The pros and cons of using AI in your job search – and how to stay authentic
You’ve probably seen the adverts by now. AI platforms that promise to find you the perfect job, write your CV, complete applications and even prep you for interviews – all without you lifting more than a finger. Tempting, right?
But before you let the robots take over your job search, we say buyer beware. These tools might save you some time and provide a helpful starting point – but they’re not a magic bullet. And they’re certainly no substitute for a thoughtful, human approach, especially if you’re a professional looking for part-time or flexible work, returning after a career break, or pivoting into something new.
Here’s our take on the pros and cons – and how to use AI wisely.
Where AI Can Help
There are some upsides to using AI tools when job hunting – particularly if you’ve been out of the market for a while or you’re feeling a bit stuck.
- ✅ Speed & Convenience
AI can help you quickly generate or tweak CVs and covering letters, saving you hours of staring at a blank screen.
- ✅ Confidence Boost
Some tools can highlight your strengths and experiences in a way that reminds you just how much you’ve got to offer.
- ✅ Interview Prep Support
Simulated interviews and question prompts can help you feel more prepared – especially if you’re anxious or rusty.
- ✅ Idea Starters
If you’re unsure where to begin, AI can give you a framework to build on.
Where AI Falls Short
But there’s a flip side – and it’s important.
- ⚠️ No Nuance
AI doesn’t understand context. It can’t handle the intricacies of a career break, a flexible working pattern, or a shift in direction. It may miss what makes your story uniquely valuable.
- ⚠️ Tone Mismatch
Many AI-generated CVs or letters sound overly polished, generic or formulaic. When a recruiter reads your application and then meets you, any mismatch in tone, personality or communication style can raise doubts.
- ⚠️ Overstating Skills
Some platforms ‘over-egg’ your experience – using inflated language or jargon that doesn’t quite ring true. That can backfire quickly in an interview.
- ⚠️ No Personal Touch
A covering letter or CV is your first opportunity to connect with an employer. AI can’t reflect your values, your enthusiasm, or your genuine interest in that particular role.
- ⚠️ No Human Feedback Loop
Unlike talking to a recruiter, coach or friend, AI won’t challenge your thinking or suggest new paths you hadn’t considered.
- ⚠️ Recruiter Red Flags
More and more employers are learning to spot AI-generated applications – and many are actively turned off by them. If your cover letter sounds robotic or impersonal, it might go straight to the “no” pile.
Want to Use AI? Here’s How to Use It Well
If you’re curious to experiment, go for it – but make sure you stay in the driving seat. Use AI as a helpful assistant, not the author of your application.
Ask yourself:
- 💬 Does this sound like me?
- 🎯 Does it reflect my real experience, or is it over-sold?
- 🤝 Would I feel comfortable defending every line in an interview?
- 🌟 Is my personality and motivation coming through?
- 🧠 Does it feel tailored to the specific role – or could this be sent to any employer?
- 👀 Would someone who reviews CVs daily spot this as AI-generated?
If in doubt, strip it back and rewrite it in your own words. Or better still, ask a human for feedback. At Ten2Two, we review CVs, coach for interviews and offer a range of tailored support to help you stand out as you are – not as an AI thinks you should be. All of these services can be found here.
Final Thoughts
AI can be a powerful tool – but it can’t replace you. Employers still hire people, not algorithms. And your career story, especially if it includes periods of care, change, or growth, deserves to be told with care and authenticity.
Use AI to support your search, but trust your own voice. It's the one employers really want to hear.
Download our free checklist:
“Six AI Pitfalls to Avoid in Your Job Search” – a handy guide to help you keep your applications authentic, accurate and personal.