This is the first part 1 of a 2 part blog focused on using Generative AI to update resumes and cover letters for executive searches.
Generative AI tools can significantly streamline the process of updating your resume and cover letter, especially when customizing your application for a specific position posting. The key to effectively using Generative AI lies in formulating precise and detailed prompts that direct the AI to generate advice that's both relevant and tailored to your needs without losing your voice and diluting your experience. The most impactful strategy is to adapt your prompts to align with the specific requirements and nuances of the job you're targeting. This approach ensures that the assistance you receive is not only accurate but also perfectly suited to enhance your application, making it more compelling to potential employers.
First, decode the job description:
Keyword mining: Identify key terms, skills, and responsibilities mentioned. Don't just passively list them; translate them into specific actions you can demonstrate. AI tools can help you to identify these.
Problem-solution mindset: Think of the job description as a problem the organization or company needs to solve. How can your skills and experience be the solution?
Context matters: Is this a fast-paced startup-type operation or a well-established and legacy organization? Tailor your prompts to fit the organizational culture and needs.
What Generative AI tools do I recommend:
Primarily, I use free versions of ChatGPT and Google Gemini to improve bullet points, write executive profiles for the resume, improve or tailor the cover letter, and run the job posting through to analyze themes, etc... I also use these tools to create a base cover letter from the job posting that I tailor with my experiences.
There are also resume and cover letter specific tools such as Open AI Cover Letter Generator AI (free tool that crafts personalized cover letters using your resume & the job link) and Resume GPT (free expert tips with industry-specific advice for an ATS-optimized resume).
I also recommend Secta Labs a paid (one time) tool that transforms your uploaded photos into 100’s of professional headshots for folks needing to update their headshots at a low cost. I use these AI generated headshots on my website and my social media accounts.
I have no business relationship or partnerships with any of the AI tools that I recommend.
Join us next next week for Part 2 focused on sample GenAI prompts and my best tips and tricks for using these AI tools to tailor your executive application materials.

Comments