top of page
Search

AI Tips & Tricks- Using Generative AI to update Resumes & Cover Letters (Part 2/2)

Writer: Claire BradyClaire Brady

This is part 2 of 2 of a blog focused on how to best use Generative AI tools to update and improve your application materials for an executive search.


Let's recap from last week:

Last week we focused on exploring how Generative AI tools can streamline the process of updating your resume and cover letter, especially when customizing your application for a particular job opening. We discussed how to "decode the job posting" and I shared some Generative AI tools that you can use to upgrade your application materials for your executive search. Check out part 1 if you want to read the full post.


This week, in part 2, we will explore sample Generative AI prompts from my Chat GPT and Google Gemini that I use with executive coaching clients. These sample prompts should be a launching pad for you as you update and improve your application materials for an executive search.


Here are 10 sample Generative AI prompts for executive resume and cover letters:


1) Specify the role and industry you're targeting. "Can you help me tailor my resume for a project management position in the tech industry" or "a vice president for student affairs role at a private Jesuit college?"


2) "After reviewing this resume (insert resume content), please provide 4-6 strong bullet points that could be used in a high level executive profile based on my experience. Do not use specific titles or institutions but focus on overarching achievements and key areas of impact." OR "Can you suggest a professional summary for an executive resume targeting VP Student Affairs roles at private colleges?"


3) "Please help me to improve the writing of these resume bullets or this cover letter (insert content) for the role of <insert title> at <institution> OR paste the <position listing> OR "Revise and enhance my resume bullet points to quantify achievements, using action verbs and focusing on outcomes that resonate with senior executive roles."


3) "Please analyze this job posting and draft a summary of key points I should discuss in my application materials and paste <job posting>" OR "What are the 5-7 most important areas to focus on in my resume and cover letter from this posting? <paste job posting>"


4) "Please write a base cover letter that I can tailor to my experience using this job posting <paste job posting>. It should be no more than one page and avoid using filler words and jargon where possible."


5) "Can you please give me some sample technical skills that would apply for this role?" (or communication skills, leadership skills, etc...) <insert posting>.


6) "Please help me tailor an existing cover letter to a job posting <paste cover letter content and job posting>."


7) Ask for help in phrasing achievements. "How can I describe a project where I increased student participation by 40% in a way that stands out on my resume?" OR "Extract key metrics and achievements from my current resume and reframe them to quantify the impact I made in previous roles. Focus on results that align with the goals and challenges mentioned in this posting <insert posting>.


8) Request guidance on showcasing specific skills. "What's the best way to highlight my DEI and student advocacy skills on my resume for a Dean of Students role at a public university?"


9) Seek advice on how to end your cover letter on a strong note. "Please suggest 5 compelling closing statement options for a cover letter applying to an AVP Student Affairs role."


10) "Draft a compelling career narrative that highlights my journey, key milestones, and how each role has prepared me for the next challenge, specifically targeting an executive leadership position." OR "I have a strong track record in <Area of Expertise>. Help me craft a compelling narrative for my cover letter that demonstrates the impact I made in this area and how it translates to the needs of this posting <insert posting>.


General Tips for Generative AI tools:

  • Provide as much context as possible to ensure the tool understands your needs and goals.

  • Don’t hesitate to refine your prompts based on responses you get, making your queries more precise for better outcomes.

  • Remember that you can generate different options by clicking the generate button if you want to see other options.

  • You can also dig deeper into the response- and be directive with the AI tool. ie: Can you get more specific? Can you edit this writing without adding too many more words?

  • You can ask the tool to format your content a certain way or clean up formatting irregularities.

  • Don't expect the tool to generate a perfect final product. Use the generated text as a starting point for further editing and refinement.

  • Be mindful of potential biases in AI models. Always carefully review the generated text and ensure it accurately reflects your skills and experiences.


Remember, tailoring your prompts is an investment that pays off. By crafting prompts that directly address the employer's needs and showcase your unique value proposition, you'll increase your chances of landing the interview and ultimately, the job!


And yes, I always say please and thank you to the AI tool, it works hard for me! I also share my final version once I have verified for accuracy and edited in my voice, so that I can help the AI tool learn & evolve.



 
 
 

Comments


bottom of page