What ‘AI Experience’ Actually Means in 2025 Job Ads: The No BS Guide

The no-BS candidate guide from MRJ Wondering if you’re meant to know how to code with AI? Trying to decide if using ChatGPT and Copilot is enough? Or if “AI experience” just means sounding techy on your CV?

The no-BS candidate guide from MRJ

• Wondering if you’re meant to know how to code with AI?
• Trying to decide if using ChatGPT and Copilot is enough?
• Or if “AI experience” just means sounding techy on your CV?

You’re not alone. Every other job ad now mentions AI. But ask ten hiring managers what that means, and you’ll get ten different answers.

Some expect product teams to use AI tools to speed up delivery. Others think engineers should understand machine learning. A few just want to sound modern. No wonder so many candidates are confused.

Our latest guide breaks it down. Built from real recruiter conversations across product, software, and engineering recruitment, it explains how “AI experience” is being used in job specs, what employers are really looking for, and how to position your skills with confidence.

Why this Report Matters

AI has become the fastest-growing skill mention in UK tech job ads, up by more than 70% in 2024. Yet only a fraction of those roles involve genuine AI work.

For candidates, that means confusion and wasted energy — unsure whether to chase new certifications or whether they’re already qualified.

For hiring teams, it means inconsistent expectations and unclear job descriptions.

73% of employers say they’d hire a less experienced candidate who shows AI awareness over one who doesn’t.

But most still admit they’re not sure what “AI experience” actually means.

This guide cuts through the noise. It shows how AI language is creeping into product, software, and engineering recruitment, what companies are really assessing, and where you should focus your development to stay competitive in 2025.

Specialist recruiter insight

“We’re seeing employers include AI in job specs to make roles sound current. But most aren’t using it in any meaningful way yet. The strongest candidates can show curiosity and practical application, not just talk about tools.”

 — MRJ consultant

That’s the reality MRJ sees every day in product and engineering recruitment.

AI talk is everywhere, but genuine AI hiring is still rare. The best candidates know how to interpret job specs and show where they’ve used AI to make their work more efficient — whether that’s improving testing pipelines, automating analysis, or speeding up documentation.

What’s inside the guide

1. The truth behind “AI experience”

Why AI suddenly appears in every tech job description and what’s driving it.

2. Product vs Engineering expectations

How hiring managers define “AI skills” differently across Product Management, Software Development, and QA.

3. Decoding the language

“AI-first mindset.” “Prompt engineering.” “LLM familiarity.” We explain what these terms actually mean and when they matter.

4. Framing your experience

How to talk about AI use in your workflow — from small automations to full integrations — and sound credible doing it.

5. The 2025 outlook

How AI tools, automation, and role design will shape product and software recruitment over the next year.

For who?

This guide is designed for:

• Product Managers, Product Owners, UX/UI Designers, and Business Analysts
• Software Engineers, Developers, QA, and DevOps specialists
• Anyone navigating job specs where AI keeps showing up

Whether you’re mid-career or just getting started, this will help you recognise real opportunities and avoid wasting time on roles that don’t make sense.

Why download it

This isn’t a trend piece or another empty “future of work” story. It’s a grounded, recruiter-led view of how AI is shaping the product and engineering job market right now.

You’ll come away with:

• A clear understanding of how AI language is being used in tech job ads
• Straightforward advice on how to position your skills
• Confidence in where to invest your energy next

Download your copy today and stop guessing what “AI experience” means. Learn what hiring teams are actually asking for in 2025 — and how to make it work for you.

Further reading from MRJ

Should I Be Learning AI Tools? Honest Answers for Engineers and Product People

Real talk on which tools matter and how they’re shaping hiring in 2025.

Prompt Engineering and Panic: What Hiring Managers Are Really Asking For

How AI is changing recruitment language across tech — and what that means for candidates.

FAQs

Is this guide only for engineers?

No. It’s written for anyone in Product, Software, or Digital roles where AI expectations are creeping into job specs.

Do I need AI skills to get a tech job now?

Not necessarily. Most roles still prioritise curiosity and adaptability over deep technical expertise. The guide explains which jobs genuinely require AI knowledge and which just mention it.

Does MRJ recruit for AI-specific jobs?

Yes. MRJ works with fast-growth companies hiring across AI, Product, and Software. We help candidates who want clarity on the roles that genuinely fit their skills.

Will this help me decide what to learn next?

Yes. The report includes practical advice on which AI-related skills are worth exploring and how to showcase them in your job search.

About MRJ Recruitment

MRJ connects exceptional Product, Digital, and Engineering talent with fast-growth tech businesses across the UK and Europe.
Our consultants understand how AI and automation are reshaping the industry and how candidates can stay ahead in a changing market.

[Download the guide]