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