In the last several years, resumes have evolved beyond a list of experiences. Job seekers must now create a compelling, tailored document that grabs a recruiter’s attention within minutes and passes ATS screening
Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and Gemini can streamline this process, helping to build, refine, and customize resumes efficiently. We’ve gathered six powerful ChatGPT prompts to enhance your resume and improve your chances of landing an interview.
Starting From Scratch
If this is your first resume and you have no idea where to begin, don’t stress. The first thing you need to decide is which format to choose for your resume: chronological, functional, or combination. Believe it or not, not every format will showcase your unique experience in the best way. Give this ChatGPT prompt a try:
“I am a [ job title ] with [years] of experience. Should I use a chronological, functional, or combination resume format?”
ChatGPT will not only tell you which option is best for you and why, but it will also tell you why other formats are not a good fit for you, as you can see in the example below:
Once you’ve decided which resume format is best for you, you can create a layout of your resume. If you’re unsure what your chronological, functional, or combination resume should look like, use this prompt:
“Give me an example of what a [resume format] resume looks like for a [ job title ].”
ChatGPT will respond with a detailed example. From there, you can start building out your resume to mimic the structure ChatGPT showed you.
Elevate an Existing Resume
Given how much job search trends have changed, don’t be surprised if your current resume could use a bit of a facelift. Here’s a great prompt to help you get started:
“I haven’t updated my resume in a few years and want to ensure it’s up-to-date and relevant. Can you provide tips on what to include and leave out?”
In response, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of must-haves and must-have-nots! This will help you keep your resume relevant, optimized, and as close to one-page length as possible.
Regardless of your career length, your resume should not be a book. Again, recruiters spend limited time reviewing resumes. If they cannot derive your skills, experiences, and achievements within a minute or two, the chances of landing an interview will decrease significantly. This prompt will condense your experiences without compromising quality:
“Edit the bullet points on my resume to make the information concise and engaging while highlighting my achievements.”
In response, you’ll receive a refined version of your experience that emphasizes your accomplishments and enhances readability.
Tailoring to Specific Jobs
Recently, resume tailoring has become an essential job search practice. While it does take more time and effort, statistically, it also makes the job search more successful. The following prompts will help you customize your resume, alerting ATS systems and recruiters that you’re an excellent fit for their job opening.
“I’m applying for a job in the [industry] industry. What keywords should I include on my resume?”
ChatGPT will give you an exhaustive list of essential keywords for both the type of job you’re applying for and the specific industry terms associated with it. For example, use this prompt for a Marketing Manager position in the Life Sciences industry. You’ll receive keywords like “SEO/SEM, Patient Engagement, Regulatory Compliance, Go-to-Market Strategy, and Clinical Trials.”
Another effective strategy to tailor your resume is to copy and paste the actual job description for the position you’re applying for and ask ChatGPT to identify important keywords and phrases. Consider this prompt:
“I’m applying for a [position title] job at a [company type]. Based on this job description, what keywords and phrases should I include on my resume? [Paste job description]”
Similar to the previous prompt, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of terms and phrases that are likely to catch the eye of a recruiter and/or move your resume past the ATS.
Best Practices
ChatGPT and other GenAI tools exist to make processes like resume writing easier and more efficient. However, they must be used appropriately. Here are some dos and don’ts to remember:
- Do not let ChatGPT write your resume for you. Use this tool as an assistant, a brainstorming tool, and a second set of eyes
- Personalize the content ChatGPT gives you
- Only use information that is accurate and honest to you and your experiences. Falsifying information on your resume can seriously harm your career
- Be as detailed as possible to receive the best outcomes
Using ChatGPT or other genAI tools to enhance your resume can save time, improve clarity, and increase your chances of landing an interview. Leverage these prompts to create a polished, tailored resume that effectively highlights your skills and experience. Just remember to review and personalize the content to maintain authenticity and accuracy.
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