Careers advice
Your job application cheat sheet: free AI tools to help you get started
Better with tools than a keyboard? Our new AI tools take the pain out of your next job application.
Last updated: 10 September 2025
We know writing and updating a CV can often feel like a chore. You know you’re great at your job, but trying to get all that experience down on paper in a way that sounds professional is a real challenge. We get it.
That’s why we’re always on the lookout for things that make the job hunt a bit easier.
We’ve teamed up with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to share free tools that are a game-changer for the job hunt.
Let AI do the heavy lifting
You’ve probably heard about AI (Artificial Intelligence) lately. Think of it as a smart assistant that can help with tricky tasks, like writing your CV and cover letter.
An AI tool, like Te Heke Mai, can take your notes about your work history and turn them into professional-sounding sentences. It helps you find the right words so you can show recruiters exactly what you’re capable of, without spending hours staring at a blank page.
Building a stand-out CV with AI
Your CV is your first chance to make a good impression. It needs to be clear, professional, and easy for a hirer to scan quickly. The AI CV builder from Te Heke Mai helps you get this right.
It’s especially good at translating your practical, on-the-job experience into the kind of language employers want to see. For example, it can help you turn a simple point like "drove a digger" into something more detailed, like "Operated heavy machinery with a focus on site safety and efficiency." This gives a much better picture of your skills.
The tool helps you structure your CV properly and makes sure you include all the important sections, from your contact details to your work history.
Writing a cover letter that gets noticed
While your CV lists your skills, your cover letter is where you can show a bit of personality and explain why you’re the right person for this specific job. A good cover letter can be the difference between getting an interview or being overlooked.
If you’re not sure where to start, the AI cover letter builder is a fantastic way to break through writer's block. It can generate a solid first draft that you can then edit. It will help you structure your letter and suggest ways to connect your experience to the requirements listed in the job ad. It’s a great way to get your key points down so you can focus on adding the personal touches.
Adding your personal touch
Using an AI tool is a brilliant way to get started, but the final edit should always be yours. Once the tool has generated a draft for you, take a few minutes to make it sound like you.
- For your CV: Double-check that all the details, especially dates and job titles, are spot on. Add a specific example or a number if you can – like the size of a team you worked in or a project you helped finish ahead of schedule.
- For your cover letter: This is your chance to show genuine interest. Mention something specific about the company that you admire or why you're excited about this particular role. Make sure the tone reflects your personality.
- Read it all aloud: This is a great trick to catch any sentences that don't sound natural or to spot any pesky typos.
A little bit of personal polish on an AI-generated draft is the perfect recipe for an application that stands out for all the right reasons.
So, if writing your CV has been sitting on your to-do list for way too long, give this a go. It can help you get a solid draft sorted in no time, so you can focus on the important part: applying for jobs you’re excited about.
Ready to put that freshly polished CV to use? Start your search on Trade Me Jobs today.
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