Candidate Guidelines: Using AI in Recruitment 

Applying for jobs can be tough, and there’s nothing wrong with needing some help along the way. We acknowledge that tools like ChatGPT can provide some support during the process, so here’s our guidance on how to make the most of AI in your job search, without losing your own voice.

How (and When) to Use AI for Job Applications

DO: Use AI to Boost, Not Fake

  • Research the company: Get a summary of what they do, latest projects, or trends so you can add personal insights.

  • List skills: Not sure what skills to highlight? Get suggestions, but be honest about your actual experience.

  • Brainstorm smarter: Stuck describing your leadership skills? Ask for ideas, then share your real story.

  • Structure your thoughts: Let AI help you craft answers in popular formats (like STAR), but put everything in your own words.

DON’T: Cross These Lines

  • Don’t copy and paste generic AI answers - employers can spot them, and they don’t show who you are.

  • Don’t inflate your skills or experience, AI isn’t a magic wand for your CV.

  • Don’t use AI for personality or situational tests that are supposed to show your natural judgement/abilities.

  • Don’t put private or sensitive information (like company numbers or financials) into AI tools.

Using AI for Interview Prep

  • Practice makes perfect: Use AI to run mock interviews so you feel prepared.

  • Get feedback: Try AI suggestions for body language, questions, or talking points, but always personalize your replies.

  • Know the limits: During real interviews (live or recorded), avoid typing out AI-generated answers. Stay genuine and trust your prep.

Why Authenticity Matters

Recruiters are looking for your real experiences, not a polished robot version. AI should make you clearer and more confident, but if you rely on it for your whole application, you’ll stand out for the wrong reasons and then may struggle when faced with tasks in the job. When you hit the interview, the difference between genuine stories and AI filler quickly becomes clear.

Use AI as your support act, not your lead singer.

Tidy Tips

  • Double-check anything AI helps you write, does it actually sound like you? A good test of this is to read it and ask yourself “Would I say this out loud?”

  • If you use numbers or sensitive examples, remove them before putting content into AI, and add them back yourself at the end.

  • Your lived experience is your edge; let AI help you shine, not cover it up.

In Short

AI is a useful tool to support your application, but your story is the main event. Use it to brainstorm and polish, not to pretend. Authenticity and honesty go a long way and remember, you’re more interesting than any algorithm.