How People Use AI for Their Job Search

By Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter

Here are some ways people are using AI tools in their job search:

• Optimize your resume
  • Use AI resume builders like Enhance CV or My Perfect Resume to create an ATS-friendly resume. An ATS, or applicant tracking system, is software used by recruiters to filter candidates. These builders will format your resume to be read by the ATS and provide prompts to help you articulate your skills and experience.
  • You can also use ChatGPT to optimize your existing resume for ATS compatibility. Simply paste your resume and the job description into ChatGPT and it will update your resume with relevant keywords and experience. It can also create a professional summary if you don’t have one.
  • Make sure to structure your resume so the most important information is in the top rows and formatted left to right, as this is easier for both ATS systems and human eyes to read. You can further optimize your resume by matching the order of the bullet points in your resume to the order of the requirements in the job description, as job descriptions typically list desired qualifications in order of priority.
  • Condense each bullet point to be succinct and highlight important keywords from the job description.
• Create a cover letter
  • Use ChatGPT to automatically generate a cover letter based on your resume and the job description. You can ask ChatGPT to adjust the tone and length of the letter as needed.
  • When writing your cover letter, use ChatGPT to write a brief paragraph explaining why you are interested in the role, why you are a good fit, and asking to be directed to the appropriate hiring manager.
• Research companies and connect with hiring managers
  • Use ChatGPT and LinkedIn to identify and connect with hiring managers. Paste the job description into ChatGPT and ask for the name of the hiring manager. Then, search the company’s LinkedIn page for people with relevant director or manager level positions in HR, as well as people in a similar role to the one you are applying for at a senior level. Send them the message you created with ChatGPT.
  • Research company values and tailor your application materials to reflect those values. Use ChatGPT to create a career accomplishments presentation that highlights your relevant skills and experience and how they align with the company’s values. Include metrics to demonstrate the impact you have made in previous roles.
• Practice for your interview
  • Use ChatGPT to run through potential interview questions based on your resume and the job description. You can ask ChatGPT to score your answers and suggest areas for improvement.
  • Consider practicing for interviews for jobs you don’t plan on taking to gain experience and become more comfortable with the process.
• Strategize your application schedule
  • According to one former HR professional and recruiter, the best days to apply for jobs are Mondays and Tuesdays, as these are the days when recruiters are most likely to be reviewing applications. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, you can take a break from applying and focus on other activities, such as networking or working on a side hustle. You can then review any reposted jobs on Friday. This strategy can help you manage your time and mental health during the job search.

It’s important to note that these are just a few examples of how people are using AI tools in their job search. It’s always a good idea to combine these strategies with traditional job search methods, such as networking, attending industry events, and reaching out to recruiters directly.

It’s also important to be aware of the potential limitations of AI tools. For example, ChatGPT may not always provide accurate or unbiased information, and AI resume builders may not be able to capture the nuances of your individual experience. It’s important to use these tools critically and to supplement them with your own judgment and research.

Ⓒ The Big Game Hunter, Inc., Asheville, NC 2024 

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ABOUT JEFF ALTMAN, THE BIG GAME HUNTER

Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter is a coach who worked as a recruiter for what seems like one hundred years. He is hired to provide No BS Career Advice globally. That can involve job search, hiring staff, management, leadership, career transition and advice about resolving workplace issues. Schedule a discovery call at my website, www.TheBigGameHunter.us

He is the host of “No BS Job Search Advice Radio,” the #1 podcast in iTunes for job search with over 3000 episodes.

Website: www.TheBigGameHunter.us (schedule a paid coaching session, a free discovery call or ask questions using my Trusted Adviser Services)

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