You may be thinking about using Generative AI (GenAI) tools, such as Microsoft Copilot or ChatGPT, to help you with your job applications, CVs and covering letters. If you’re going to do this, you need to:
- proof read any text generated or refined using AI.
- make sure the final version uses language that you yourself use.
- be aware of the personal data you share and check the privacy settings.
- understand that GenAI cannot create new information.
We do not recommend you use GenAI to write your full CV, cover letter or application as they are all highly personal. When using GenAI to support your applications remember that it will never be able to represent your unique tone of voice, attitude to work or motivation for the position as well as you can.
It is also worth noting that GenAI can fabricate information and make suggestions that are untrue. If you are found to have lied on your CV, it could cost you the job or damage your professional reputation long term.
Frequently asked questions
- How can I use GenAI to enhance my CV, cover letter or application?
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When making applications, GenAI can help you analyse the job description to understand the role, identify the key words to incorporate in your application (with evidence) or decide which examples to include to demonstrate your competence and interest. GenAI can also help with proofreading, particularly reviewing spelling, grammar and sentence structure.
Remember: GenAI is there to be used as a tool to assist you, not to do the work for you.
- Which GenAI platforms should I use?
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At the University of Aberdeen we recommend using Copilot as it is part of Microsoft 365, which you can access for free as a University of Aberdeen student.
We recommend CareerSet for AI-powered feedback on your CV, cover letter and LinkedIn profile. You can access CareerSet for free as a University of Aberdeen student. More details on how to use CareerSet can be found in the mini course or you can access it directly through MyCareerHub.
- If I don’t use GenAI to help with my applications, will I be at a disadvantage?
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No. It is your choice whether you want to use AI tools to help you when making applications. Students have told us that they have found AI useful for help with spelling, grammar and syntax, structuring applications and refining ambiguity. The best way to make an application stand out is to tailor it and ensure the information is clear, concise and relevant to the role.
We have lots of resources on our website about making applications, including CV and cover letter templates. You are also welcome to book an appointment to receive feedback on an application form, CV or cover letter.
- Do I need to be worried about AI-powered Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)?
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AI-powered ATS is software that some employers use at the initial stage of the recruitment process to review applications against the job advert. The software looks for key words that are important in the job, such as technical skills or experience in certain areas (e.g. social media).
ATS can't process complex formatting like columns, tables, symbols or text boxes, so it's very important you keep a plain layout for your CV so the content can be reviewed. Look at our sample CVs for an example of how we recommend you structure your CV.
If you have tailored your CV to the job and have used a plain structure and layout then you have nothing to worry about. If you have not tailored your CV and/or your format is incompatible your application may not be processed.
- Can I use GenAI to help me prepare for interviews?
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Yes, if you want to. GenAI can be a useful tool when preparing for interviews. You could ask it to generate possible questions for the role based on the job description. You might also use GenAI to help you structure your interview answers but remember you want to be authentic in an interview and not read from a pre-prepared script.
We have many resources to help you prepare for interviews on our website. You are also welcome to book a practice interview once you have the date of an interview confirmed.