Almost half of workers said they would use the AI tool ChatGPT to create a CV and cover letter, according to recent research by tech company Kaspersky. Job seekers thought the use of AI would improve or refine their CVs and help them stand out from the competition. Is it a problem that job seekers are using AI to create CVs?

AI as a work tool is growing in popularity

Giants like Microsoft are integrating AI into their applications. Outlook and Teams both have AI features, so it would make sense for job seekers to use AI to create a CV or cover letter.

Using AI tools such as ChatGPT to create a CV or cover letter is useful to generate ideas such as skills or experiences employees may have overlooked. If grammar or writing copy isn’t a strong point, then using an AI tool will help workers avoid any embarrassing mistakes.

AI is helpful when creating paragraphs of text, such as creating a professional summary to start a CV with. Professional summaries are not necessary if you have a short CV, but they are useful if you have a long career or are changing industries or careers. AI is well known for saving time for those who use it.

However, problems arise when the output from AI tools isn’t checked. 40% of workers said they don’t check their work after using AI before sending it out.

Precautions for employees

Job seekers need to use AI tools with caution and not stretch the truth when creating their CVs. They could land their dream job, but it could quickly unravel if their new employer finds they lied or don’t have the skills they said they did. AI is intelligent but it’s also well known for making mistakes.

Creating a CV requires a personal touch and human judgment that an AI may not possess. It is crucial to review and tailor the information provided by the AI tool to ensure accuracy and relevance.

Relying solely on AI-generated content for a CV can also lead to generic and impersonal applications. Employers value authenticity and genuine human input when reviewing job applications.

Precautions for employers

Employers also need to do due diligence when looking at CVs and cover letters. Checks need to be made and the right questions asked during interviews. Recruitment agencies will often meet with candidates and assess their suitability for a role, saving you time.

Conclusion

Relying heavily on AI writing tools may lead to a loss of critical thinking skills. It is essential for job seekers to actively engage in the process of crafting their CVs and cover letters, as this allows them to reflect on their experiences, tailor their applications to specific roles, and showcase their abilities effectively.

Furthermore, there is a risk of over-reliance on AI-generated content leading to plagiarism or generic applications. Using pre-written templates or phrases without proper customisation can result in applications that lack originality and fail to stand out from the competition.

While AI can be a useful tool in creating initial drafts or generating ideas for a CV or cover letter, it should be used as a starting point rather than a final product. Employers should use caution when reviewing CVs and use checks to verify the information provided. Job seekers are using AI to create CVs and there are benefits but caution needs to be used by all.

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