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Writer's pictureClaire Brady

How to Write Effective Cover Letters in an AI-Powered Job Search

Updated: Nov 19, 2023

In my third Blog post focused on embracing Chat GPT, I focus on how this tool can be used to write effective cover letters.


Job hunting has evolved significantly. With the rise of AI in recruitment, crafting an effective cover letter has become more crucial than ever. As we navigate this new landscape, let's explore some strategies for writing cover letters that capture the attention of both hiring managers and the AI systems they employ.


Understanding the Role of AI

Artificial intelligence is now a ubiquitous tool in the hiring process. AI scans and filters through thousands of applications, identifying candidates who meet specific criteria. In this context, it's vital to make your cover letter AI-friendly. According to Josh Bersin, a prominent HR and talent management analyst, "AI looks for specific keywords and phrases to determine if a candidate is a good match for the role. Tailoring your cover letter to align with the job description is key." Begin by running the job posting through AI (such as ChatGPT) and ask for an analysis of key themese in the job posting.


Customize Your Cover Letter

Tailoring your cover letter to the specific job is paramount. Incorporate keywords and phrases from the job description, but don't overdo it. Striking a balance between optimizing for AI and maintaining readability is essential. Be sure to connect to the themes that emerged from the AI review of the job posting.


Highlight Your Unique Value

Incorporate your unique skills and experiences. Share achievements, results, and real-world examples to demonstrate your qualifications. This not only captures the attention of AI but also makes your cover letter more compelling to hiring managers.


Optimize Formatting

Ensure that your cover letter is well-structured. This enhances readability and helps AI extract relevant information. How can you do this? Use clear headings and subheadings, use bullet points and lists, use consistent font and style, and pay attention to paragraph length and spacing. Finally, use keywords strategically by incorporating relevant keywords from the job posting naturally within your cover letter.


Proofread and Polish

AI and hiring managers appreciate a well-written, error-free document. Be sure to edit for spelling and grammar by using tools like Grammarly and Microsoft Word's built-in spell checker. Check for consistency by ensuring that your formatting, punctuation, and capitalization are consistent throughout the document. Review for clarity and conciseness: by removing any unnecessary jargon, redundancies, or wordy sentences. Avoid using overly complex vocabulary that could confuse both AI and human readers. Proofread for content relevance by analyzing your content for relevance to the job you're applying for. Tailor your cover letter to address the specific requirements of the position.


Stay True to Your Voice

While optimizing for AI is important, authenticity should not be sacrificed. AI can detect genuine enthusiasm and personality in your writing. Don't be afraid to let your unique voice shine through.


Run your draft Cover Letter through AI

Finally, once you have a letter drafted, run the letter and the job posting through an AI tool.


Here are some helpful AI prompts:


"Please review and provide feedback on my cover letter. I'm looking for suggestions to make it more compelling and professional."


"What are the strengths and weaknesses of my cover letter, and how can I enhance it to better match the job I'm applying for?"


"Could you help me identify any grammar or punctuation errors in my cover letter? I want to ensure it's error-free."


"I need assistance generating a compelling opening paragraph for my cover letter. The job I'm applying for is [job title], and I want to grab the reader's attention."


"Can you help me list some key achievements and experiences relevant to the job in my cover letter? It's for a [type of job] position."


"I'd like to add a paragraph in my cover letter highlighting my relevant skills and qualifications. Can you assist me in writing that?"


In the AI-powered job search era, a well-crafted cover letter remains your gateway to the interview room. By understanding AI's role, customizing your letter, showcasing your value, optimizing formatting, proofreading, and maintaining authenticity, you can navigate this new landscape successfully. As Margaret Atwood said, "A word after a word after a word is power." Harness the power of words in your cover letter, and you'll stand out in the AI-driven job market.



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