their Tracks

• Make It Count When You Show Up: A printed résumé, a professional portfolio, or even a handwritten thank-you note can signal intentionality and effort. In a world where most candidates rely solely on “click-to-apply,” these small, personal touches often demonstrate preparation, pride, and genuine interest in the role.

• Communicate Without a Script: AI can polish answers, but it can’t replicate your personality or unique perspective. Hiring authorities want to see how you think on your feet, how you’ve overcome challenges, and what you’ve actually learned from experience. A candid story about solving a tough client issue or navigating a high-stakes project makes you memorable—and human.

• Prove Skills, Not Just Degrees: In the current Financial Services job market, hiring has shifted toward a skills-first mindset. Candidates who demonstrate their value often rise above those who simply list credentials. The best way to do this is through stories—share the what (your accomplishment), the how (the steps you took), and the result (the measurable benefit to your employer). Whether it’s showcasing analytical ability, regulatory expertise, or the communication skills that turn complex data into clear decisions, real-world stories in an interview carry far more weight than tired résumé buzzwords.

The job market may be evolving with AI and automation, but at the end of the day, people hire people. Career seekers who bring substance, communicate with authenticity, and showcase real skills will always stand out. Outsmarting the bots isn’t about tricking the system—it’s about proving your value in ways technology can’t replicate. So, as you prepare for your next career opportunity, remember: old-school moves still win when they highlight the one thing no algorithm can copy—YOU.

📌 BLOG CONCLUSION: Technology may run the filters, but people still make the hiring decisions. If you want to outsmart the bots, lean into what tech can’t replicate—your human touch, your unique voice, and your ability to connect.