How to Use Generative AI in Your Job Search

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Remember spell-check bans on job applications? Neither do we. Job seekers have always used technology to help them shine. Generative AI is simply a new addition to your toolkit.

For those who may not be familiar with generative AI, it's a type of artificial intelligence that can create content based on the vast amounts of information it's been trained on. Think of it as an assistant that can help you write, edit and brainstorm.

Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini can help you with several job search tasks, from researching companies and tailoring resumes to preparing for interviews. According to a Robert Half survey, almost one-third of job seekers use generative AI to help them write their resumes, online professional profiles and cover letters. But even with AI’s help, the human touch remains essential when searching for a job.

How Generative AI Can Help You Stand Out in Your Job Hunt 1. Tailor your resume with precision 2. Craft compelling cover letters 3. Guide your interview prep 4. Polish your LinkedIn profile 5. Expand your job search horizons 6. Craft effective follow-up messages

While generative AI is powerful, it’s not fool-proof, so be prepared to check the information it gives you and verify everything. And before you start using it for your resume or cover letter, read the fine print: Some employers explicitly state their policies on AI use in applications. Always check job postings and company websites for any restrictions. If there are no rules against AI use, consider these six ways to leverage it to enhance your job search:

Gone are the days of sending the same resume to every prospective employer. Generative AI can help you customize your resume for each opening, increasing your chances of catching a recruiter's eye.

Start by pasting the job description into your chosen AI tool. Ask it to identify key skills and qualifications the employer is seeking. Then, use this information to refine your resume.

For example, when applying for a technical writer role, you might ask, "How can I enhance this resume bullet point specifically for an API documentation-focused position at a software company?" An AI-powered tool might suggest that you emphasize experience with documentation as code (DaC) and quantifiable examples of how you’ve made it easier for developers who use the product or platform you’ve written documentation for. Just be sure that what you include is accurate.

Writing cover letters can be a time suck, especially when you're applying to multiple positions. Generative AI can help you create engaging, personalized messages. Here's how to use it effectively:

1. Provide the AI tool with the job description and key points about your experience.

2. Ask it to generate an outline for your cover letter.

3. Use this outline as a foundation to build on with your own words and specific examples.

For instance, you might prompt the AI to "Create an outline for a cover letter for a senior financial analyst position, highlighting my ERP systems experience." You can also provide the AI with your resume and let it take cues from that.

The tool will give you a structure to work from, but infusing it with your unique voice and experiences is up to you. This approach helps ensure your cover letter is well-structured and authentically you.

Turn interview jitters into confidence with AI-powered preparation. Start by asking the AI to create a list of potential questions you’ll be asked based on the job description, e.g., "Generate 10 interview questions for an administrative assistant position, focusing on organizational skills and attention to detail."

Once you have your questions, practice answering them. Then, use the AI to refine your responses:

"Here's my answer to 'How do you prioritize tasks with multiple deadlines?' Can you suggest ways to make it more concise and impactful?"

The AI can pinpoint areas for improvement and offer more powerful phrasing for your achievements. Remember, aim for natural confidence, not rehearsed perfection. Use AI suggestions as a guide, but let your personality shine through in your answers.

Make your LinkedIn profile a powerful career tool with AI assistance. Begin with your headline by prompting the AI to suggest options that sum up your professional accomplishments and career aspirations. For instance, "Suggest five LinkedIn headlines for an experienced web designer with a passion for digital advertising." Next, tackle your summary. Provide the AI with crucial points about your experience, skills and career goals, then ask it to suggest a compelling story that ties these elements together.

Don't overlook the skills section. AI can help you identify relevant skills you might have missed. Try a prompt like, "Based on this job description for a web designer, what skills should I list on my LinkedIn profile?" This helps you highlight the most relevant and in-demand skills for your target roles.

Feeling stuck in your job search? Ask AI to brainstorm job titles you might not have considered. For example, "Given my background in customer service and interest in technology, what are some job titles I should consider beyond 'IT Support Specialist'?"

You can also use AI to research companies and industries. Ask questions like, "What are the top emerging trends in fintech that a financial analyst should know about?" This information can help you tailor your applications and prepare for interviews.

Worried about skills gaps? AI can help there, too. Try asking something like, "What are the must-have tech skills for network architects right now?" This information can guide your upskilling efforts and make you a more competitive candidate. For even more job search support, download the Robert Half mobile app to access personalized job recommendations, apply to jobs instantly and get matched with roles that align with your skills and career goals.

Following up after applying or interviewing is vital, but finding the right words can be tricky. Start by providing context to the AI, such as, "I interviewed for a marketing manager position two days ago. Help me write a thank-you email that reiterates my interest and touches on key points from the interview."

If you’re chasing up an application, try "Draft a polite follow-up email for a project management position I applied to two weeks ago. I want to reaffirm my interest without seeming pushy." The AI can provide a template you can then personalize with specific details about the role and company.

The world of work is always on the move, and now you have gen AI in your corner. Use it wisely in your job search and you'll be primed to act fast when new opportunities arise.

Ready to put your AI-enhanced job search skills to the test? Check out our open jobs. With your sharpened resume, polished LinkedIn profile and interview-ready responses, you're now better equipped to land that dream role.

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