“How to use AI in your job applications (the right way)?”

AI tools can be a great asset when optimizing your job applications, but they should be used strategically. While AI can help streamline your process, it’s essential to maintain authenticity and a human touch. Here’s how to use AI effectively—and what to avoid.

How AI can help (with examples)

1. Understanding job requirements more clearly

AI tools can analyze job descriptions and extract key skills and responsibilities. For example, if a job posting mentions "supplier negotiation" and "cost analysis," AI can highlight these so you ensure they’re reflected in your application—if they align with your experience.

2. Generating CV and Cover Letter drafts (but not final versions)

AI can create a structured draft based on your experience. For instance, if you input "5 years of procurement experience in luxury goods," it might suggest:

🚫 AI-generated: "Highly skilled procurement professional with extensive experience in luxury goods."

✅ Human touch: "With five years of experience managing procurement in the luxury sector, I specialize in supplier negotiations and cost optimization."

The AI provides a starting point, but personalizing the content makes it real and engaging.

Additionally, AI has not lived through your work experiences. It doesn’t understand the impact of your achievements in relation to job expectations. For example, it won’t recognize if you successfully deployed an ERP system, developed a new portfolio, or launched a product that increased market share. These accomplishments make you stand out, so it’s up to you to include them yourself.

3. Improving clarity and readability

AI-powered tools can refine your writing and improve fluidity. They help make sentences concise and ensure your tone is professional but approachable.

4. Identifying industry terminology

AI can help incorporate relevant terms. If you're applying for a role in supply chain management, it might suggest phrases like "demand planning" or "inventory optimization" to align with industry expectations.

What to avoid (common AI pitfalls)

❌ Copy-pasting without personalization

Employers can tell when a cover letter is generic. Always inject your own voice and experience. If AI generates a phrase like, "I am passionate about logistics," personalize it: "After optimizing supply chains for five years, I thrive on finding efficient logistics solutions."

❌ Overuse of complex or robotic language

Some AI-generated content sounds unnatural. Instead of "Leveraged cross-functional synergy to facilitate process optimizations," simplify: "Worked with cross-functional teams to improve processes and reduce costs by X%."

❌ Providing incorrect or exaggerated information

AI doesn’t fact-check. It is quite common for AI to write incorrect information. For example, if it suggests you have "10 years of leadership experience" when you only have five, make sure to correct it.

Fun fact: AI has even been asked which is bigger—a chicken egg or a cow egg? The AI answered "cow egg" simply because a cow is bigger than a chicken. This illustrates how AI can sometimes provide quirky or incorrect responses.

❌ Including personal Information in AI Prompts

Avoid inputting personal details like your full name, phone number, or address into AI tools. Many AI platforms store or analyze data, which could pose privacy risks. Keep your input professional and generic.

❌ Relying on AI instead of strategy

AI can’t replace a well-thought-out job search strategy. It won’t help you define a career positioning strategy aligned with your aspirations and market reality, identify the best companies for your skills, or craft a long-term career plan. That’s where human expertise—like working with a recruitment coach—makes the difference.

AI is a valuable tool when used correctly, but it should complement—not replace—your expertise and personal touch. Use AI to enhance your applications while ensuring your unique skills and personality shine through. 

Want to optimize your job search effectively? As a recruitment expert, I can help you craft applications that truly stand out. 

To take the next step, check out my Basic Pack (CV + Cover Letter), and for personalized support and a tailored job search strategy, contact me!

contact@candidateimpact.com
+41 22 506 85 62