UK recruiters move beyond CVs as AI focuses on potential

Recruiters in the UK are moving away from the reliance on traditional CVs, as automation and artificial intelligence continue to reshape the way talent is identified and assessed. The Head of Talent Acquisition at La Fosse, Karina Oluwo, says that technology is prompting a long-awaited change in what employers look for during the hiring process.

Shifting priorities

Oluwo highlights that the standard CV often serves more as a record of past roles and access to opportunity rather than being a reliable indicator of genuine ability or future potential. She states, "Automation is helping us see people for their real potential, not their past. CVs can hide talent as much as reveal it. They tell you where someone's been, not where they can go."

AI-driven assessments are enabling recruiters to evaluate skills such as problem-solving and communication, as well as overall mindset. These qualities are difficult to capture through a CV, but data-driven tools now offer a more rounded view of what candidates can achieve.

More equal access

For those seeking their first roles, particularly graduates and early-career applicants, automated processes are helping to address the challenge of standing out without an extensive employment record. Technology now allows candidates to be assessed on the same objective criteria, independent of previous work history.

"Everyone starts from the same line. We've seen how automation uncovers exceptional talent that might otherwise be overlooked," said Oluwo.

Reducing bias

According to Oluwo, several elements often found on traditional CVs - such as names, education institutions, or gaps in employment - can trigger unconscious bias during screening. Automated tools can filter candidate information to exclude these variables, allowing assessments that prioritise aptitude and future performance.

"Automation doesn't replace human judgement. It strengthens it. Technology gives us the data - people still make the decisions," said Oluwo.

Candidate experience

Many jobseekers find compiling a CV a difficult and sometimes exclusive process. Automated, skills-based assessments make the process more interactive and accessible, allowing candidates to present their abilities rather than simply describing them. Oluwo notes, "Assessing based on skills is faster, fairer, and gives hiring teams immediate, consistent insight into capability and fit."

Skills-first approaches

Employers are increasingly focusing on skills, aptitude, and potential in hiring decisions. La Fosse has already eliminated CVs from its Academy and entry-level roles, relying instead on automated behavioural and technical assessments. As a result, recruitment teams report broader access to candidates and improved long-term success rates.

"As technology evolves, recruitment has to evolve with it. The future belongs to organisations that hire for potential, not paperwork," said Oluwo.