AI-generated Resumes - A Helpful Tool or a Red Flag for HR?

In today's world, it seems like everyone is buzzing about artificial intelligence or AI. But here's something you might not know: while AI can be a powerful tool, using it to craft your resume might not always work in your favor when it comes to landing that dream job you've been eyeing. 

In theory, AI-generated resumes should simplify and enhance the resume process by analyzing job descriptions, suggesting relevant content, optimizing keywords, and creating tailored resumes based on your input and the job position's requirements.  

And it’s true that based on your input and the job description analysis, AI can churn out prose for different sections of the resume, including work experience, skills, education, and certifications.  

Uh Oh! AI Wrecked My Chances of Getting Hired 

But here's the thing: despite its capabilities, hiring managers aren't always impressed by AI-generated resumes. More than half (53%) say they have reservations about resumes that include AI-generated content, with one in five calling it a “critical issue” that might prevent them from hiring someone.   

They can often tell when the resume mirrors the job description, when details have been omitted, or when the language sounds impersonal. If the resume is written in a different style than the application, or if multiple resumes are received that are very similar, it is likely that AI was involved.   

Related: "10  Resume Mistakes That Can Sabotage Your Job Search” 

But that’s not stopping people. Of more than 1,000 current and recent jobseekers polled in a survey, nearly half (46%) reported using ChatGPT to write resumes or cover letters.  

Despite your well-intended efforts, AI doesn't consistently deliver. For example, Bard and ChatGPT creators know that AI-generated text sometimes can, and often does, come up with plausible-sounding but incorrect answers.  

While AI can help with formatting and basic content, it falls short when it comes to understanding the nuances of your career journey. It can't delve deep into your experiences to highlight common themes and transferable skills or tailor your resume to specific roles. 

“You may only have one chance to wow a prospective employer. That’s why it’s so important that your resume is a truthful, authentic reflection of the unique skills and experience you bring to the table,” says Wilma Nachsin, founder of Life Working®, the five-star rated company that specializes in resume writing and career coaching.  

AI can’t coach you to land your dream job or effectively help you tie your resume into your overall personal brand image. It also lacks personality, so your resume could come off as uncomfortably artificial and, in some cases, overflowing with unnecessary verbiage. You can’t communicate your passion for a role, or your culture fit for an organization using AI alone.   

“There’s no question that AI lacks the nuance and personal touch a real person can provide. A cover letter, for instance, allows you to infuse your natural personality and warmth, elements that are challenging for AI to replicate accurately. These personal touches can make a significant difference in connecting with potential employers," Wilma explains. 

Resumes are most effective when designed to convey your career story. AI struggles to communicate in a genuinely creative, effective storytelling manner. So, instead of making your application memorable, you risk coming off as just one more jobseeker in a sea of candidates with nothing unique to bring to the table. 

Don’t Doom Your Job Search Before It Begins  

Recruiters and hiring managers are becoming savvier at spotting the increasing numbers of candidates using AI-generated resumes. While, in some cases, AI tools can improve your chances, they can also work against you. Since AI trains on data existing all over the web, it could include plagiarized copy, leading to rejection and damage to your perceived integrity. 

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

Instead, consider our personalized resume-writing services that provide a human touch and professional expertise. At Life Working®, we understand the importance of crafting a compelling resume that tells your story authentically. Our personalized resume and writing services and Career Assessment Center can help you navigate your job search with confidence. 

We also offer a free consultation so you can learn more about our services and fees. For additional information on writing resumes, read ”Resumes Are Challenging - Get it Right.”

Feel free to reach out with any questions. We're here to support you every step of the way on your journey to a fulfilling career! 

The Life Working® Writing Services and Career Coaching Team