ChatGPT is an advanced AI tool that helps people with writing, including crafting resumes. Many job seekers now use it to draft new resumes, improve existing ones, and find the right keywords to get noticed by employers.
How ChatGPT Can Help with Your Resume
When applying for jobs, you need a strong resume to stand out. But writing one from scratch or updating an old version can take a lot of time. ChatGPT simplifies the process by:
- Creating a resume from the ground up
- Enhancing sections you’ve already written
- Finding important keywords to help your resume pass applicant tracking systems (ATS)
This guide will show you how to use ChatGPT effectively for your resume, along with tips to get the best results. If you want to improve your prompting skills, you may also consider Google’s Prompting Essentials online course.
Why Tailoring Your Resume Matters
The average job listing gets about 118 applications, but only 20% of those candidates get an interview. To improve your chances, you should customize your resume for each job application. Doing this manually takes time, but ChatGPT can speed up the process by helping you quickly adjust your resume to match job descriptions.
ChatGPT works like a conversation. You give it prompts, and it generates responses. If the results aren’t quite right, you can refine your request until you get a version that works for you.
Now, let’s explore how to use ChatGPT for two key purposes:
- Writing a new resume from scratch
- Improving an existing resume
Using ChatGPT to Write a Brand-New Resume
Before using ChatGPT to write your resume, you’ll need a template. ChatGPT generates text but doesn’t format resumes, so you’ll still need to structure it properly.
First, decide which resume format best suits your experience:
- Chronological: Lists your work history in order and is best for most job seekers.
- Functional: Focuses on skills rather than job history, useful for career changers.
Once you’ve picked a format, start giving ChatGPT detailed prompts to create different resume sections, like job history and certifications. The more personal information you provide, the better the results. You can also include a job description to help tailor your resume for a specific role.
Example Prompts to Get Started
For professionals with experience:
"I’m going to provide details about myself: [Name, location, education, work experience, achievements, and career goals]. Please use this information to create a one-page resume for a [job title] with [X] years of experience. Include these skills in the skills section: [list of skills]."For career changers:
"I’ve been working as a [current job title] for [X] years, but I want to transition into [new industry/job title]. I have transferable skills like [skill #1, skill #2, skill #3] and recently completed a [professional certification]. Based on this information and the job description I’ll provide, please create a one-page resume that highlights my relevant skills."For recent graduates:
"I recently graduated from [university name] with a degree in [subject] and a GPA of [X]. I also completed an internship at [company]. I’m applying for an entry-level [job title] position. Here’s the job description: [paste job description]. Please create a resume that highlights my achievements and relevant skills."
Using ChatGPT to Improve Your Existing Resume
If you already have a resume, you can copy and paste it into ChatGPT and ask for improvements. You can focus on specific sections, like your summary or past job experiences, and even request changes to better align your resume with a job description.
Example Prompts to Improve Your Resume
Enhancing your summary:
"Here’s my current resume and a job description I’m excited about. Can you improve my resume summary so it better aligns with the role and highlights [skill #1] and [skill #2]?"Adding strong achievements:
"I’m applying for [job title at Company X]. Here’s the job description and my resume. Can you suggest four achievements to add to my most recent job experience based on the responsibilities listed?"Making overall improvements:
"Here’s my resume and a job description I’m targeting. Can you suggest five ways to make my resume stronger?"Identifying key skills and sections to add:
"I’m applying for [job title]. Based on the job description and my resume, can you suggest important keywords or industry terms to include?"
These prompts serve as a starting point, but you can adjust them based on your specific needs. If you want to refine your resume further, use action words like “strengthen,” “revise,” or “tailor” in your prompts.
Best Practices for Using ChatGPT for Resumes
To get the best results, keep these strategies in mind:
Be specific in your prompts - The more details you provide, the better ChatGPT can tailor your resume. Instead of saying, “Write me a resume,” try something like, “Write a resume for a software engineer with five years of experience in Python and Java.”
Refine your results - If the output isn’t quite right, ask ChatGPT to improve it. For example, “Make this summary more impactful by including metrics.”
Provide as much information as possible - If you have an existing resume or a job description, share it with ChatGPT. More context leads to better responses.
Review and edit - ChatGPT’s output isn’t always perfect. Read through the results, make necessary edits, and ensure that everything is accurate and relevant to your experience.
Other Job Search Tools
While ChatGPT can help with resume writing, it’s just one part of a successful job search. Be sure to:
- Research companies you’re interested in
- Prepare for interviews
- Network with industry professionals
By combining these strategies with ChatGPT, you can improve your job application process and increase your chances of landing your ideal role.