How to Stand Out to Employers in 2025 : Insights from Talent Leaders

In a recent Step Up Series webinar exclusive to RMIT Online students, Emma McLay, Human Resources Director at Ticketmaster, and Matt Woodard, Founder of Scalr and long-time recruitment leader, shared practical advice for professionals who want to get noticed and hired.

One of the strongest trends shaping the future of recruitment is the shift to skills-based hiring. Rather than focusing solely on qualifications or job titles, employers are mapping out the competencies needed for specific roles.

Emma highlighted her own career shift from molecular biology to HR leadership as an example of transferable skills:

“I may not be in a lab, but I’m definitely using analytical thinking and attention to detail every day when I’m reviewing contracts or policies.”

Matt agreed, adding that organisations are using skills frameworks not only to hire but also to retain talent: 

“How can you support someone to grow into a slightly different area? It’s a great way to retain staff and create meaningful development pathways.”

Candidates today are prioritising flexibility, hybrid work options, and company culture. Emma explained that the focus has moved beyond culture “fit” to culture enhancement:

“Think about the values a candidate brings to the company - teamwork, belonging, inclusion. It’s not just about fitting in; it’s about elevating culture.”

But she cautioned against leading with flexibility questions in an interview:

“Don’t go into an interview asking about flexibility as your first question. Show interest in the role first then discuss balance.” 

The rise of AI has transformed both how candidates apply and how employers screen. Cover letters and CVs often show signs of heavy AI use, something that can backfire.

Emma noted: “Candidates are coming across like newsreaders, reading AI-generated scripts. Hiring managers see through it. Authenticity really matters.”

Matt echoed this sentiment:  “It’s fine to use AI as a starting point, but don’t let it be the end point. Insert your personality, your own experiences. That’s what makes you stand out.”

Both speakers emphasised that CVs should highlight value, not just duties.

Matt put it bluntly: “Employers already know what a Marketing Coordinator does. What we want to see is the value you added, processes you improved, money you saved, initiatives you led.”

Emma added that CVs should reflect your profession: “If you’re a designer, I expect a CV that looks creative. Use tools like Canva, make it relevant to your field.”

Is it bad if you’ve been in one role for years without a promotion? Not necessarily.

Emma explained the benefits of tenure: “If a candidate’s been in a role for five years, they’ve probably seen a lot of change and ridden the waves. That can be just as valuable as quick upward moves.”

Matt added that expectations vary: “In some industries, if you don’t go up, you go out. But in tech, people often move sideways into new streams like leadership or technical specialisation.”

Beyond CVs and applications, both speakers emphasized the importance of networking and being proactive inside your current organization.

Matt’s advice was simple: “Find your people, find your events. Build networks and relationships. That’s what helps people keep getting jobs.”

Emma stressed the importance of speaking up about career interests: “Put yourself forward for open positions in your company. Talk to HR. If people know you’re interested, opportunities will come.”

The session wrapped with one clear message: authenticity, proactivity, and adaptability are what will make candidates stand out in 2025.

Whether it’s tailoring your CV to show the value you’ve delivered, networking in your industry, or preparing for interviews without leaning too heavily on AI, the consistent theme is being real, curious, and ready to learn.

As Emma summed up: “Don’t rule yourself out of roles. Apply, be authentic, and put yourself out there.”

And Matt’s final word of advice: “Network, connect, and understand the challenges in your industry, that’s what positions you for the future.”

As an RMIT Online student, you get exclusive access to Step Up Series – live conversations with thought leaders sharing expert insights and actionable strategies to accelerate your career.