Using generative AI in job applications

Applying for jobs can be stressful, but artificial intelligence (AI) tools are transforming the way we create CVs, cover letters, and prepare for interviews. Discover ways to use AI in your job search - plus tips to avoid common mistakes and keep your applications authentic

Can I use AI for my CV and cover letter?

According to Luminate's Early Career Survey (ECS) 2025, a growing number of graduates are turning to AI for support:

• 43% used AI to edit their cover letters and CVs
• 35% used it to write them from scratch
• 26% relied on AI to help answer application form questions.

One of AI's most valuable uses is in tailoring your application to specific roles.

Many companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) - software that scans CVs and cover letters for keywords before a recruiter sees them. If your application doesn't contain these terms, it may be filtered out, even if you're well qualified.

AI platforms like ChatGPT or Google Gemini can help you identify relevant keywords from job descriptions and revise your CV accordingly.

The key is to use clear and specific prompts that guide the tool to support your goals. Here are a few helpful examples:

• Compare this job description to my CV and identify which bullet points could be improved to better match the role.
• Rewrite this paragraph of my cover letter to include keywords like 'managed' and 'optimised' in a natural way.
• Summarise the key responsibilities and skills in this job description.

Explore our example job application questions and answers.

It's crucial toÌýreview and personalise any AI-generated content. These tools can't fully capture your voice or the subtle details of your experience, which can make your application sound generic or robotic.

The goal of a job application is to land an interview - if you're selected, you'll want to be able to speak confidently about everything you've shared.

Can AI help me prepare for interviews?

AI is quickly becoming a go-to resource for interview preparation. According to the ECS, 29% of graduates use it to practice and prepare, making it a valuable tool to build confidence ahead of interviews.

There are many AI-powered platforms offering mock interviews, common practice questions, and personalised feedback to help you practice in a low-pressure environment. Some popular options include:

• AIApplyÌý
• Google's Interview Warmup
• Huru
• Interviews by AI

You can also paste a job description into a generative AI tool like ChatGPT to generate possible questions or refine your answers. Try these prompts to get started:

• Generate common interview questions for a software engineer role.
• Help me structure a response to 'Tell me about a challenge you faced' using the STAR (situation, task, action, result) method.
• Improve the clarity and tone of this answer to 'Why do you want to work here?'

While AI is a helpful practice tool, it's essential that your responses reflect your actual experiences and personality. Be honest and let your authentic-self shine through - it's often what sets you apart in interviews.

Do recruiters check for AI in CVs and cover letters?

Most employers know applicants use AI tools, and some actively scan for AI-generated content to ensure candidates genuinely represent their skills and experience.

Recruiters may use software to spot AI-written text, compare your application with your interview responses, or rely on their own knowledge to spot language that feels out of place.

It's best to use AI to enhance or edit your documents, not to create them entirely. Personalising your CV and cover letter with your own voice and experiences helps you stand out and prepares you to confidently discuss your experience in interviews.

Authenticity and trust matter - not just for securing the job, but for succeeding in it. If your application doesn't truly represent you, this often becomes clear later.

The biggest risk is getting hired based on information that doesn't reflect your actual skills or abilities, which usually leads to poor performance and a bad fit - for both you and your employer.

Is it fair to use AI when applying for jobs? ÌýÌý

Using AI in your job applications can be fair - but only when used responsibly and ethically. AI can help you organise your thoughts, overcome writer's block, and boost your confidence. However, it becomes unfair if you use it to misrepresent your skills, exaggerate your experience, or submit content that isn't truly yours.

Avoid shortcuts that compromise your authenticity, such as copying AI-generated text word-for-word without adding your personal insights or voice.

Remember, your application is a reflection of who you are professionally. Misleading employers can damage your reputation and harm your future career prospects.

When shouldn't AI be used in job applications?

It's crucial to recognise situations where AI use crosses ethical boundaries or harms your chances:

• Avoid using AI to complete personality or aptitude tests. These assessments are designed to evaluate your skills and character - allowing AI to do this defeats their purpose and is considered dishonest.
• Don't rely on AI to inflate your abilities or fabricate experiences. Doing so not only risks rejection but can have long-term consequences if you're hired based on false information.
• Don't let AI replace your authentic voice, especially in interviews or video responses. Over-rehearsed or scripted answers can come off as unnatural, undermining your connection with the interviewers.

Remember to respect your prospective employers' policies on AI - many companies now include statements in job adverts or applications about disclosing it's use. Failing to do so can be viewed as dishonest and may disqualify you.

How do recruiters use AI?

With hundreds of CVs to review Ìýfor each role, many recruiters use AI to speed up the process. These tools scan applications to identify candidates with the right skills, qualifications, and experience.

AI can also help reduce unconscious bias by anonymising applications - removing names, age, gender, and other details - so decisions focus on what really matters.

Some platforms go further by analysing video interviews, assessing tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice to evaluate communication skills and emotional intelligence.

AI chatbots are also used to keep candidates updated throughout the recruitment process, improving the experience for both applicants and recruiters.

Find out more

• Get advice on applying for jobs.
• Discover how to find a job.