In the fast-paced and ever evolving world of tech, the pressure to stand out when job seeking is immense. As a specialist tech recruitment agency, the team here at Absolute IT understand the appeal of using AI tools to craft the perfect CV and cover letter. While these tools offer definite advantages, they also come with their own set of challenges. In our line of work, we look at CVs and cover letters day in and day out, and it’s often easy to spot the ones which have been entirely generated by AI (and not in a good way…).

So below we’ve outlined how to take a balanced approach when using AI in your job search, with practical tips on leveraging these tools while also avoiding common mistakes.

The pros and cons of using AI for your CV & cover letter

Pros:

• Efficiency: AI can significantly speed up the process of writing and refining your CV and cover letter. With templates and smart suggestions, you can generate professional-looking documents in minutes.
• Consistency: AI ensures that your CV and cover letter maintain a consistent format and style, which can be particularly beneficial if you’re applying to multiple positions.
• Optimisation: AI tools can help optimise your CV for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), increasing the chances that your application will be seen by human recruiters. For example, you can use ChatGPT to help you come up with the most common keywords for your stand-out skillsets.
• Customisation: Advanced AI tools can tailor your documents to specific job descriptions, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
• Error Reduction: Spelling and grammatical errors can be minimised with AI, ensuring a polished final product. Try tools like Grammarly which will help not only with spelling and grammar, but tone and style too.

Cons:

• Lack of Personalisation: AI-generated content can sometimes come off as generic or impersonal, lacking the unique touch that reflects your individuality.
• Over-Reliance: Excessive dependence on AI can hinder your ability to effectively communicate your own achievements and experiences. This could be a particular challenge if you are at an in-person interview but cannot articulate your experience.
• AI Detection: Some companies use software to check for AI-generated content, which could backfire if your application appears inauthentic.
• Ethical Concerns: Relying too heavily on AI may raise ethical questions about the authenticity of your application.
• Skill Gaps: AI cannot replace the nuanced understanding of your own career path and aspirations that only you possess. If your CV is too tailored to the job it may seem that you are more qualified on paper than in real life.

Striking the Right Balance

Using AI tools for your CV and cover letter can be a game-changer in the competitive IT job market. However, the key lies in striking the right balance between AI assistance and being your best human self. Here are 5 practical tips for using AI responsibly during your job search:

Use AI as a starting point, not the end point

• Explanation: Begin by generating a draft with AI, but ensure you customise and refine you CV/cover letter it to reflect your own voice and experiences.
• Tip: After AI provides a draft, spend time adding personal anecdotes, specific achievements, and details that highlight your unique journey.

Maintain a human touch

• Explanation: AI can help with structure and formatting, but the content should still sound like it’s coming from you. Infuse your personality into the CV and cover letter.
• Tip: Use AI suggestions as guidelines but rephrase sections to sound natural and personal. Avoid jargon that doesn’t resonate with your genuine style.

Tailor each application

• Explanation: While AI can tailor your documents to specific job descriptions, a manual touch is necessary to ensure relevance and authenticity.
• Tip: Manually adjust your CV and cover letter for each application to address the specific needs and culture of the company.

Proofread and edit – thoroughly

• Explanation: AI tools can reduce errors but aren’t infallible. Always review your documents for accuracy and coherence.
• Tip: Read your CV and cover letter out loud to catch any awkward phrasing or errors. Consider getting feedback from a friend or family member.

Showcase soft skills and cultural fit

• Explanation: AI excels at highlighting hard skills and achievements but often falls short in conveying soft skills and cultural fit, which are essential for many organisations.
• Tip: Include examples of teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability. Share experiences that demonstrate your alignment with the company’s values and culture.

AI can be a powerful ally in crafting compelling CVs and cover letters for tech roles, offering efficiency and optimisation that can give you an edge in the job market. However, the human touch and adding your personality remains irreplaceable. By using AI as a tool rather than a crutch, you can create applications that are not only polished and professional, but also authentically you.

Remember, the goal is to present the best version of yourself, and that requires a blend of AI assistance and personal insight. At Absolute IT, we support the responsible use of AI and encourage candidates to use it wisely to enhance (not replace!) their unique voice.

If you’re job hunting and want more advice on navigating the current market or refining your CV, reach out to our team today!