6 Great Ways to Boost Your Job Search with Generative AI

Have you embraced generative AI for your job search yet? If yes, I'd love to hear from you in the comments -- what tools and tips do you have for your fellow job seekers that may help them accelerate their search, stay organized, position themselves more directly for roles of interest, etc.? I've got a few current favorites to share:

? 1. Create Professional Headshots with AI

I specialize in LinkedIn profile makeovers, among other things. And I work with a lot of clients who either don't love their headshot or realize that they don't exactly look like their headshot anymore. Humans are visual by nature. Thus, a polished, inviting, and yes, current, headshot on LinkedIn is crucial. But arranging a photo shoot can be costly and time-consuming.

Fortunately, there are several low-cost AI headshot platforms that can take prohibitive cost and effort out of the equation. (I covered this more in-depth in an earlier Steer Your Career .)

Here are two that I love:

HeadshotPro: With a focus on LinkedIn-appropriate styling, this platform lets you create images that fit specific industries or roles, such as tech, finance, or creative sectors.

TryItOn.ai is another AI-powered headshot tool, ideal for experimenting with different looks before committing to a specific style.

Whichever option you choose, you'll likely generate a few shots that you really like and, bonus: a few absolutely hilarious ones.

?2. Generate Tailored Cover Letters

As you may know, I'm a huge believer in the potential power of a compelling cover letter when applying for jobs. I also realize that, for many people, writing unique cover letters for each job can be challenging, especially if you're applying to multiple positions. Generative AI can take some of the stress out of this process by creating tailored cover letters with darned near a click of a button.

Important note: I recommend that you use AI as a solid starting point for cover letters. The output is usually not perfect nor written in your own unique voice. So be sure and spend at least a bit of time customizing once you've got an AI-draft in hand. (Check out my LinkedIn Learning course "Writing a Cover Letter" as you fine-tune.)

ChatGPT and Copy.ai can generate cover letters by using information you input about the company, role, and your experience.

I'm also really digging a new AI-enabled platform called JobLogr , which includes a cover letter generator. (JobLogr offers a 7-day free trial.)

? 3. Optimize Your Resume for Each Role

Generative AI can not only streamline resume writing but also make it highly customized for each role you apply to. Many AI platforms analyze job descriptions, highlighting keywords and skills you might have missed.

JobLogr is also fantastic resource for resume customization. The platform can analyze job descriptions and create specific resume versions tailored to highlight your most relevant skills and experience.

Zety and Rezi also offer AI-guided resume builders that make it easy to input your data and generate a polished, ATS-friendly resume.

? 4. Use AI for Job Search Tracking and Organization

Managing job applications, follow-ups, and deadlines can be overwhelming, especially if you’re juggling multiple opportunities. AI-powered tools can streamline this process.

JobLogr (yep, it seems to be a wonder platform) helps track applications, manage interviews, and set reminders for follow-ups. You can log your progress with each application, add notes about interview feedback, and stay organized.

Teal HQ also provides an easy-to-navigate dashboard where you can track applications, research companies, and store resume versions.

? 5. Practice for Interviews with AI

I'm just familiarizing myself with GenAI tools that play the role of a virtual coach, helping you rehearse responses and gain confidence. Based on my findings, here are two good options to explore:

Interview Warmup by Google offers a structured way to practice. It simulates common interview questions in your industry, helping you practice responses and providing real-time feedback on areas like conciseness and relevance.

Job Interview Coach is another AI-powered tool that provides realistic interview practice and feedback.

? 6. Analyze Job Descriptions for Hidden Insights

Job descriptions often contain clues about the company culture and what they prioritize in candidates. GenAI tools can analyze job postings, extracting keywords and highlighting core skills and attributes.

ChatGPT can help you break down a job description, identifying key phrases, skills, and keywords to target. By asking AI to find critical points, you can tailor your resume, cover letter, and interview responses to align better with the role.

And one of the OG AI-job search platforms, Jobscan , provides ATS insights, showing how well your resume matches the job description and offering suggestions on keywords you may need to include.

Job search can be (ok, generally is) a slog. GenAI tools are transforming the process, making it easier and more efficient for you to customize, track, organize, and put your best foot forward. Now, I don't recommend simply turning things over to AI then calling 'er done. But these tools and platforms are more than worth checking out and weaving into your effort.

Thanks for giving this a read. If you'd like to access more of my job search and professional development tips:

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