Career Services

AI & the job search

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) has several uses today, including the ability to improve aspects of the job search process. By learning how to effectively communicate with generative AI and maintain your own voice, it can be a highly beneficial tool to use when exploring your next career decisions.

Disclaimer: AI is still an emerging technology, and as such, this page will be updated periodically to reflect evolving information. The information on this page should be used with caution. Please acknowledge the following:

  • The contents of this page do not endorse in any way the use of AI in academic purposes or coursework at the University of Washington.
  • AI is a tool, and should only be used to supplement your job search instead of replacing key areas (like writing your own resume, conducting networking, etc.).

What is generative AI?

Generative AI (GenAI) is a type of artificial intelligence technology that can produce various types of content, including text and imagery through machine learning. GenAI platforms, such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot and Bing Chat, can generate text based on the input or “prompt” that the user provides it. Prompts can be used to craft various things, from resumes, to asking advice on certain topics.

Sample prompts

To get the most out of GenAI tools, like ChatGPT, use specific prompts to indicate what you want the AI to generate. Here are sample prompts related to the job search:

  • What careers will let me work remotely?
  • Compile a list of the ten most common careers for someone studying Law, Economics, and Public Policy.
  • What can I do with if I were to major in Psychology degree?
  • I have interests in history and biology [insert your own interests]. What are five career paths that match my interests?
  • Provide an outline of how to write a cover letter using experiences from my resume that are tailored to this job description. [insert job description] [insert resume]
  • Review my resume thoroughly and provide five specific ways I can make improvements. [insert resume]
  • Using the resume and job description below, showcase ten relevant skills I should highlight to be considered a successful candidate. [insert resume] [insert job description]
  • Draft a 300-character LinkedIn connection request based on [insert person’s profile].
  • Based on my resume, develop three concise and captivating elevator speeches that I can use to network with other professionals based on my strengths. [insert resume]
  • Provide a comprehensive list of five essential questions to ask during an informational interview with a [insert role/professional’s job title].
  • Generate ten specific interview questions based on the job description. [insert job description]
  • What are the best questions for me to ask a hiring manager for [job title] at [company/type of company]?
  • I’m interviewing for [job title] at [company]. What sort of [case study/scenario/behavioral questions] should I expect the employer to ask me?
  • Provide a sample thank you letter for a job interview with [company].

How to make the most of GenAI

In order to get the most out of GenAI, both ethically and efficiently, here are five best practices to keep in mind when using tools like ChatGPT:

  • Be specific: When generating prompts for various topics (such as the ones mentioned above), be sure to use specific language to communicate your goals. For example, when preparing for an interview, be sure to mention the role you are applying for and the job description.
  • Try multiple prompts: To get best result with GenAI, it helps to use multiple prompts or queries with a chatbot, so that it can give you results that better match what you are looking for. After entering a prompt and seeing the response, ask the chatbot follow-up questions.
  • Don’t rely soley on GenAI: Crafting resumes and talking points for interviews for your job search can be a great starting point as you apply for internships or jobs. However, the use of GenAI should never entirely replace your job searching efforts. Be sure to add your own perspective and creativity when developing and preparing your application materials, to ensure you are including your unique voice.
  • Avoid sharing personal information: When developing prompts in chatbots like ChatGPT, be sure to not include your name, address, phone number, or email.
  • Meet with a Career Services coach: If you are an undergraduate student, graduate student, or alumni (up to 3 years after graduation) of UW Bothell, consider utilizing drop-ins, or schedule an appointment with a career coach in Career Services to discuss job searching best practices and additional questions you might have.

How AI can (and cannot) help in a job search

While GenAI is a powerful tool that can support you in your job search, there are some important things to remember:

What it can do

  • Make the job search process more approachable by aligning resumes with specific job titles.
  • Gather useful information about upcoming interviews by finding relevant questions or insights.
  • Offer a space to research and explore new career opportunities.

What it cannot (and should not) do

  • Replace or substitute your own unique voice or perspective as a job seeker.
  • Offer complete accuracy in producing application materials (always proofread, edit, and fact-check content).
  • Guarantee you an internship or job.

Additional resources

For more on resources on AI and the job search, check out the following:

  • Linkedin Learning: Linkedin Learning offers some valuable courses on a range of subjects. UW Bothell students and alumni can activate Linkedin Learning for free with their UW credentials. For more on how GenAI can help in the job search check out some of these courses:
  • Employers often use application tracking systems (ATS) to screen applicants based on keywords. Tools like jobscan.co allow users to scan their resumes to see how well a resume includes keywords that match a job they are applying for.