How to Use AI When You’re Looking for Work (and Make the Process Way Less Painful)

Job hunting can feel like a full-time job. Endless applications, tailored cover letters, resume tweaks, interview prep… it’s a lot. But guess what? You don’t have to do it all alone.

AI tools can be a secret weapon in your job hunt – helping you save time, stand out, and remain organised throughout the process. Whether you’re ready to make a move, or are just testing the waters, here’s how to make AI work for you (instead of the other way around).

 

Upgrade Your Resume

Gone are the days of staring at a blank Word doc, wondering where to begin. The following AI tools can help kick start the process:

· Rezi, Kickresume, or Resume.io: Build polished, ATS-friendly resumes in minutes.

· ChatGPT: Ask it to rephrase bullet points, customize your resume for a specific job ad, or even write a summary section for you.

Pro tip: Copy a job ad into ChatGPT and ask, “How can I tailor my resume for this role?”. Total game changer (just remember to omit your personal details if you have privacy concerns).

 

Practice Interviews with AI (Without the Pressure)

Let’s be honest – interview prep can be overwhelming. And when you are trying to focus on preparing for an interview, the last thing you want is added stress. Use AI to alleviate some of that pressure and help you with the following:

· Use Interview Warmup by Google to get real-time feedback on your answers.

· Ask ChatGPT to act like a recruiter and simulate a mock interview with questions specific to your industry.

· Get help crafting STAR-format answers for behavioural questions.

· Practicing with AI feels less awkward than talking to your mirror (well maybe only marginally), and it will give you tips as well!

 

Stay Organised

Job hunting involves a lot of moving pieces – job applications, interview dates and reference checks. While it’s not perfect, AI can help to keep you organised through the process.

· Use tools like Notion AI or Trello to track everything.

· Try Jobscan or Huntr to manage applications and check your resume’s match rate with job ads (similar to the ATS systems used by a lot of big companies).

· AI helps keep things from slipping through the cracks – no more “Wait, did I apply to that already?”

 

Use AI to Level Up & Stand Out

Updated your CV, but still not getting callbacks? Maybe it’s time to:

· Ask AI to review your LinkedIn profile and suggest improvements.

· Use it to write a standout About section that’s more than just buzzwords.

· Summarise blog posts, news, or industry trends to stay sharp for interviews.

· Or even better, create content (like LinkedIn posts or a portfolio piece) with the help of AI. Show future employers what you’re learning and thinking about.

 

Final Thoughts: Job Searching Sucks Less with AI

Let’s be real – AI won’t get you the job. It won’t sit in the interview for you, and it can’t replace your unique personality, skills, or experience. But it can make the whole process less exhausting.

AI is a great assistant, but it’s not human.

It can’t offer up to date real-world insights into the job market, give you honest feedback, or connect you with decision-makers. That’s where a recruiter can make all the difference.

Because at the end of the day, getting hired is all about selling yourself. And while AI helps tell your story, a recruiter can help make sure the right people hear it.

 

 

Rutherford joined the team at Optimum in September 2022 with a background in law and customer service. His strength lies in being able to listen, identify and fully understand his client’s needs, and then deliver a timely and effective solution. Rutherford loves talking to people, understanding what drives them and is passionate about finding the right role that they will not only enjoy…