5 Tips for Using AI in the Job Hunt

By Tiana Lavingia, MSW

In today's job market, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) can be a game changer for job seekers. With tools like ChatGPT and Copilot becoming increasingly popular, many candidates are turning to AI for assistance in their job search. However, there's a fine line between using AI as a helpful partner and allowing it to replace your unique voice and experience.

Understanding the AI Landscape in Job Hunting

As a career coach and HR consultant, I've witnessed the growing reliance on AI tools among job seekers. During a recent hiring process for a technical role, my client received over 1,100 applications within just 24 hours. While the volume of applicants appeared exciting, a closer look at the resumes raised significant concerns. Many candidates resorted to using AI to craft their applications, leading to a pool of resumes that often sounded alarmingly similar.

The Importance of Authenticity

One striking example involved two candidates whose resumes listed identical job experiences and outcomes, despite being from different states with different names. This highlighted the risks of over-relying on AI-generated content, as resumes lost their personal touch and authenticity. Your job application should reflect your unique journey; it should not read like a template. Recruiters can easily spot inauthentic language, which can result in a lack of trust in your qualifications.

Common Pitfalls of Using AI

1. Over-reliance on AI:

Relying too heavily on AI tools can lead to generic, robotic resumes that fail to convey your individual experiences. For instance, using phrases like "improved system performance" without infusing personal metrics can diminish impact.

2. Mass Applications:

Candidates often use AI to apply to numerous jobs simultaneously, which can backfire. This approach can dilute the quality of applications and lead to a negative impression among recruiters.

3. Copying and Pasting:

Many applicants fall into the trap of copying AI-generated content verbatim, resulting in resumes that lack personal insight and creativity.

Strategies for Effective AI Use

To harness the power of AI without sacrificing your authenticity, consider these strategies:

1. Use AI as an Editor, Not an Author:

Prepare your resume in your own voice and use AI tools to refine and enhance your content. For example, after drafting your resume, you can seek feedback from AI on how to improve specific bullet points.

2. Infuse Personal Impact:

When describing your achievements, add specific metrics that showcase your contributions. Instead of saying you "improved system performance," specify how you reduced costs by a certain percentage.

3. Provide Detailed Prompts:

When working with AI, give clear and specific instructions. For example, instead of asking it to write a resume, instruct it to rewrite specific bullet points with defined outcomes.

4. Maintain Your Authentic Voice:

Read your resume aloud to ensure it sounds like you. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to confirm that your voice comes through.

5. Apply with Intention:

Focus on quality over quantity. Tailor your applications to specific roles that align with your skills and interests instead of mass applying using ChatGPT.

Conclusion:

As job seekers navigate a competitive landscape, using AI cannot only streamline the application process but also enhance it when done correctly. The key is to ensure that your unique experiences and voice shine through in your resume. By leveraging AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for your individuality, you can improve your job search outcomes while maintaining authenticity.

Check out my podcast episode to hear more about that wild applicant pool with over 1,100 applicants: