With the increased attention and usage of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools such as ChatGPT and Google BARD, it’s important to consider how these tools can help in the job search process and where to proceed with caution.
Yale University Policy on AI Tools
For Yale classes, the use of AI tools is governed by individual course policy, set by each instructor. Unless specifically permitted by instructor policy, students cannot incorporate language generated by AI tools directly into their papers.
For employment application materials such as resumes and cover letters, students are permitted to use AI tools. However, for graduate school and fellowship applications, students should align with the course policy above and not apply AI tools to those materials.
Office of Career Strategy Recommendations on AI Tools
There are many ways that AI can help in the job search process. OCS encourages students to think of AI as a tool to enhance, not replace one’s work. Students still write the initial content and can then use AI to improve when needed. It is important to ask targeted questions to optimize your materials. Give details about the opportunity, allude to specific sources if needed, and submit follow up questions if the initial response does not match your needs. Try experimenting a few times by asking your question in a few different ways to see if you get a better answer.
Important Considerations when using AI Tools
- Maintain data privacy by never including your name or any other personal identifying information when submitting documents for review. The exception is using Yale’s subscription to Big Interview which is a private subscription-based platform for Yale students to submit their resume and receive feedback.
- Do not blindly accept the suggestions from any AI Tools but instead decide which edits are appropriate.
- Verify the suggestions as AI does not always pull from authoritative sources, and therefore may provide inaccurate information.
- Always start with your own original work because the resume and cover letter will better represent your interests and background, and you will be much more prepared to answer questions based on those materials.
- Employers may scan application materials to verify whether an AI tool was used, which may result in your application being denied. Instead of directly copying suggestions from an AI tool, incorporate your own personal style to avoid this risk and sound more authentic.
- The timeliness of the data sources differs among various AI tools. For example, ChatGPT’s source ends with data from 2021, whereas Google Bard provides up to date information. This can be especially relevant when deciding which tool to conduct research on topics such as employers, careers, and cost of living.
Examples of how AI Tools can help with the job search process
Career Exploration – Ask for examples of what various job functions involve or what industries align with your interests.
- What careers blend interest in policy and interest in technology?
- What are some entry-level positions in the pharmaceutical industry?
Target Lists – Create a target list of employers based on anything from sector, industry, function, location and more.
- Create a list of the top 50 nonprofit consulting employers in the northeast that typically hire recent graduates.
- *OCS also has the Job Market Insights Tool, which can provide specific company data based on occupational role and location.
Interview Preparation – Request answers for challenging interview questions.
- What behavioral interview questions should I expect to be asked for an entry level investment banker position?
Informational Interviews – Get suggestions on people to network with, questions to ask, or how to craft an email request.
- Suggest some questions for an informational interview with a Product Marketing Manager.
Negotiating an Offer – Compile helpful examples of cost-of-living data in trying to negotiate your salary.
- What is the cost of living in Peoria, IL for a recent graduate living on their own?
- *OCS’ Job Market Insights Tool, can provide annual earnings for specific occupational data.
Resumes and Cover Letters – Generate an original draft and then request specific advice on how to improve based on the opportunity.
- Improve the following resume descriptions by highlighting the transferable skills of market research and collaboration.
- Make suggestions so that the uploaded resume reflects my attention to detail and ability to work collaboratively with other team members since these are top strengths to showcase to potential employers.
- Review my cover letter and add a few sentences explaining that I am a strong problem solver.
- *OCS has Big Interview, AI Resume Review & Mock Interview tool which is exclusively for Yale students to review their resumes and provide suggestions for improvement.
Students are welcome to contact the Office of Career Strategy with any questions about using AI tools for their job search.
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