Ultimate guide to using ChatGPT for CVs, cover

Are you a candidate looking to enhance your job application process? Look no further! Our comprehensive guide is here to guide you quickly and easily - every step of the way.

From crafting an impeccable CV to writing a compelling cover letter and acing your job interview, we'll show you how ChatGPT can revolutionise your approach.

Discover why ChatGPT is the ultimate tool for optimising your job application documents, generating interview questions, conducting mock interviews, and even helping with post-interview follow-ups.

Let's dive into the exciting possibilities that await you!

Using ChatGPT to help you write your CV

A well-crafted CV is your key to unlocking new career opportunities. It's a chance to highlight your unique skills, experiences, and personal attributes to potential employers.

With the support of ChatGPT, we have gathered invaluable insights and expert guidance to assist you in creating a compelling CV that sets you apart from other candidates.

Can you use ChatGPT to write your CV?

Yes is the simple answer. But there is nothing simple about the advanced capabilities at your fingertips when you start using ChatGPT. With the advancements in AI and ChatGPT, you can ask the chatbot to write a customised CV in a matter of seconds.

Start with a prompt such as: “Write me a CV.”

This will generate a basic structure of a CV - which is helpful if you are writing your first ever CV and need a little help with the overall format, but it’s not the be-all and end-all. And here’s where the real secret to using this software comes out. It’s all about the revision (sorry!).

ChatGPT needs detailed information for it to be beneficial for you during the job application. So you must have all of the crucial information including skills, experience etc.

But we will go through this in greater detail, further along in the blog.

Firstly, let’s go through why ChatGPT can be beneficial for you when you're looking for a new job and if you are looking to update/write your CV.

Why should you use ChatGPT to help write/update your CV?

In today's fiercely competitive job market, nailing your CV has become an absolute must.

Luckily, with the ever-evolving wonders of AI technology, you now have a (not so secret weapon up our sleeves) in ChatGPT. With ChatGPT by your side, you'll be striding confidently ahead of the pack, armed with a CV which screams "Hire me!".

Let's dive right in, shall we?

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Right, all done! Let us share with you the three reasons why ChatGPT is the ultimate tool to help turbocharge your CV.

3 reasons why you should use ChatGPT for CV writing in 2023

1. It saves you time

When time is of the essence and you need a speedy resume update, ChatGPT has got your back!

By swiftly generating a draft based on your input, it saves you precious time. Whether you're in a rush or lack CV-writing experience, ChatGPT is here to make your life easier.

Let's face it, we all need that helping hand sometimes, and ChatGPT delivers it with a confident, knowledgeable, and action-oriented approach.

2. It’s free and easily accessible

Everyone loves a freebie and the same goes with ChatGPT.

ChatGPT is completely free and available anytime, anywhere. All you need to do is sign up for a free account, which you can do here.

There is also a paid version of ChatGPT - but we recommend using the free version when looking at updating your CV - it does just as good of a job.

3. It’s completely customisable

Your CV should reflect your individuality, and with ChatGPT by your side, customisation becomes effortless.

ChatGPT can customise your CV to suit your specific needs, whether you want to emphasise a particular skill set, target a specific job market, or highlight your achievements in a particular industry.

Right, now we have gone through why ChatGPT can help you with CV writing, let's go through the 3 things that you need to do before using ChatGPT.

3 things you need to do before even asking ChatGPT to help with your CV

1. Identify your needs

If you don’t know why you need a resume and precisely what things you need to include in it, there is no way ChatGPT can help you.

So the first step is to understand your requirements. So before you enter any prompts be sure to have the following at hand:

Identify your target job role

Remember, the more information you provide the better. So if you know the specific job, company type, and industry you want to apply for - make a note of this and have it to hand, so you can ask ChatGPT to tailor your CV accordingly.

Identify the length of your ideal CV

Some job applications require more information about your skills and employment history than others. So be sure to choose whether your CV should be one page, two pages, or even longer when you ask for support from ChatGPT.

Identify the key accomplishments you want to highlight in your CV

Stat-based accomplishments can help your CV stand out from the crowd. So make sure you know which ones you want to mention in your CV.

(HINT: The job specification may mention certain skills they're looking for. If you have them, put them in!)

Be sure to share the exact metrics with ChatGPT, so it can help you quantify those achievements.

2. Find out what ChatGPT needs

Here is a list of the information which ChatGPT needs to help you review/create your CV:

Personal Details:

Full name
Contact information (phone number, email address, physical address)

Professional Summary/About Me:

A concise statement summarising your career goals and the specific role you are targeting.

Work Experience:

List your previous employment history, starting with the most recent position.
Include the company name, job title, employment dates, and a description of your responsibilities and achievements in each role.

Job Description of your target role(s):

Find the job description of your target job role and feed it into ChatGPT. Here are a few ways to do it.
Be sure to get the exact description of the job role from your target company’s official page.
Use job board platforms such as LinkedIn and Indeed, to find job descriptions of your target job roles.

Education:

Provide details of your educational background, starting with the highest qualification.
Include the institution name, degree/qualification obtained, dates of study, and any relevant coursework or projects.

Skills:

Identify your key skills and abilities that are relevant to the desired role.
Include both hard skills (technical or specific knowledge) and soft skills (communication, leadership, problem-solving, etc.).

Certifications and Training:

List any certifications or training programs you have completed that are relevant to the role.
Include the name of the certification, issuing organisation, and date of completion.

Projects or Achievements:

Highlight any significant projects, research, or achievements related to the role.
Provide a brief description of each project and mention the skills utilised and outcomes achieved.

3. Gather all the above. You are now ready!

To guarantee that ChatGPT provides you with an accurate, standout CV template to work with, it's crucial to gather all the pertinent information and examples.

So, using the above information, invest some time in gathering and sharing as much information as possible to achieve the most efficient and impressive outcome.

Remember, this is your CV - so you need to ensure that all of the information you have at hand is an accurate, factual representation of yourself.

Right, you are now ready(ish) - but we have only touched the surface. Now we are going to go through how to use ChatGPT to help write and update your CV.

How to use ChatGPT to help write/update your CV?

Now that you're armed with the necessary information, let's explore how to effectively utilise ChatGPT to write or update your CV.

Follow these six steps to make the most out of this powerful tool:

Step 1. Clearly define your objective

Before diving into ChatGPT, clearly define your objective. Determine whether you're creating a brand new CV or updating an existing one.

This will help guide your interactions with ChatGPT and ensure relevant outputs.

Step 2. Create detailed prompts

To receive accurate and tailored results, provide ChatGPT with detailed prompts. Whether you're starting from scratch or updating your CV, clearly express your requirements, including target job roles, specific skills to highlight, and any additional information you seek.

The more precise your prompts, the more effective ChatGPT will be in generating relevant content.

Further along this guide, we will be providing you with some helpful tips on using ChatGPT prompts when you are writing your first CV as well as prompts for updating your CV.

Step 3. Be sure to engage in a conversational approach

ChatGPT operates through a conversational model, so write your prompts like you're having a DM chat with a knowledgeable CV expert.

Ask questions, seek advice on structure and formatting, and request specific sections to be included or revised.

This conversational approach will help you collaborate with ChatGPT effectively.

Step 4. Review and refine

Once ChatGPT generates a draft of your CV, review it carefully. Here are five things you need to do to keep improving your ChatGPT outputs:

Review
Revise
Review
Revise
Review
Revise

It can’t be repeated enough, because that’s how you’ll win the jobs you want.

Assess the content and structure. Make necessary adjustments, add or remove information, and ensure that your CV represents your skills and experiences accurately.

Remember, ChatGPT is a tool that complements your expertise and judgement.

Step 5. Iterate and repeat for perfection

Experiment with different prompts, explore alternative phrasings and seek feedback from trusted sources.

Through iterative refinement, you'll be able to fine-tune your CV and create a compelling document that showcases your skills, qualifications and expertise - effectively.

Step 6. Add a personal touch

While ChatGPT offers valuable assistance, remember to add your unique personality and voice to your CV. Ensure that the final document reflects your individuality and aligns with your career goals. ChatGPT serves as a helpful guide, but it's your personal touch that will make your CV stand out.

By following these steps and leveraging the capabilities of ChatGPT, you'll be well on your way to crafting a remarkable CV that grabs attention and impresses potential employers.

We previously mentioned in our guide that we were providing you with some helpful ChatGPT prompts for those who are writing a brand new CV and for those who want to update their CV.

So we are going to stick to our promise.

Check out below some useful ChatGPT prompts:

ChatGPT prompts for writing a brand-new CV

ChatGPT can be an invaluable tool for writing a new CV as it can provide suggestions, generate content, and help structure your resume. However, it is important to remember that ChatGPT is an AI language model, and it is always recommended to carefully read through and review the output it generates.

Human review and input are crucial to ensure accuracy, and relevance, and to tailor the CV to your specific needs and experiences.

Below we have outlined some ChatGPT prompts to help you when you write a CV for the first time:

I'm [INSERT NAME] and I need you to create a [INSERT JOB TITLE] CV for me. Please see below the detailed information which you need from me to create this CV:

Personal Details:

[INSERT FULL NAME]
[INSERT PHONE NUMBER]
[INSERT EMAIL ADDRESS]
[PHYSICAL ADDRESS]

About Me:

[INSERT CONCISE PERSONAL STATEMENT]

Work Experience:

[INSERT JOB TITLE]
[INSERT COMPANY NAME]
[INSERT CITY/REGION]
[INSERT DATES OF EMPLOYMENT]
[DESCRIBE 4-5 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACHIEVEMENTS IN THIS ROLE]
[HIGHLIGHT 4-5 SPECIFIC SKILLS OR PROJECTS]

Please note: Repeat the above work experience section, for each relevant job role you have had.

Key Skills:

[INSERT RELEVANT KEY SKILL]
[INSERT RELEVANT KEY SKILL]
[INSERT RELEVANT KEY SKILL]
[INSERT RELEVANT KEY SKILL]
[INSERT RELEVANT KEY SKILL]

Please note: Feel free to include more skills, you have a comprehensive list of skills, which you feel would be beneficial for the role you applying for.

Education:

[INSERT DEGREE OR QUALIFICATION]
[INSERT UNIVERSITY / INSTITUTION NAME]
[INSERT DATES OF STUDY]
[INSERT DEGREE CLASSIFICATION / FINAL GRADE]
[INSERT HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA / COURSE NAME]
[INSERT HIGH SCHOOL NAME]
[INSERT DATES OF STUDY]
[INSERT FINAL GRADE(s)]

Education:

[CERTIFICATION NAME], [ISSUING ORGANISATION], [YEAR]
[CERTIFICATION NAME], [ISSUING ORGANISATION], [YEAR]
[CERTIFICATION NAME], [ISSUING ORGANISATION], [YEAR]

You can also find the advertised job description below: [INSERT ADVERTISED JOB DESCRIPTION]

If you think your current CV is in a relatively good place and you want to take it to the next level, then ChatGPT can be a great tool for you to use.

Here's where ChatGPT can help you update your existing CV:

Edit your CV
Give detailed feedback to make your CV more clear and engaging
Tailor your CV for a specific job or career transition

So, if you haven’t updated your CV in a while and you want it to reflect the most recent work experience or you want to tailor your next application to a specific job description and job title, then ChatGPT can help you stand out amongst the crowd.

ChatGPT prompts for updating your existing CV

Below we have outlined some ChatGPT prompts to help you when you update your existing CV:

Please review my CV and suggest any improvements or edits. The job title I am applying for is [INSERT JOB TITLE]. Please find below my current CV [COPY + PASTE YOUR CV]
How can I make my CV more concise and to the point? Please review my CV and suggest any improvements or edits. The job title I am applying for is [INSERT JOB TITLE]. Please find below my current CV: [COPY + PASTE YOUR CV]
How can I make my CV stand out amongst other candidates? Please review my CV and suggest any improvements or edits. The job title I am applying for is [INSERT JOB TITLE]. Please find below my current CV and the job description I am applying for: [COPY + PASTE YOUR CV] + [COPY + PASTE YOUR JOB DESCRIPTION]
What are the most important keywords to include in my CV, using the following job description: [COPY + PASTE YOUR CV] + [COPY + PASTE YOUR JOB DESCRIPTION]
Review my CV and provide five ways to rewrite these bullet points for this job description to sound more impressive. [COPY + PASTE YOUR CV] + [COPY + PASTE YOUR JOB DESCRIPTION]

Using ChatGPT, you can effortlessly write or update your CV. With its advanced AI capabilities, ChatGPT generates customised CV content in no time. It's a real-time-saver, providing a swift draft based on your input. Best of all, it's free, easily accessible, and completely customisable to suit your needs.

But before diving in, it's important to identify your requirements and gather the necessary information.

Follow these steps: define your objective, provide detailed prompts, engage in a conversational approach, review and refine the draft, iterate for perfection, and add your personal touch.

Whether you're starting from scratch or enhancing your existing CV, ChatGPT is your trusted companion.

By leveraging its capabilities and the provided prompts, you'll create an impressive, tailored CV that truly stands out.

Now that we have covered how to use ChatGPT to help you write your CV, let’s look at the accompanying document which comes with most CVs - the cover letter.

Using ChatGPT to help you write your cover letter

In today's competitive job market, a well-crafted cover letter can be your gateway to landing that dream job. It's an opportunity to showcase your unique skills, experiences, and personality to prospective employers.

With the assistance of ChatGPT, we've compiled invaluable tips and expert advice to help you create a captivating cover letter that stands out from the crowd.

Why should you use ChatGPT to help write your cover letter?

Here are five reasons why you should use ChatGPT to help write your cover letter:

1. You have access to a vast knowledge base

ChatGPT has been trained on a diverse range of topics, including professional writing and cover letter best practices.

It can provide you with up-to-date information and suggestions based on its extensive training.

2. It can provide you with personalised advice

ChatGPT can provide personalised advice based on your specific needs and circumstances.

By providing relevant details about your skills, experiences, and the job you're applying for, ChatGPT can offer tailored suggestions to make your cover letter more effective.

3. It can help with your writing skills

Interacting with ChatGPT can enhance your writing skills. You can observe the phrasing, tone, and structure of well-crafted cover letters as it generates suggestions and edits.

This exposure can help you develop a better understanding of effective writing techniques.

4. It can be a huge confidence boost

Writing a cover letter can be intimidating, especially if you're unsure about what to include or how to articulate your qualifications for the role you are applying for.

Using ChatGPT can provide that much-needed guidance and support. By using the right prompts and providing the right information, ChatGPT can give you the confidence to present yourself effectively by highlighting your strengths for you.

5. It’s extremely time-efficient

If you are fully engrossed in a job hunt and are looking to apply for multiple roles, then ChatGPT can help you save time.

You may be applying for multiple roles which all require personalised cover letters, and this can be extremely time-consuming.

With ChatGPT, you can save time and effort by offering suggestions for various sections of your cover letter, such as the introduction, body paragraphs, and closing. It can help streamline the writing process, enabling you to create a strong cover letter more efficiently.

How to use ChatGPT to help write your cover letter?

In today's competitive job market, a well-crafted cover letter can be your gateway to landing that dream job.

It's an opportunity to showcase your unique skills, experiences, and personality to prospective employers.

With the assistance of ChatGPT, we've compiled invaluable tips and expert advice to help you create a captivating cover letter that stands out from the crowd.

Research and personalisation

Before diving into writing your cover letter, conduct thorough research on the company, its values, and the specific job role you're applying for. Tailor your letter to align with their mission and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the organisation.

Use ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas on how to personalise your letter effectively.

Start with an engaging opening

Start your cover letter with a strong and engaging opening that grabs the reader's attention. Consider using a compelling anecdote, a relevant industry statistic, or an intriguing question to pique their interest.

ChatGPT can help you brainstorm creative and attention-grabbing opening lines.

Highlight your achievements

Use your cover letter to highlight your relevant accomplishments, skills, and experiences that make you the ideal candidate for the position.

Collaborate with ChatGPT to present your achievements in a concise and impactful manner, emphasising how they align with the company's needs.

Show your passion!

Demonstrate your passion for the role and the industry by discussing why you're interested in the position and how it aligns with your career goals.

ChatGPT can assist you in conveying your enthusiasm and articulating your motivation clearly.

Match your skills to the job spec

Carefully analyse the job description and identify key skills and qualifications the employer is seeking. Showcase how your skills and experiences directly align with their requirements.

ChatGPT can help you craft persuasive statements and provide suggestions to strengthen your argument.

Demonstrate your cultural fit

Employers not only seek candidates with the right skills but also those who fit into the company culture.

Use ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas on how to showcase your compatibility with the company's values, team dynamics, and work environment.

Keep it short and sweet

Ensure your cover letter remains concise, typically no longer than a page. Focus on the most relevant information that directly supports your candidacy.

Collaborate with ChatGPT to refine your content and eliminate any unnecessary details.

Proofread, proofread and yes you guessed it - PROOFREAD!

Before submitting your cover letter, proofread it meticulously to catch any grammatical errors, typos, or inconsistencies. Utilise ChatGPT to assist in the editing process, offering suggestions for improved clarity and structure.

By leveraging the power of ChatGPT, you can streamline the process of writing a winning cover letter.

Remember, your cover letter should serve as a compelling introduction, emphasising your unique qualifications and passion for the role.

With these expert tips, you'll be well on your way to capturing the attention of potential employers and taking a confident step towards your desired career.

ChatGPT prompts when writing your cover letter

Show me an example of an impactful cover letter for a [INSERT POSITION TYPE]. Please keep the cover letter to no more than 250 words or less. Use short paragraphs.
Write a cover letter for a [INSERT JOB TITLE] based on this job description [COPY + PASTE YOUR JOB DESCRIPTION].
Write a cover letter based on this [INSERT JOB TITLE] position at [INSERT COMPANY NAME] and [INSERT LIST OF ACHIEVEMENTS THAT SHOW IMPACT AND METRICS], then [COPY + PASTE THE JOB DESCRIPTION].
Create a template for me that I can use to create my first-ever cover letter in the [INSERT INDUSTRY/FIELD]. I am looking for a [INSERT JOB TITLE] role. This cover letter should be engaging to read and use persuasive, intelligent, and clear language. Please keep the cover letter to no more than 250 words. Use short paragraphs.
Describe how I can effectively convey my passion for [INSERT INDUSTRY/FIELD] in a cover letter for [INSERT POSITION TYPE] at [INSERT COMPANY NAME].

Now that we have covered how to use ChatGPT to help you write your cover letter and your CV, let’s look at the next step of the process - the job interview.

Using ChatGPT to help you with your job interview

Job interviews can sometimes be stressful and let's face it, they require a lot of effort! If you're gearing up for a job interview, chances are you're deep-diving into company research and even trying to predict the questions that might come your way.

It's a time-consuming process which can seem overwhelming - but it doesn’t always have to be.

Can ChatGPT help me prepare for job interviews?

Yes! ChatGPT is a valuable resource for anyone going through the interview process. From providing sample interview questions to giving job seekers helpful tips to even conducting mock interviews, get creative in the ways you use ChatGPT to brush up before your next interview.

ChatGPT can:

Generate common interview questions for your field

ChatGPT can generate a curated list of interview questions tailored to your specific field.

It ensures you're well-prepared to tackle the most commonly asked questions in your industry, giving you a competitive edge.

Help you answer a question (and tweak and improve your interview answer)

When you're faced with a challenging interview question, ChatGPT can help you craft a well-rounded response.

Not only that, but it can also assist in refining and improving your answer, ensuring you showcase your knowledge and expertise with confidence.

Run a practice interview with you

Practice makes perfect, and ChatGPT offers the opportunity to simulate a practice interview.

It can provide a realistic interview experience, asking you relevant questions and allowing you to practice your responses, so you feel comfortable and prepared when the real moment arrives.

How to ask ChatGPT to run a mock interview with you

A valuable step in the interview preparation process involves engaging in a practice interview. Even if you lack a practice partner, you can rely on ChatGPT to fulfil this role.

Acting as an interviewer or hiring manager, ChatGPT will guide you through a dynamic conversation, enabling you to refine your interview skills effectively.

Before asking ChatGPT to help run a practice interview for you, be sure you have the following before submitting the prompt:

Information about the position
Information about the industry you'd like to focus on
Any specific questions or areas you'd like to cover

Once you have collated the above information, you are now ready to submit a prompt. Here's a sample prompt you can give ChatGPT to set up the interview:

“Hi, I'm [INSERT FIRST NAME], and I'm preparing for a job interview for a position as a [INSERT JOB TITLE]. Could you act as the interviewer and ask me some questions relevant to the role, with the job description in mind?

Here is an overview of the role I am applying for:

[INSERT BULLET POINTS ABOUT THE ROLE FROM THE JOB DESCRIPTION]
[INSERT BULLET POINTS ABOUT THE ROLE FROM THE JOB DESCRIPTION]
[INSERT BULLET POINTS ABOUT THE ROLE FROM THE JOB DESCRIPTION]
[INSERT BULLET POINTS ABOUT THE ROLE FROM THE JOB DESCRIPTION]

Please ask me these questions, one at a time:”

After ChatGPT asks you a question as the interviewer, you may need to click the "stop generating" button in the conversation, so you have time to answer. Once you give a response, ChatGPT will ask a follow-up question.

You can repeat this process until you feel like you have covered all bases - result right?

How ChatGPT can help you navigate the post-interview process

In today's competitive job market, it's essential to stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression during the interview process. However, many job seekers overlook the importance of the post-interview phase, which can greatly influence their chances of landing the desired position.

So with this in mind, we are going to discuss how ChatGPT can help you navigate the post-interview process with finesse and increase your chances of securing your dream job.

It can help you craft a thank-you email

One crucial aspect of post-interview follow-up is expressing gratitude to the interviewers and reaffirming your interest in the position. ChatGPT can provide valuable insights into structuring a well-crafted thank-you email.

By incorporating personalised details from the interview, such as specific points of discussion or challenges faced, you can demonstrate your attentiveness and genuine interest in the role.

Help you ask any follow-up/additional questions

Sometimes you may leave the interview but have lingering questions or may request additional information from the employer. ChatGPT can serve as a valuable resource for formulating concise and comprehensive responses.

It can help you articulate your thoughts clearly and address any concerns effectively, ensuring that you provide the necessary information to strengthen your application.

Showcase your value!

During the interview, you may have missed an opportunity to highlight certain skills or experiences that are particularly relevant to the position. ChatGPT can assist you in identifying those missed opportunities and guide you in incorporating them into your follow-up communication.

By emphasising your unique value proposition and aligning it with the company's needs, you can leave a lasting impression on the hiring team.

Continue to engage with them

Employers value candidates who demonstrate enthusiasm and proactiveness. ChatGPT can suggest ways to express your ongoing interest in the position, such as enquiring about the next steps in the hiring process or sharing relevant industry news or resources.

This level of engagement can help you stay top-of-mind with the hiring team and position you as a dedicated and knowledgeable candidate.

By utilising this powerful language model, you can craft impactful follow-up messages that showcase your enthusiasm, attention to detail, and commitment to the role.

Remember, the post-interview follow-up is an opportunity to reinforce your candidacy and leave a lasting impression on the hiring team.

So, why not leverage the power of ChatGPT to enhance your communication and increase your chances of securing your dream job?

Summary

ChatGPT is a valuable tool that can greatly assist you in various aspects of your job application process.

However, it's important to remember that while ChatGPT provides significant support, it is not a complete solution on its own.

Proofreading plays a vital role in ensuring the accuracy and effectiveness of your job materials.

While ChatGPT provides a great starting point and foundation, it's essential to add the human touch to your job application. Incorporating your unique experiences, skills, and personality is crucial in creating a compelling and authentic representation of yourself.

So, embrace ChatGPT as a helpful companion in your job search journey, but remember to take the time to review and refine your materials to ensure they reflect your individuality and align with your career aspirations.

By combining the power of AI assistance with your personal touch, you can maximise your chances of success in the competitive job market.

If you are currently looking for a new job, then please check out the amazing jobs we are recruiting for. If you wish to speak to one of our recruitment consultants, then please get in touch with us today!