Hi, my name is Melissa Peacock. I'm the Founder of The Perfect Resume. Every day, my team and I review up to 50 resumes, and we’ve noticed an alarming trend: AI-generated resumes. While AI tools can assist with certain aspects of resume writing, relying on them entirely can backfire. In fact, recruiters are noticing this pattern too and often use it as a culling technique.
If you’re not getting interviews, your AI-generated resume might be the reason.
Let me explain why.
AI-generated resumes often lack personalisation.
These tools rely on generic phrases like “effectively” or “successfully.” While these words may sound professional, they convey nothing unique about you. Imagine a recruiter reading 50 resumes and seeing the same words repeated repeatedly—it signals a lack of effort and individuality in your application.
Another issue is contextual errors.
AI tools often fail to understand the nuances of specific industries or roles. For instance, an AI might highlight your “budget management” skills but fail to include the scale of your budgets or how they relate to the job. Without this context, recruiters struggle to gauge your suitability for the role.
Generic achievements are another common problem.
AI-generated resumes might include statements like “Increased team efficiency by 30%.” While metrics are important, recruiters want to know how you achieved those results. Specificity matters. Instead of saying, “Increased team efficiency by 30%,” try writing something like, “Saved four hours per day by automating invoice generation and implementing Agile methodologies, reducing month-end processing by two weeks.”
Adding a personal touch is what makes a resume truly memorable.
A resume is more than a list of jobs and skills—it’s your career story. AI tools can’t connect your experiences into a cohesive narrative that resonates with recruiters. Without that connection, resumes often feel robotic and disjointed.
So, what do recruiters want to see?
They want resumes that highlight skills and experiences most relevant to their job. Using keywords from the job description is important, but they should be woven naturally into your achievements. For example, if the job requires leadership in cross-functional teams, describe a time you led such a team. Share the challenges you faced and the outcomes you achieved.
Recruiters also want evidence to back up your claims. Avoid generic buzzwords and focus on tangible results. Numbers, action verbs, and measurable outcomes create a stronger impact. For instance, instead of saying, “Strong leadership skills,” you could write, “Led a 12-person team to deliver a $2 million project three weeks ahead of schedule.”
It’s also important to address gaps or unique career transitions directly.
AI can’t explain a career break or pivot, but you can. For example, if you took time off to care for a family member, you might write, “After a career break to care for a family member, I am ready to contribute to dynamic projects.” This demonstrates honesty and proactivity.
Now, let’s discuss how to craft a standout resume without overly relying on AI.
Start with a strong foundation. AI tools can help generate ideas, but they should be a starting point—not the finished product. Focus on achievements, not duties. Recruiters aren’t interested in a list of tasks; they want to see the impact you’ve made. For example, instead of writing, “Managed social media accounts,” say, “Increased Instagram followers from 50 to 3,000 within six months by launching a targeted content strategy.”
Seek feedback from a mentor, career coach, or professional resume writer.
We can catch errors, refine your messaging, and ensure your resume aligns with your goals. Formatting is also crucial. Keep your resume clean, professional, and ATS-friendly. Avoid fancy fonts or graphics that might disrupt applicant tracking systems.
Finally, keep it concise.
Aim for 1–3 pages, focusing on your most recent and relevant experiences. Don’t clutter your resume with outdated or irrelevant information.
AI tools are great for inspiration, but they shouldn’t replace the effort and thought that go into crafting a personalised resume. Recruiters are looking for authenticity and attention to detail—qualities AI alone cannot provide. A tailored, well-written resume helps you stand out to recruiters. After all, it’s not just an algorithm reviewing your application but a real person.
If you’re unsure where to start or would like professional advice, contact us at info@theperfectresume.com.au for a free resume review or visit www.theperfectresume.com.au to learn more. Let us help you craft the perfect resume and take your career to the next level!
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