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5 ways AI can optimize your job search

5 ways AI can optimize your job search

Looking for a job or internship as a college student can feel like a big adventure—and AI tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot or Google Gemini can make navigating the process easier than ever.  

So many people are applying for jobs right now that recruiters get thousands of applications every day. Companies use AI to help sort through all these resumes, and the number of applications sent on LinkedIn has shot up by more than 45% in the past year—about 11,000 every minute! Because of this, about 9 out of 10 employers now use AI to quickly scan and rank resumes before a real person even looks at them, according to the World Economic Forum. 

This means your application needs to stand out while still feeling authentic. AI can help you save time and spark ideas—but it’s a helper, not a replacement. Your personality and unique experiences should always shine through. Here are some practical ways to use AI in your job search. 

  Conduct industry research with AI

Generative AI isn’t just for writing—it can also help you learn about industries, companies and job trends. 

How to use AI:

  • Ask AI for an overview of a company, its mission and recent news.
  • Use AI to identify networking opportunities or common roles in your field.
  • Request summaries of labor market trends or emerging skills in your industry. 

Pro tips:

  • Always cross-reference AI-generated information with trusted sources like Handshake and O*NET. AI can make mistakes or “hallucinate” facts.
  • If you’re reviewing multiple sources, try NotebookLM, a CU Boulder-approved AI tool. It can organize your research, create quick industry outlines and even turn your sources into an AI-generated podcast! 

Bonus: Join regular AI Career Boost workshops this semester to learn more about how you can leverage AI tools in your career journey.   

  Craft a strong resume 

Tailoring your resume for each job takes effort. AI tools can help you write clear, impactful bullet points that highlight your skills. 

How to use AI:

  • Share your past responsibilities and ask AI to turn them into achievement-based bullet points.
  • Paste your current resume and ask for alternative wording.
  • Treat AI like a brainstorming buddy—give feedback and refine until it feels right. 

Pro tips:

  • Don’t copy, paste and submit the first draft. Edit for tone and accuracy.
  • Check for mistakes or irrelevant details.
  • Avoid sharing sensitive personal info. 

Bonus: Use Quinncia for resume reviews and check out more resume tips from Career Services. 

  Customize your cover letter

AI tools can speed up the writing process, but personalization is key. 

How to use AI:

  • Paste the job description, your resume and a cover letter outline into an AI tool.
  • Ask for a cover letter draft, then tweak it to sound like you.
  • Run multiple versions and pick what works best. 

Pro tips:

  • Proofread carefully—AI can make typos.
  • Add company-specific details to show you’ve done your research. 

Bonus: Schedule a review with an advisor in Career Services for more advice. 

  Write professional emails

Not sure how to respond to an interview invite or connect on LinkedIn? AI tools can help you draft polished messages. 

How to use AI:

  • Paste the email you received (minus personal info) and ask for a professional response.
  • Use AI to draft LinkedIn introductions or thank-you notes. 

Pro tips:

  • Always personalize the tone—your voice matters.
  • Proofread before sending. 

Bonus: Schedule time with a career advisor to chat through the job search process, including how to answer an email or tips to negotiate a starting salary. 

  Prepare for interviews

Practice makes perfect! AI tools can help you anticipate questions and rehearse answers. 

How to use AI:

  • Ask for common interview questions based on the job description.
  • Come up with answers to these questions and practice out loud, or request sample answers and rewrite them in your own words. 

Pro tips:

  • Remember, real people will interview you—make your responses authentic.
  • Use AI for ideas, not scripts. 

Bonus: Try Quinncia’s mock interview tool or meet with an advisor. 

Rember—AI tools are great, but they aren’t perfect. They can’t replace your creativity or personal touch. Use them to save time and spark ideas, but make sure your application reflects who you are. 

 

Find support

Career Services is here to help! Check out CU Boulder’s AI tools list and the AI Resource Guide for tips and more. Here are some more resources to learn about AI: 

  Career Academy: Sign up to complete free certificates from top companies like Google, Microsoft, Adobe, Salesforce and more. Each certificate teaches you the latest ways to use AI in fields like content creation, data analytics, UX/UI design and over 40 other areas. 

  LinkedIn Learning: LinkedIn Learning has tons of quick, easy-to-watch courses on professional skills. You can learn about all kinds of AI topics here, whether you’re just starting out or already know about using AI tools. 

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