AI in Job Applications: a double-edged sword
In this new era of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the hiring process, with both candidates and recruiters feeling its impact. AI tools for CVs and cover letters can increase efficiency and enhance the job application. However, they also raise important questions about authenticity and personal connection.
At ARU Temps, we see first-hand how AI is shaping the way candidates approach job applications. While many employers recognise the appeal and potential benefits of using AI to assist with CVs and cover letters, it’s important to remember that AI should be used as a tool, not a replacement for human judgement and creativity. Too often, we receive applications that are AI-generated and lack the personal touch, substituting your unique voice and originality.
Why authenticity matters
Your CV and cover letter are more than just a list of skills - they’re your first opportunity to showcase who you are. While AI tools can help polish your application, they can never capture the personality, passion, and individuality that only you bring. Employers value authenticity because it reflects effort, honesty, and professionalism.
For example, a candidate who shares a personal story about overcoming challenges in a previous role doesn’t just showcase their skills - they give insight into their character and work ethic. This deeper connection is often what resonates most with recruiters. Even if you’re applying for practical reasons, like needing income, taking the time to personalise your application shows that you’re serious about the opportunity and willing to invest the effort to stand out.
The risk of overusing AI
AI can be an excellent tool for improving the appearance and readability of your application, from perfecting layout to suggesting better phrasing. But it’s essential to strike a balance. Over-relying on AI can weaken your application, making it seem impersonal or generic. Recruiters are increasingly skilled at spotting applications that lack a personal touch, and this can hurt your chances of standing out.
Here are some key insights from ARU Temps recruitment advisors about the common pitfalls of overusing AI:
- Kahmarl Mason: "One pitfall I find when reading CVs with AI is that you can tell the CV hasn't been tailored to showcase the candidates’ relevant skills for the role. The lack of clear formatting, sometimes the format will be all out of sorts, when reading you might be jumping from experience to the candidates’ qualifications and to their relevant skills.”
- Nicola Hodge: "Nothing wrong with using AI to “assist” you. But adapt your CV and cover letter to your style of writing, with your voice and don’t forget to proofread.”
- Laura Kendrick: “Don’t ask AI to generate a cover letter simply by uploading the job spec or advert for a role – AI will write the perfect application not considering whether or not you actually have the required skills, knowledge and experience. If you don’t check this before submitting, you could be shortlisted for a role you can’t actually do, and this will be VERY embarrassing at interview. Instead, ask AI to create a letter more relevant to you by uploading both the job spec AND your CV...and then double check every detail!”
- Kim Helm: "There are two major red flags for me. 1) The AI cover letter states they have done jobs in line with the job advert, but they do not have these positions on their CV 2) When AI regurgitates the job advert that I have written word for word in the cover letter. Basically, remember the person who has written the job advert will be looking at your cover letter!"
Kim adds, "When you are competing in a highly competitive market, cover letters are often the only thing that can set you apart from other applicants with very similar qualifications. Soley using AI to create your cover letter does not give a positive impression to the recruiter about the candidates’ enthusiasm and passion for the role.”
These insights underscore the need to use AI as a tool to support, not replace, your unique contributions. Tailoring your CV and cover letter to the role and injecting your own voice are essential steps in crafting a strong application.
So, how can you showcase your own authenticity and use AI wisely?
- Tell your story: Go beyond a list of skills. Use real-life examples to demonstrate your problem-solving ability or how you overcame challenges in past roles. Personal stories add depth and credibility, helping recruiters connect with you on a more human level.
- Be honest, always: It's tempting to let AI inflate your achievements, but recruiters can spot exaggerations. Stick to the truth. Authenticity in your experiences ensures you won’t be caught off guard during interviews, where your real self will shine through.
- Showcase what makes you unique: What sets you apart from other applicants? Highlight your key strengths, unique experiences, and personal traits that make you memorable-whether it’s your creativity, resilience, or ability to adapt to new environments.
- Tailor for each role: Each job is different, and your application should be too. Don’t rely on one-size-fits-all templates. Customise your CV and cover letter by linking your past experiences to the specific requirements of the job, showing that you’ve done your research and are invested in the opportunity.
- Leverage AI for polish, not the whole package: Use AI for refining your grammar, checking for typos, or ensuring formatting consistency - but leave the heavy lifting to yourself. AI can’t match the personal nuances and thoughtful tailoring that make your application stand out.
- Proofread and personalise: After AI helps with basic improvements, take the time to proofread your application. Adjust wording to better reflect your voice, ensuring the final product feels authentic and not over-processed.
In the end, a genuine and adaptable approach will always make a stronger impression than an overly polished but impersonal application. Whether it’s your CV, cover letter, or interview, it’s your unique qualities that help you stand out.
Good luck with your applications!
ARU Temps – Afrika Priestley
Visit the Career Centre for resources on how to develop your CV and prepare for job you want.