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In the rapidly evolving landscape of job seeking, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a game-changing technology. One notable development is the emergence of AI-powered resume-creation tools designed to assist job seekers in creating compelling resumes and CVs.

What is AI Resume Writing and How Does it Work?

AI resume writing refers to using artificial intelligence (AI) technology to create or assist in creating job resumes.

These AI-powered resume writer tools are designed to simplify and enhance the resume writing process by analysing job descriptions, suggesting relevant content, optimising keywords, and generating tailored resumes based on the user’s input and the requirements of the desired job position.

Job seekers can use AI-powered resume builders like Resume Genius to decide on the resume format and tailor content. Once you have nailed down the resume format you prefer, you can also use a language model chatbot like Bard and ChatGPT to sharpen specific content, like the sentence structures for the list of achievements.

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How AI resume writing works

Job matching and analysis

AI resume writing tools start by analysing the job description of the desired position. They identify key skills, qualifications, and requirements mentioned in the job posting.

Input and customisation

Users add their personal information, work experience, education, skills, and other relevant details into the AI resume builder. The tool may also prompt users to provide additional information to create a comprehensive resume.

Keyword optimisation

AI resume builders identify essential keywords and phrases from the job description relevant to the user’s background and qualifications. These keywords are strategically incorporated into the resume to enhance its visibility and relevance to applicant tracking systems (ATS) used by employers.

Content generation

Based on the user’s input and the analysis of the job description, the AI generates content for different sections of the resume, including work experience, skills, education and certifications.

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Tailored content

The AI tailors the generated content to match the specific job requirements. It highlights the user’s skills and experiences, ensuring that the resume aligns with the needs of the employer.

Format and styling

AI resume builders often offer various templates and formatting options. Users can choose a resume template that suits their preferences and industry norms.

Review and editing

Users can review the generated content and make any necessary edits to ensure accuracy and completeness. They can also modify the content to emphasise specific accomplishments or experiences.

Cover letter generation (if available)

Some AI resume builders offer cover letter generation. The AI may use similar techniques to generate a cover letter that complements the resume and addresses the specific job requirements.

Finalisation and download

Once the user is satisfied with the generated content, they can finalise the resume and download it in a format suitable for submitting it to employers or uploading it to job search platforms.

With tools like ChatGPT and Rezi offering AI-powered assistance, job seekers have an intriguing option to streamline the job application process. While there are clear advantages to using AI in this context, there are also potential drawbacks.

Related: 10 resume builders and template tools to make your resume stand out

Advantages of using AI for resume-writing

There are clear advantages to using AI to create resumes, but there are also potential drawbacks to consider. Ahead, delve into the pros and cons of using AI to write a resume. / Image by Freepik

There are clear advantages to using AI to create resumes, but there are also potential drawbacks to consider. / Image by Freepik

1. AI Draws from Experience

AI tools like ChatGPT draw from vast internet data to create a robust knowledge base. This enables them to generate content quickly and efficiently based on specific prompts.

For instance, users can input their desired job title, and the AI tool will produce a complete resume within minutes. This wealth of data-driven content surpasses what an individual could access in a short period of time.

2. Provide a starting point for inspiration

AI tools provide an excellent starting point when creating resumes, whether those looking for their first job, individuals new to the job market, returning after a hiatus, or transitioning to a new career.

They can generate templates covering various aspects of a resume or cover letter, such as relevant technical skills, experience, and introductions.

This can be a lifeline for individuals grappling with the resume writing process and how to structure their applications effectively. For instance, a software engineer seeking to write a cover letter can use ChatGPT to generate a full template they can personalise.

3. Save time with the ease of formatting

AI tools help users save time and effort, especially when dealing with formatting issues. The traditional way of formatting resumes can be time-consuming and error-prone, but AI can automate this process.

For instance, AI resume builders like Resume Genius allows users to input their resume data and generate a tailored resume using that content, streamlining the application process.

Crafting a visually appealing resume that adheres to professional standards can be challenging. AI-driven tools like VisualCV offer the advantage of ensuring your documents have consistent formatting, enhancing their visual appeal.

4. Suggest relevant keywords

AI resume builders often analyse job descriptions and industry trends to identify keywords relevant to the position you’re applying for. 

These tools can suggest keywords and phrases that align with the job requirements, helping to tailor the resume to the job description.

They can assist in optimising keyword density and placement within your resume. They can analyse the distribution of keywords in the entire resume to ensure they are appropriately dispersed throughout the document, making your resume more appealing to both ATS and human recruiters.

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Disadvantages of using AI for resume-writing

1. Recruiters’ detection of AI

While AI-generated content can be a time-saver, recruiters and hiring managers are becoming more adept at detecting the use of AI in resumes and cover letters. Submitting AI-generated materials without differentiation from the original content could lead to rejection.

This is particularly true when multiple applicants submit identical or highly similar materials, which could raise concerns about plagiarism. To mitigate this, job candidates should utilise plagiarism-checking tools like Copyscape to ensure their content is original.

2. Imperfections of AI

AI tools are not flawless. For instance, Bard and ChatGPT acknowledge that they may sometimes provide plausible-sounding but incorrect answers. Additionally, the model might become excessively verbose or overuse specific phrases.

In contexts where concise and clear communication is crucial, like a resume or cover letter, relying solely on AI-generated content may result in documents that fail to meet specific requirements.

3. Lack of human touch

AI lacks the nuance and personal touch a human can provide. A cover letter, for instance, is an opportunity to infuse personality and warmth, elements that are challenging for AI to replicate accurately. A personalised touch can make a significant difference in creating a connection with potential employers.

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Finding the balance between AI and the human touch

While AI-powered tools offer undeniable benefits, it’s essential to strike a balance between leveraging AI and adding your unique touch. Here’s how to use AI effectively:

  • Use AI-generated content as a source of inspiration and a starting point.
     
  • Review and edit AI-generated writing for spelling, grammar, repetition and inaccuracies.
     
  • Customise your resume and cover letter to reflect your personal experiences and aspirations.
     
  • Run AI-generated content through plagiarism checkers to ensure originality.
     
  • Keep in mind that AI is a tool, not a replacement for human creativity and authenticity.

In a world where technology continues to reshape industries, job seekers must strike a balance between embracing AI’s capabilities and infusing their resumes with their distinctive identities.

The future of resume and cover letter writing might be intertwined with AI, but the human touch will always be the defining factor in making a lasting impression on potential employers.

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