Dos and Don’ts for Using Artificial Intelligence in Your Job Search
Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we do pretty much everything — including resumes, cover letters, and networking messages. Leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT, Jobscan, and Grammarly can save you lots of time and help you stand out in a competitive job market.
However, you must approach it wisely. Using AI tools correctly can take your job search to the next level… but using them incorrectly can do more harm than good. Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind if you decide to use AI as part of your job search process:
Five “Dos” for Using AI During Your Job Search
1. Do Use AI for Grammar and Spell Check
AI-powered tools like Grammarly can catch grammatical errors and typos, ensuring your resume and cover letter are polished and professional. They offer a free extension tool you can install on your internet browser and I highly recommend doing this!
2. Do Personalize Your Content
I recommend using AI tools to generate ideas, but you should always take time to personalize your content. Highlight your unique experiences and tailor your application to the specific job you're applying for. You don’t want your writing to sound generic and robotic.
3. Do Optimize for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
AI can help you identify keywords from job descriptions and incorporate them into your resume. Tools like Jobscan can analyze your resume against a job posting and suggest improvements to increase your chances of passing ATS screenings.
4. Do Use LinkedIn’s Built-In AI Tools
It’s no secret that I love LinkedIn, and now I love them even more because they’re using AI in such a smart way. As a premium member, you can use their built-in AI tool to make your profile headline and summary stand out, write messages to recruiters, and more!
5. Do Use AI for Formatting
AI tools can help you create visually appealing and well-structured resumes. Platforms like Canva offer AI-assisted templates that can make your resume stand out aesthetically. It might not seem like the most important thing, but in a competitive market, everything matters!
Five “Don’ts” for Using AI During Your Job Search
1. Don’t Rely Solely on AI Tools like ChatGPT
While AI can help you write great emails, resumes, and cover letters, it’s important that you don’t get too dependent on these tools. If possible, ask a few people to read over your final draft before you submit it so you can get feedback from those who know you.
2. Don’t Misrepresent Your Skills or Experience
AI tools can sometimes suggest enhancements to your resume and cover letter that might stretch the truth. It's crucial to be honest about your skills and experiences. Misrepresenting yourself can lead to serious consequences if you’re hired and unable to perform as expected.
3. Don’t Forget to Proofread
Even the best AI tools can (and do) make mistakes. Always proofread anything you create or have someone else review it to catch errors that might have been missed. Also, keep in mind that AI tools like ChatGPT can’t access data before 2023.
4. Don’t Depend Solely on AI for Job Recommendations
While AI-powered job recommendation tools can be incredibly useful in identifying potential opportunities, relying on them too much can limit your job search scope. These tools might miss unique or niche job listings that don’t fit their algorithms perfectly.
5. Don’t Ignore the Human Touch
AI can help you with the basics, but it isn’t going to be able to add that personal touch that will help you stand out in a sea of competitors. Make sure to include why you’re passionate about the role and specific ways you align with the company’s values and culture.
As a career coach, I think it’s okay to use AI tools to write your resume and cover letter… as long as you do it right. By following the dos and don’ts mentioned above, you can create materials that showcase your qualifications and help you land your dream job.
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