Artificial intelligence has made some remarkable advancements across different sectors. Apart from simulating human-like conversations and providing answers to questions, AI tools are now capable of writing essays, anecdotes, poems, and even technical content.
With the emergence of AI writing platforms like ChatGPT, there is a growing curiosity about whether AI is the future of writing, specifically in the realm of resume writing. Or, perhaps human writers remain the optimal choice when all factors are considered?
This is especially important for some of the high-value roles in big tech (for example: if somebody is trying to get an interview for the Uber Product Manager role) or a role where company culture fit is important (for example Google has a round for Googley-ness).
In this article, we aim to delve into the capabilities of generative AI and examine the advantages and disadvantages of employing AI-generated resumes in job applications.
Pros of Using AI-Generated Resumes in Job Applications
The use of AI-generated resumes in job applications is gaining popularity. With the increasing influence of artificial intelligence, these resumes offer several advantages that can significantly impact a candidate’s job search and increase their chances of success. Here are some advantages of using AI-generated resumes in job applications.
It is Money and Time Saving
Using AI-generated resumes in job applications can save a significant amount of time and money for candidates. Traditional resume writing can be a time-consuming process which needs careful consideration of formatting, content, and keywords. AI-generated resumes, on the other hand, utilise advanced algorithms to automatically generate well-structured resumes as per the job description of specific job requirements.
By using AI-generated resumes in job applications, candidates can save valuable time which further can be utilised for other aspects of their job search, such as networking, skill development, and interview preparation. Moreover, using AI-generated resumes in job applications might reduce the need for expensive professional resume writing services, offering a cost-effective alternative for job seekers.
It Can Provide Useful Formatting and Grammar Assistance
Spelling mistakes or grammatical blunders can downgrade the credibility of an otherwise excellent application. However, if you use AI-generated resumes in job applications, you can lower the chances of these silly mistakes. By using AI to proofread your CV, you ensure flawless sentence structuring and content coherence, which can help effortlessly fine-tune your resume.
Generative AI tools offer invaluable assistance in formatting and structuring—you can list your education in reverse chronological order or showcase your achievements in well-crafted bullets). This can help present your technical expertise with precision and professionalism.
You Can Optimise Your Resume with High-Converting Keywords to Attract Maximum Eyeballs
AI can easily identify and use industry-specific keywords in your resume which are relevant to technical roles, ensuring your resume stands out in Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). For instance, if you’re applying for a job in software development, you can ask AI to generate high-performing keywords relevant to the industry and include them in your prompt. Such an optimization increases the likelihood of your resume reaching the top of the pile.
Drawbacks of Using AI Generated Resumes in Job Applications
The use of AI-generated resumes in job applications has increased nowadays as it might be a convenient solution. But, it is necessary to critically evaluate its drawbacks and also to make a good decision about its suitability for job applications. By understanding the potential limitations, job seekers can weigh the pros and cons and make the best choice regarding the use of AI-generated resumes in job applications.
Impersonal and Generic: AI Lacks the Human Touch
AI-generated resumes often lack the personal touch and unique insights that humans can provide. They may come across as generic and fail to capture your individuality and strengths. For example, when copying and pasting sections from a job description, the AI may regurgitate keywords without demonstrating how you specifically excel in those areas. Hence, it can be a huge drawback to using AI-generated resumes in job applications and become the reason for the loss of a huge opportunity for you.
Potential Inaccuracies and Irrelevance: Careful Review and Editing Required
Although ChatGPT and other AI tools understand the language and format of professional resumes, it gathers information from various sources during its training. As a result, there is a possibility that the AI-generated resume may include outdated or wrong information. For instance, it could list a skill you no longer possess or present work experience that is no longer relevant. Hence, even after generating resumes using AI tools, you need to check it twice very carefully.
Deviation from Best Practices: Lack of Adherence to Industry-Specific Guidelines and Key Elements
There are high chance that AI may not conform to industry-specific resume guidelines or include essential elements recommended for certain professions or positions. For instance, it might overlook crucial sections like a portfolio for creative roles or relevant certifications for technical positions. While you may overcome initial screening processes by using AI-generated resumes in job applications, only a resume crafted by a human author can help with a strict screening process or a rigorous resume analysis that most companies now rely on.
Lack of Customization: Limited Tailoring for Specific Job Applications
Another limitation of using AI-generated resumes in job applications is they often lack custom content for each job application. This can make it challenging to highlight specific skills and experiences that align with the requirements of a particular job. For example, AI may not emphasise the relevant software expertise you possess when applying for a software engineering position. Hence, it can be a risky decision to use AI-generated resumes in job applications.
Risks of Plagiarism and Biased Language: Potential Issues with Originality and Fairness
AI generally uses the content already available to generate the resumes. Therefore, there are chances that AI tools may inadvertently produce plagiarised content if they draw from existing resumes or online sources. Moreover, there is a risk of biased language also if the AI models are not adequately trained to recognize and address biases. Hence, it is crucial to have someone to review and verify the content for accuracy and fairness before finalising the AI-generated resumes in job applications.
Should You Use AI Generated Resumes in Job Applications
If your sole aim is to get assistance in creating an effective resume and cover letter, AI may be a wonderfully reliable option for job seekers to maintain a consistent style and tone. Not to mention, you will also receive general guidelines on resume formatting, structuring, and customization for specific job applications. You can also leverage AI for proofreading, editing, checking grammar, sentence accuracy, and so on.
At the very least, AI-generated resumes can inspire you to approach your documents from a fresh perspective, utilising the wealth of data contributed by other users who have found themselves in similar positions to yours. However, it’s important to note that Generative AI cannot independently write a resume without human input. Remember, resumes should be unique and tailored for each job application.
And thus, it’s best to dedicate time and effort to writing your resume largely by yourself to give it a human personality and have it fully reflect your unique background and expertise. Alternatively, you can hire professional resume writing services or a reviewer instead of relying solely on AI-generated resumes in job applications to ensure the success of your job search.
Conclusion
The use of generative AI for resume and CV creation, commonly referred to as AI-generated resumes, comes with both pros and cons. On the positive side, AI-generated resumes offer efficiency and time-saving benefits by automating the resume writing process and providing professionally formatted templates.
Artificial Intelligence can also help applicants highlight relevant skills and experiences based on the job requirements, increasing their chances of getting noticed by potential employers.
However, it is important to consider the limitations of AI-generated resumes.
While they can assist in structuring content, they may lack the human touch and personalization that can make a resume stand out.
There is also a risk of producing generic or repetitive resumes that fail to capture an individual’s unique qualities and achievements. Moreover, AI may not always accurately interpret the context or nuances of certain experiences or skills, leading to potential inaccuracies or misunderstandings in the resume.
Hence, It is crucial to review, customise, and tailor the content to ensure it accurately represents one’s skills, experiences, and career aspirations before using AI-generated resumes in job applications. Balancing the convenience of AI-generated assistance with the need for personalised and compelling resumes is key when using AI-generated resumes in job applications.
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