7 Best Practices for Using AI When Applying for Jobs Online

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed the job application process, making it more efficient, personalized, and data-driven. Job seekers can now leverage AI to optimize their résumés, tailor cover letters, practice interviews, and even identify job opportunities that match their skills and career aspirations. However, while AI can significantly enhance job applications, it is important to use these tools effectively and ethically to maximize results.

This article explores best practices for incorporating AI into your job search strategy while maintaining authenticity, professionalism, and compliance with hiring standards.

1. Use AI to Optimize Your Résumé for ATS Systems

Most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen résumés before they reach human recruiters. These systems use AI to scan, rank, and filter applications based on keyword matches, formatting, and structure. To improve your résumé’s chances of passing ATS filters:

Best Practices:

  • Use AI Resume Scanners: Tools like Jobscan, Rezi, and ResumeWorded analyze your résumé against job descriptions and suggest improvements.
  • Optimize Keywords: Extract keywords from job postings and ensure they are naturally incorporated into your résumé.
  • Keep Formatting Simple: ATS struggles with graphics, images, and fancy fonts. Stick to standard fonts (Arial, Times New Roman) and use bullet points.
  • Quantify Achievements: AI-powered résumé builders can suggest ways to rewrite bullet points with measurable results, such as increasing sales by 20% or improving efficiency by 30%.
  • Customize for Each Role: AI can help tailor your résumé for each application, ensuring relevance to the job description.

2. Leverage AI to Write and Personalize Cover Letters

Cover letters are an opportunity to showcase your personality and motivation. AI tools like ChatGPT, Grammarly, and Jasper can help draft compelling, tailored cover letters.

Best Practices:

  • Use AI for Structure, Not for Copy-Pasting: AI-generated cover letters should serve as drafts. Modify them to reflect your voice and personal experiences.
  • Include Specifics: AI may generate generic content. Enhance it with personal anecdotes, achievements, and company-specific insights.
  • Keep It Concise: AI can help trim lengthy cover letters while maintaining key details. Aim for 3–4 short paragraphs.
  • Address Hiring Managers by Name: AI tools can help research hiring managers’ names from LinkedIn or company websites, making your letter more personalized.

3. Automate Job Searching with AI-Powered Platforms

AI-driven job boards, aggregators, and career platforms streamline the job search process by providing curated job recommendations based on skills, experience, and preferences.

Best Practices:

  • Use AI-Powered Job Boards: Platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter use AI to suggest jobs based on your profile and past searches.
  • Set Up Job Alerts: AI can notify you about relevant job postings before they become highly competitive.
  • Refine Search Queries: Use Boolean searches and AI filters to get precise job matches.
  • Apply Early: AI tools analyze posting trends and suggest the best time to apply, typically within 24–48 hours of a job going live.

4. Enhance Interview Preparation with AI

AI-powered interview preparation tools can simulate real interview scenarios, analyze speech patterns, and provide feedback on answers.

Best Practices:

  • Use AI Mock Interview Tools: Apps like Interviewing.io, Yoodli, and Big Interview provide real-time feedback on responses, tone, and confidence.
  • Analyze Common Questions: AI can generate likely interview questions based on job descriptions and company research.
  • Refine Responses with AI: Tools can suggest better phrasing for behavioral questions using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method.
  • Improve Non-Verbal Communication: AI-driven video analysis can evaluate eye contact, voice modulation, and filler words.

5. Utilize AI to Strengthen Your LinkedIn Profile

A strong LinkedIn profile increases your visibility to recruiters. AI can optimize your profile by suggesting better headlines, summaries, and keyword-rich descriptions.

Best Practices:

  • Use AI-Generated Summaries: Tools like ChatGPT and LinkedIn’s AI assistant can craft professional summaries highlighting strengths and achievements.
  • Optimize Profile for Recruiters: AI suggests profile enhancements to align with job opportunities.
  • Engage with AI-Recommended Content: LinkedIn’s AI recommends articles and posts to share, increasing your industry presence.
  • Leverage AI for Networking: AI-powered LinkedIn messaging tools help craft personalized outreach messages to recruiters and industry professionals.

6. Avoid Over-Reliance on AI and Maintain Authenticity

While AI can enhance job applications, excessive use can lead to inauthentic content and generic applications.

Best Practices:

  • Balance AI Assistance with Human Input: Use AI for guidance but inject personal insights into applications and interviews.
  • Verify AI-Generated Information: AI may produce outdated or incorrect information. Cross-check all details before submitting applications.
  • Maintain Ethical Standards: Avoid AI-generated embellishments or false claims that could lead to credibility issues.
  • Stay Adaptable: Hiring trends evolve, and recruiters value genuine, well-thought-out applications over AI-generated content.

7. Stay Updated on AI Trends in Recruitment

Employers increasingly use AI in hiring, from AI-based screening to automated assessments. Understanding these technologies can give job seekers an edge.

Best Practices:

  • Research AI in Hiring: Stay informed about AI-driven hiring trends, such as automated video interviews and skill assessments.
  • Adapt to AI-Based Screening: Companies use AI chatbots and personality assessments—practice with AI tools to become comfortable with these formats.
  • Understand AI Ethics in Hiring: Be aware of biases in AI hiring algorithms and advocate for fair recruitment practices.

Wrapping Up…

AI is a powerful tool for job seekers, but it should be used strategically. By optimizing résumés for ATS, crafting personalized cover letters, leveraging AI for job searches and interview prep, and maintaining authenticity, job seekers can maximize their chances of securing their desired roles. Staying informed about AI’s role in hiring ensures that candidates can navigate the evolving job market effectively.

When used ethically and effectively, AI can be a game-changer in landing job opportunities while keeping applications professional, personalized, and impactful.