Why AI shouldn't write your CV or cover letter
It feels like AI can do everything, but there are some things it shouldn't do for you, like write your CV or cover letter. In today’s job market, it feels like AI can do everything — write essays, summarize articles, even generate entire job applications in seconds. With tools like ChatGPT and CV builders promising to “create your perfect CV instantly,” it’s tempting to let the bots do the heavy lifting.But here’s the truth: letting AI write your CV or cover letter for you can actually hurt your chances of landing the job you want. AI can mimic tone and structure, but it doesn’t know you. It doesn’t know what made you proud in your last role, why you switched careers, or how that late-night project you led changed the direction of your team. These personal moments — the “why” behind your choices — are what give a CV or cover letter life.
A recruiter or hiring manager isn’t just scanning for skills; they’re looking for authenticity. If your application reads like it was assembled from a template, they’ll spot it instantly.
AI-generated CVs often have a few giveaways:
• Overly polished, generic phrasing (“dynamic team player with strong communication skills”)
• Buzzword overload
• A lack of specific achievements or measurable impact
In other words, they sound too perfect — and not human.
Writing a CV or cover letter isn’t just about getting words on a page. It’s a chance to reflect on your growth, clarify your goals, and understand the story you’re telling about your career.When you hand that process over to AI, you skip that self-reflection — which can leave you less prepared for interviews. (If AI wrote your cover letter, will you know how to explain your own “motivations” in person?)
To be clear, AI can still help — just not as the author. It’s great for:
• Checking grammar and formatting
• Suggesting ways to rephrase awkward sentences
• Summarizing job descriptions so you can tailor your CV better
To conclude, think of AI as your editor, not your ghostwriter.
For more tips on how to write the perfect CV or covering letter, call us today on 01722 448 448