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Resume Trends in a Digital World: How to Safely and Effectively Use AI

Employers have taken advantage of artificial intelligence (AI) tools for decades with applicant tracking systems (ATS) that filter resumes, rank candidates, track applicants, schedule interviews, and much more. Now employees are awakening to the benefits of AI in the job seeking process.

“With ChatGPT nearing its second anniversary, most jobseekers have at some point or another used AI (artificial intelligence) to create their resume, cover letter, or answers to application questions,”wrote Rachel Wells for Forbes in October 2024.

While it might have once been considered taboo or “cheating” for a job candidate to use AI, two in three HR managers now approve of using AI for creating  documents such as resumes and cover letters, according to Forbes.

“[Using AI] was a practice that was frowned upon more than approved by hiring managers and recruiters, many of whom rejected a candidate's application if they suspected it was written by AI,” wrote Wells. “However today, in 2024, the sentiment appears to have slightly shifted. The findings of a recent Zety survey of 500 HR managers reveals that most believe it is ethical for candidates to use AI in their job search.”

Let’s look at the rise of AI in resume writing, how job seekers are using AI, how employers can detect AI-generated resumes, the benefits and risks associated with using AI for resumes, and best practices for job seekers to utilize the technology.

The Rise of AI in Resume Writing

The job application process has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with AI-driven resume builders and editing tools becoming increasingly prevalent.

“These innovative tools enable candidates to craft compelling resumes that stand out to prospective employers while also streamlining the candidate evaluation process for recruiters,” says AI resume builder RapidResume.

The technology is shifting fast with ChatGPT just one of the players in the generative AI game that now includes such names as Claude, Perplexity, Copilot, Gemini, Brave Leo, Komo, and Andi.

“Artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models (LLMs) have come a long way in recent years,”says Resume.org. “The rise in popularity of AI resume writing is partly due to the current challenging job market. Applicants often submit dozens or even hundreds of resumes before getting a job offer, and it’s too time-consuming to create and customize a resume for each application by hand.”

How Job Seekers Are Using AI

Job seekers are embracing AI tools in various ways to enhance their resumes and improve their chances of landing interviews.

“Your resume is often your first impression with potential employers. AI can help ensure you have a strong resume since employers scan resumes for keywords that align with the posted job description and requirements,” says Sol Rashidi in Forbes. “AI can help you write engaging cover letters tailored to each job application.”

Here are some common applications:

  • Keyword Optimization: AI tools analyze job descriptions and suggest relevant keywords to include in resumes, increasing the chances of passing through ATS.
  • Content Generation: AI can help generate tailored content for different sections of the resume, including work experience, skills, and achievements. AI can also help you write and edit your cover letter.
  • Formatting and Design: AI-powered tools offer professional templates and formatting options, ensuring resumes are visually appealing and ATS-friendly.
  • Grammar and Spelling Checks: AI assists in proofreading and correcting grammatical errors, ensuring a polished final product.
  • Personalization: Advanced AI tools can help tailor resumes to specific job requirements, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.

How Employers Can Detect AI-Generated Resumes

As AI-generated resumes become more prevalent, employers and hiring managers are developing strategies to identify them. Here are some methods they use:

  • Keyword Stuffing: AI-generated resumes often overuse industry-specific terms and keywords in unnatural ways.
  • Generic Language: Look for vague or generalized statements that could apply to anyone in the field.
  • Lack of Personalization: AI-generated resumes may lack specific details about the applicant's unique experiences or achievements.
  • Inconsistent Formatting: Some AI tools produce resumes with erratic font styles, spacing issues, or unusual alignment.
  • Logical Inconsistencies: AI might create resumes with skills or experiences that don't align well with job titles or timelines.
  • AI Detection Tools: Some employers use specialized AI content detection tools to analyze the text and identify AI-generated content.

It's worth noting that a survey in 2024 by Canva and Sago, found that 67 percent of hiring managers think they can tell when they are reading an AI-modified resume, and that 90 percent say its okay to use generative AI in application materials and 44 percent say its alright to create any content related to the interview process.

Benefits of Using AI for Resumes

Incorporating AI into the resume writing process offers several advantages for job seekers, especially making an arduous process a bit easier.

“We know that job seeking can be really hard, it can be really daunting, so if there’s something that can make you feel better about that experience, then I think that folks should lean into that,” Amy Schultz, global head of talent acquisition at Canva told FOX Business. “For savvy job seekers, finding every possible way to succeed in this current market means using the latest tools. And now, when it comes to using AI on your résumé, hiring managers are expecting it.”

Here are some benefits job seekers can reap by utilizing AI technology:

  • Timesaving: AI tools can quickly generate resume drafts, saving job seekers significant time in the application process.
  • Keyword Optimization: AI can help identify and incorporate relevant keywords, improving the resume's chances of passing through ATS filters.
  • Improved Formatting: AI-powered tools ensure professional and consistent formatting across the resume.
  • Error Reduction: AI can help eliminate grammatical errors and typos, presenting a more polished final product.
  • Tailored Content: AI can assist in customizing resumes for specific job descriptions, potentially increasing the chances of securing an interview.
  • Objective Feedback: AI can provide an impartial perspective on how well a resume matches job requirements.

Risks Associated with AI-Generated Resumes

While AI offers numerous benefits, there are also potential risks to consider.

AI-generated resumes are not a panacea and over relying on them can lead to sloppy and ineffective resumes. It’s best to use them as a jumping off point, a guide, and a polishing tool.

“Put ethics first, and remember that AI is a tool, not a crutch,” advises Wells. “Never use it to entirely replace your input and effort, especially where assessment of your skills is concerned. Even while using AI to craft your resume and cover letter, always ensure that the final product reflects your voice and style.”

Here are some specific risks associated with AI-generated resumes:

  • Lack of Authenticity: Over-reliance on AI may result in generic or impersonal content that fails to showcase the applicant's unique qualities.
  • Misrepresentation: “AI hallucination” is a real thing. AI may inadvertently include inaccurate or outdated information if not properly guided by the user.
  • Detection by Employers: Some hiring managers view the use of AI in resume writing negatively, potentially leading to application rejection.
  • Overemphasis on Keywords: AI-generated resumes may focus too heavily on keywords at the expense of meaningful content.
  • Ethical Concerns: There are ongoing debates about the ethics of using AI to create resumes, with some viewing it as a form of misrepresentation.
  • Loss of Human Touch: AI-generated content may lack the nuance and personal touch that human-written resumes can provide.

Best Practices for Safely Using AI in Resume Writing

Weighing the benefits – and risks – of using AI in resume writing, there is a path forward for job seekers to harness the technology safely.

“For better or for worse, AI is now part of the job application process,” Ethan David Lee, Career Expert at CV Genius, told Forbes. “Job seekers must learn how to use AI as an asset and not as a shortcut. Hiring managers don’t mind AI in applications, but when it’s used carelessly, the result feels impersonal and fails to stand out. In an AI world, it’s more important than ever that applicants show their human side. It doesn’t mean that job seekers shouldn’t use AI, but they need to use it mindfully if they want it to help their chances.”

To leverage AI effectively while mitigating risks, consider the following best practices:

  • Use AI as a Starting Point: Utilize AI-generated content as a foundation but personalize and edit it to reflect your unique experiences and voice.
  • Verify Information: Always double-check any information or achievements suggested by AI to ensure accuracy.
  • Maintain Authenticity: While using AI for optimization, ensure your resume still reflects your genuine skills and experiences.
  • Blend AI with Human Input: Combine AI suggestions with your own writing to create a balanced, authentic resume.
  • Focus on Achievements: Use AI to help structure your accomplishments, but provide specific, measurable results from your own experience.
  • Tailor to the Job: Use AI to help customize your resume for each application, but ensure the final product aligns closely with the specific job requirements.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up to date with employer attitudes towards AI-generated resumes in your industry.
  • Use Reputable AI Tools: Choose well-established AI resume builders or editing tools with positive reviews and track records.

While AI offers powerful tools for optimizing and streamlining the resume creation process, it's crucial to use these technologies thoughtfully and ethically.

By leveraging AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human input, job seekers can create compelling, personalized resumes that realistically and effectively showcase their skills and experiences to potential employers.

PRT Staffing understands that the job seeking process can be a long journey. Contact us today to learn about flexible short-term and long-term employment options across a variety of skill sets in construction and skilled trades, manufacturing and light industrial, disaster recovery and cleanup services, and hospitality and event staffing.