Create a Resume / Cover Letter

The best approach is to use AI as a tool to help with tailoring, structuring, and optimizing keywords. 

Best Practices for Using AI for Resumes

• Create Initial Content: Use tools like ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini to create a first draft. Provide work history, skills, and the job description.
• Tailor for ATS with your CSU JobScan (Applicant Tracking Systems) Account: Paste the job description into JobScan. This helps the resume pass automated filters.
• Refine and Use Action-Oriented Language: Use AI to change task-oriented bullet points into results-focused accomplishments. Use active verbs such as “spearheaded,” “transformed,” or “orchestrated”.
• Quantify Achievements: Ask AI for suggestions on how to add metrics, such as “generated $1 million in revenue” or “increased efficiency by 20%,” to the experience.
• Create Tailored Summaries: Use AI to create a professional summary or objective that matches the company’s needs and the specific job role. 

Key Pitfalls to Avoid

• Fabricating Information: AI can “hallucinate” skills or experiences. Always check AI-generated content for accuracy.
• Over-relying on Keyword Stuffing: Too much keyword stuffing makes the resume unnatural and can hurt its ranking.
• Lack of Personal Voice: AI can sound generic. Rewrite parts of the resume in a personal style.
• Using Complex Formatting: Avoid too many columns, tables, or graphics, as they can confuse ATS systems. 

Effective AI Prompts to Try

• “Act as an expert resume writer. I am applying for [Job Title] at [Company]. Here is my current resume: [Paste Resume]. And here is the job description: [Paste JD]. Please tailor my resume to better match the job, focusing on highlighting my relevant accomplishments.”
• “Rewrite this bullet point to be more achievement-oriented and include metrics: [Paste Bullet Point]”
• “What are the top 10 keywords and skills I should include in my resume to pass the ATS for this job description: [Paste Job Description]”