First Recruiting

A veteran recruiter with 38 years in the business shares the one cover letter that made him pick up the phone immediately.

What made it so memorable? It told a story. It connected the applicant’s experience to the role in a striking, authentic way.

What’s one way you try to make your cover letter more than just a summary of your résumé?

I've been a recruiter for 38 years. This is the one cover letter I'll never forget. I called the guy's number right away. I didn't even read his résumé. This is the only cover letter I've ever responded to like this.

When every applicant is polished to perfection, how do you stay real?
This article argues that AI-enhanced headshots and profiles are becoming the norm in job applications.
Is this a level playing field… or does it raise new questions about authenticity and what “professional” even means?

AI headshots are changing the way job seekers are seen and get hired in tough labor market In a competitive job market, a good headshot can make a big difference. That's leading to a wave of AI headshots on LinkedIn and other hiring platforms.

https://www.cnbc.com/2025/10/08/how-ai-is-poised-to-disrupt-the-job-market.html

AI is poised to disrupt the job market — some roles could 'radically transform,' report finds Artificial intelligence is most likely to impact white-collar jobs, while those requiring more physical labor and intervention are relatively insulated.