AI Content vs Authenticity in Job Search

There's no denying that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an incredibly helpful tool for job seekers. Whether it's drafting resumes, writing cover letters, or even preparing for interviews, we've shared several resources on how to use AI effectively for applicant tracking systems (ATS). But it raises an important question: how far is too far? People still crave authenticity. And with AI-generated content becoming more common, are we starting to lose the human touch? 

Hiring managers are increasingly frustrated with the rise of AI-generated resumes and cover letters, especially when those materials come off as generic, overly polished, and even deceptive. Many can now easily spot when a resume or cover letter has been created using ChatGPT or similar tools. According to many recruiters, candidates are copying job descriptions and feeding them into AI, resulting in robotic documents that stuff in keywords without reflecting actual experience or the person behind them.  

AI-generated cover letters are also drawing backlash for sounding overly formal and inauthentic. One hiring manager even discovered that a candidate's AI cover letter plagiarized content directly from the job post (The Daily Dot). 

Even LinkedIn posts are coming under fire. Hiring managers have expressed annoyance with AI-generated posts flooding their feeds, especially those that follow the same formula or overly used inspirational tone. When everyone sounds the same, no one stands out, and managers are craving authenticity over automation.  

How to Use AI and Stay Authentic

AI can be a powerful assistant in your job search, but it shouldn't replace you. Here's how to use it wisely: 

• Use AI as a starting point. Then, tailor it. Let it help you brainstorm and structure your resume and cover letter, but always personalize the content. Add your voice, specific accomplishments, and stories that only you can tell. 

• Edit for tone and clarity. AI can be overly formal or generic. Read your content out loud to ensure it sounds like you, not a robot. 

• Keep the focus on your actual experience. Don't let AI add skills or phrasing that you can't back up.  

• Make AI work with you, not for you. Use it to refine, not define, your materials. Think of it like spellcheck for your job search, not a ghostwriter. 

Ultimately, AI can enhance your job search, but authenticity is what will get you hired.