Use AI to land more interviews—not to get your application rejected.
If you want to use AI to get ahead of the competition, you should know- it is possible, but you have to do it the right way.
This post will let you know the best way to use AI so you don’t fall into the trap many people encounter when using AI to find work.
The vast majority of employers now use an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to help screen job applications. These systems help employers identify qualified candidates before a recruiter ever reviews a resume.
In addition to ATS screening, some employers have begun experimenting with hidden instructions or “prompt injections” in job descriptions to identify applicants who blindly copy and paste an entire posting into an AI chatbot.
If you’re thinking about using AI to help you apply for a job, follow these steps to give yourself the best chance of making it through the hiring process.
1. Read the job description first.
Yes, actually read it yourself.
Don’t immediately copy and paste the entire job description into ChatGPT or Claude.
Some employers have experimented with placing hidden instructions within a job posting that tell an AI to include a random word or phrase—such as “banana” or “palm tree”—in the generated resume or cover letter.
This is another good reason to read the posting yourself instead of relying entirely on AI.
Reading the job description also helps you understand what the employer is really looking for before you start writing.
2. Then use AI to help—not do everything for you.
After you’ve read the posting, copy and paste only the sections you need, such as the responsibilities or qualifications.
Then ask ChatGPT or Claude to help tailor your resume or cover letter to that specific role.
This gives the AI the information it needs while still keeping you in control of the process.
3. Give AI clear instructions.
The better your prompt, the better your results.
Instead of saying:
“Write me a cover letter.”
Try something more specific, like:
“Help me write a cover letter for this job description. Write it in a professional but natural tone. Tailor it to the position, incorporate relevant keywords naturally, and avoid generic or repetitive language.”
The more context you provide, the better the output will be.
4. Read everything before you submit it.
Don’t blindly copy and paste whatever AI generates.
AI can make mistakes.
Double-check:
- Job titles
- Company names
- Dates
- Grammar and spelling
- Overall tone
If something doesn’t sound like you, change it. If something isn’t accurate, remove it.
Think of AI as your first draft—not your final draft.
5. Submit your application with confidence.
Once you’ve reviewed everything and made any necessary edits, you’re ready to submit your application.
Taking a few extra minutes to personalize your resume or cover letter can make a much bigger difference than sending the exact same version to dozens of employers.
Final Thoughts
AI isn’t a magic button that instantly creates the perfect resume or cover letter.
It’s a tool that follows instructions and organizes information.
The best results happen when you work with AI instead of expecting it to do all the work for you.
If you follow these steps, you’ll be miles ahead of applicants who simply copy, paste, and submit without ever reviewing what AI produced.