As promised in the last blog post, today I'll be talking about safer ways to use generative AI in your application documents.
Why do I say safer? Well, an important thing to remember, is that when we enter an application process or exam, where we are being scored on our performance, using generative AI is considered 'cheating' if we haven't been told we can use it.
The situation for employers is that the use of generative AI in applications has resulted in an on average 50% increase in the number of applications they receive...and they already had too many. Yes, that can mean a 50% increase on workload; not welcomed by anyone! But to add insult to injury, the majority of these extra applications are pretty bad, so it's almost an all round waste of time.
Interestingly, the employers that I've been hearing from in the UK are still talking about how they can redesign their recruitment processes in the future to make it harder for people to use generative AI in their process. They say this might mean the death of the CV one day and might make room for more live online or in person tasks, potentially with software tracking your screen to ensure you don't have ChatGPT up on another window!
So how are employers identifying the use of generative AI?
Interestingly, the first method is, human recognition. Yes, simply humans noticing it.
I have experienced this myself in my work at universities, when reading personal statements and cover letters particularly, I will be able to spot paragraphs that are full of words - but actually saying nothing at all.
This is similar to the feedback I heard in some employer meetings over the summer. A lot of them are still using human recruiters to identify where generative AI may have been used, and they say it's still easy to spot as they do this day in and day out.
Now, is it possible for someone to have a lengthy conversation with ChatGPT for example, going back and forth on the job requirements and what the candidate has done?
Sure.
Will that produce a better application? Yes. But it will take a similar amount of time or longer than just writing it as an original piece.
Lesson 1:
Have authentic phrasing wherever you can so that:
You come across as having similar competence in person
You don't sound like generic AI
Articulate what you've done to the best possible extent
What else?
Lesson 2:
Time saving it possible, but not with the bit you hoped (the writing).
What can you try?
Get generative AI to help you collate what each particular job wants from you
Try asking it about the company and what they do, this might help you save time in researching the company
Checking your spelling and grammar
It's pretty helpful at generating example interview questions based on the job description - not bad to try!
We still have to have the caveat that it may not always be accurate, and the advice may not always be correct, so do try to double check the facts and information.
Ultimately it does pay off to spend more time on your applications to create higher quality documents - particularly for the UK market.
If you're struggling to figure out how to articulate what you've done in the best way, or how to do this for particular jobs, don't hesitate to get in touch with me to see how I can help.
Take a look at my services page to learn about my different appointments, including a free introductory consultation and click the links for getting in touch!
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