AI-Generated Job Applications

Overview

If you search online for ‘how to write a job application’, you’ll find countless resources promising to transform you into the ideal candidate with the perfect resume and cover letter. But in the age of AI, there’s a new twist to this tale. Enter: AI-generated job applications.

Make no mistake, HR professionals are getting pretty good at spotting these.

So, if you’ve landed on this post hoping to understand how HR perceives AI-generated content and how to make your application stand out, then; a) welcome, and b) get ready to learn how to add that human touch to your AI-assisted applications.

The Red Flags of AI-Generated Content

1. Too Perfect – The Uncanny Valley of Applications

AI-generated applications often suffer from the “too perfect” syndrome. Flawless grammar, impeccable formatting, and an overly formal tone can make an application feel robotic.

Example: ‘Tell me about your experience with our software.’ AI’s version: “I possess extensive experience utilising your software, having executed numerous tasks with precision and efficiency.”

Real-life tweak: “I have used your software for several projects in which it streamlined my workflow. I am particularly impressed with its user-friendly interface.”

2. Too Much Punctuation – Grammatically Correct but Difficult to Read

AI-generated content often falls into the trap of overusing punctuation, making sentences grammatically perfect but challenging to read. Excessive commas, semicolons, and overly complex sentence structures can make the content feel stilted and unnatural.

Example: ‘Describe a challenging project you’ve worked on.’ AI’s version: “During my tenure at XYZ Company, I spearheaded a project; it involved coordinating with multiple departments, including marketing, sales, and product development, to streamline our processes, which ultimately resulted in a 20% increase in efficiency.”

Real-life tweak: “At XYZ Company, I led a project to improve inter-departmental coordination. By working closely with marketing, sales, and product development, we streamlined our processes and boosted efficiency by 20%.”

3. Generic Content – The Template Trap

AI-generated content can be too generic. Phrases like “results-driven professional” and “proven track record” are red flags for HR. You want to make sure that the narrative of your application speaks to an interest and connection with the company you are applying for.

Example: ‘Why do you want to work here?’ AI’s version: “I am a results-driven professional with a proven track record of delivering exceptional results, seeking to leverage my skills in a dynamic environment.”

Real-life tweak: “I am excited about the opportunity to work with company XYZ because I have followed your company’s innovative projects for years. I am deeply interested in your recent eco-friendly initiatives, and I would love to contribute to those efforts.”

4. Lack of Personal Touch – The Missing Heartbeat

AI lacks the personal anecdotes and genuine enthusiasm that make an application memorable.

Example: ‘What motivates you?’ AI’s version: “I am motivated by achieving targets and contributing to company success.”

Real-life tweak: “I am motivated by the chance to work on projects that make a difference. In my last role, I spearheaded a campaign to reduce our carbon footprint. I found this initiative highly rewarding and look forward to these kinds of opportunities in the future.”

How HR Perceives AI-Generated Content

Imagine you’re an HR professional sifting through a stack of resumes for an open position. You’re looking for that spark of individuality, the unique voice that makes a candidate stand out from the crowd. As you begin reading, you notice something off. The resumes are impeccably formatted, the grammar flawless, but they all seem eerily similar. There’s a certain stiffness to the language, a uniformity that feels… robotic. This is the telltale sign of AI-generated content.

HR professionals often perceive AI-generated content as a shortcut, signalling a lack of effort or genuine interest in the position. When an application reads too perfectly or comes across as overly generic, it raises red flags. It suggests that the applicant might have relied on an AI tool to do the heavy lifting, rather than putting in the personal effort to tailor their resume and cover letter for the specific role.

This perception can lead to a negative opinion of the applicant. HR professionals value authenticity and personal effort because they reflect a candidate’s genuine interest in the role and the organisation. Authentic applications demonstrate an individual’s work ethos, motivations, and specific experiences.

The use of AI-generated content can make an application seem insincere. HR professionals might think, “If the candidate didn’t take the time to write their own resume, how committed are they really to this job?” This can overshadow even the most impressive qualifications, as hiring managers question the true intentions and work ethic of the applicant.

To counteract this, applicants need to infuse their applications with authenticity. Explain why you are passionate about the role and express genuine enthusiasm for the company’s mission and values. By doing so, you make your application stand out and build a stronger connection with the hiring team. This will increase your chances of moving forward in the hiring process.

In a world where AI tools are becoming increasingly common, it’s the human touch that truly makes a difference. While AI can be a valuable assistant in the application process, remember to let your own voice shine through. This will show HR professionals that you’re genuinely interested in the role, and the right candidate for the job.

Differentiating and Editing AI Content to Appear Human

1. Add Personal Stories and Examples

Fill your application with specific examples from your experience and make statements about the company. If you have a vision to bring to the role or company, demonstrate it in your application. This will humanise your content and separate you from the mass of generic applications.

Example, AI’s version: “I have strong leadership skills.”

Real-life tweak: “In my previous role, I led a team of five on a challenging project. We faced tight deadlines but leveraged effective collaboration and communication to successfully deliver on time.”

Example, AI’s version: “I bring to the role 20 years of proven leadership experience, during which I have demonstrated exceptional proficiency in managing cross-functional teams, optimising operational efficiencies, and achieving organisational objectives through strategic execution and meticulous attention to detail.”

Real-life tweak: “In my 20 years of leadership, I have successfully led teams through significant projects and challenges. I launched a new product line that increased revenue by 30% and successfully navigated through an economic downturn. This strategic diversification minimised staff layoffs and maintained team morale.”

2. Show Genuine Enthusiasm

Express why you’re excited about the role and the company. Specificity is key here.

Example, AI’s version: “I am interested in your company because of its reputation for innovation.”

Real-life tweak: “I have been following your company’s progress in renewable energy, and I am excited by the opportunity to work on projects that are pushing the boundaries of sustainability.”

3. Edit for Natural Flow

To make your application more engaging and relatable, it’s important to ensure your writing reads smoothly. Edit out awkward phrasing and overly complex sentences to create a natural flow that mirrors how people actually speak and write.

Example, AI’s version: “With extensive experience in project management over a significant duration, I have cultivated a comprehensive skill set that positions me optimally for success in this role.”

Real-life tweak “With five years of project management experience, I have developed the ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver projects on time. I am confident I can make a valuable contribution to your team at company XYZ”

Conclusion

In the world of recruitment, where AI-generated applications are becoming more common, you must differentiate your content by adding a personal touch. This will ensure that your application stands out and resonates with HR professionals.

Remember that while AI can be a helpful tool, it’s your unique skills, knowledge, and experiences that will make your application shine.

Happy hunting!