side hustle helper: ChatGPT Prompts for An ATS Resume

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What is an ATS resume?​

An applicant tracking system (ATS) is software used during the hiring process to sort and rank job applicants automatically. This software can screen applicants, check references and complete new hire paperwork.
Many large companies use an ATS to preliminarily vet applicants so hiring managers don’t have to spend all their time sorting through piles of resumes.
This isn’t always a bad thing — in fact, hiring managers make up their minds about a candidate by looking at their resume for an average of just 7.4 seconds, and companies that use ATS software can often afford more time than that to each resume that makes it past the initial screen.
But applicant tracking systems are far from perfect — 62% of companies admit that qualified candidates slip through the cracks with an ATS, and only 25% of resumes screened by an ATS are eventually seen by a real person.
Nonetheless, it’s clear that the ATS is here to stay, so how do you make an ATS resume? We’ll get to that in a second — first, we’ll tell you how the systems operate.

How does an ATS resume scanner work?​

An ATS can’t read your resume the way a human would. Instead, it scans resumes for keywords often listed in the job description and matches them to their list of prerequisite skills and metrics desired by the employer.
For example, your resume profile might read:
“Detail-oriented marketing professional with 5+ years of advertising agency experience in end-to-end campaign management. Led a team of media buyers and media planners to implement cross-channel digital marketing campaigns.”
While a human could pick up on the subtle nuances and context clues, an ATS is trained to scan and pick out keywords. Here’s what the ATS would likely see:

• Detail-oriented
• 5+ years of experience
• Advertising agency
• Led a team
• Cross-channel digital marketing campaigns

The ATS will then cross-reference your qualifications with what the company is looking for and rank you against other candidates. If you pass a certain threshold, your resume is likely passed along to the relevant hiring manager to take a closer look.
How can you create a resume that gets you past the applicant tracking system? Keep reading to learn how to target your resume to beat the bots.

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1. Pick the right layout​

Did you know that up to 75% of qualified applicants have been rejected because the ATS software couldn’t read their resumes?
Picking a resume template with a simple layout, logical hierarchy and easy-to-read font can be the difference between getting the call for an interview and having your resume discarded before it’s even seen.
Here are two particular problem areas in resume layouts:

• Headers and Footers: While humans can easily contextualize information in these resume areas, some applicant tracking systems cannot identify vital details commonly stored here, like contact information. It’s best to avoid any that have information stored in a designated header or footer.
• Columns: Some applicant tracking systems will read columns left to right instead of column by column, meaning that your neatly arranged columns will become jumbled and indiscernible to the ATS. Stick to a simple layout to ensure your info isn’t scrambled by incorrect formatting.

2. Use an easy-to-read font​

Similar to the layout, applicant tracking systems can best scan your resume when you use a clear, easy-to-read font like Times New Roman, Helvetica, Calibri, Arial, Tahoma or Garamond.
You should also consider font size. While some people use the smallest size possible to fit more information, it’s best to stick to the standard 12-point font on your resume.
For important text like your name or section headings, it’s good practice to size these headings no more than double your smallest font — keeping these titles in 24-point font or smaller is best.
It’s easy to underestimate the importance of fonts on your resume, but these days, you need to design your resume for both humans and bots. If it’s done right, hiring managers probably won’t even notice — but when it’s done wrong, your font choice can significantly detract from the quality of your application.

3. Use standard formatting​

While beautifully designed resumes may be striking to the human eye, some applicant tracking systems may be unable to read them. Here’s where you can use resume formats to your advantage.
When creating an ATS-compatible resume, it’s best to avoid fancy formatting like:

• Tables: An ATS may not read the information in a table in the correct order.
• Logos: The ATS won’t pick up what the logo says, equating to wasted resume space.
• Images: Many image files aren’t compatible with ATS software.
• Graphics: The ATS may not be able to interpret information in a graphic correctly.
• Text boxes: The ATS may be confused by the information hierarchy of a text box.

Instead, try using formatting styles that won’t confuse an ATS if the resume is converted to a plain-text file, such as:

• Bold
• Italics
• Underline
• Colors
• Bullets

Many applicant tracking systems will convert your resume to a text-only file, meaning much of the fancy formatting you use will get lost. Using text-only modifications will ensure that the ATS doesn’t miss out on valuable information in your resume.

4. Use Clear, Concise Headings​

Stick to conventional headings like “Work Experience,” “Education” and “Certifications” to convey your message.
The top half of your resume is the most valuable space since it’s what a hiring manager likely looks at first, so you should also list your headings in order of importance.
Start with an objective statement or professional summary. Then, if you’ve been out of school for a few years and have significant work experience, your work experience should sit in this prime real estate. However, if you’re a student searching for an internship, it might be more prudent to put your education in the top spot to downplay a lack of work experience.

5. Incorporate the Right Keywords​

Using the right keywords correctly might be your golden ticket to getting past the bots. Up to 75% of large companies automatically scan resumes for keywords to determine candidate relevancy. However, it’s important to know how to incorporate these keywords correctly. Keyword stuffing is a recent phenomenon when people try to stick too many keywords in a sentence. Even though it might look great to bots, it would likely sound unnatural and repetitive to a human reader.
To avoid keyword stuffing, it’s important to incorporate your keywords with context. While you could pull keywords from the job description and list them all under a “skills” section, some applicant tracking systems automatically assign a mere six months of experience to any skill listed without an exact date. Instead, incorporate your keywords into your work history or other relevant sections by following a “show, not tell” mindset.
Using context is especially important for showcasing soft skills. While you could list soft skills like collaboration, teamwork and attention to detail, showing them in your work history will provide much more value than mentioning them in a skills section.

6. Get the file name right​

While it may be tempting to create a generic “one-size-fits-all” resume to save time, 18% of recruiters have said they will immediately discard a resume that isn’t customized to the job.
An easy way to customize your resume is to use a standard, customized file name. However, many job applicants make the mistake of sending in an unprofessional or untidy-sounding file name. Take a look at the below examples:

• Sarah-Smith-January2021-Resume.pdf
• Sarah-Smith-Resume-7.pdf

Now compare the above resume file names to these:

• Sarah-Smith-Marketing-Coordinator.pdf (or .docx)
• Sarah-Smith-Marketing-Coordinator-Google.pdf

The second set of file names looks more put together and personalized. Many people make the mistake of including dates or numbers in their resume, and while this may not seem like a big deal, it might leave recruiters thinking that your so-called skill of “attention to detail” may not be as accurate as it sounds.

7. Use the Right File Type​

One of the most common misconceptions is that an ATS can’t read PDF files. While there’s nothing wrong with making your resume in a Word doc, applicant tracking systems have just as much difficulty reading a Word doc if you put your content in a header, table or column as it would a PDF.
It’s best practice to create multiple resume file types and submit whichever seems most prudent in your particular situation or whatever the employer specifically requests. For example, a PDF resume can be advantageous if you have extra formatting.
Be sure to convert your resume to a plain-text file as well. To do this, copy your resume into a plain text document without formatting and check the results. You’ll want to look for things like disorganized headings, scrambled words or missing details from the original resume.
Tailoring your resume to each position is crucial to creating a bot-proof job application. One-size-fits-all resumes are a thing of the past, and these days, the best applicants are taking keywords from the job description and contextualizing them on their resumes to get past the ATS.
Some services will give you a free ATS resume scan, so that’s always an option.

5 ATS-friendly resume templates​

To ensure your ATS resume template is guaranteed to pass the screening, you can choose a professionally designed template.
For example, our 20+ templates have been vetted by hiring managers for use in their applicant tracking systems, so you know you’re safe with any of the designs.

ATS resume template – Contemporary​

ATS resume template – Upgrade​

ATS resume template – Iris​

ATS resume template – Aster​

ATS resume template – Standard​

STAR Method Resume Draft​

STAR Method Resume Draft

Give Suggestions on Writing/Improving STAR Method Resume based on Notes

www.sgpt.app

Pros of using ChatGPT or OpenAI to create resume summaries or bullet points:

1. Time-saving: ChatGPT or OpenAI can generate resume summaries or bullet points in a matter of seconds, which saves time compared to manual creation.
2. Consistency: ChatGPT can ensure that the resume summaries or bullet points are consistent in language, tone, and formatting.
3. Customization: ChatGPT can generate summaries or bullet points matching specific job requirements, industries, or skills.

Cons of using ChatGPT or OpenAI to create resume summaries or bullet points:

1. Lack of creativity: Since an AI model generates the output, it may lack the creativity and uniqueness that a human could bring to the task.
2. Inconsistencies or errors: There may be inconsistencies or errors in the generated output, which may negatively impact the quality of the resume.
3. Limited understanding of context: ChatGPT may not fully understand the context of a specific job or industry, leading to inaccuracies in the generated summaries or bullet points.

Before you start crafting your resume’s summary section and killer bullet points, you must clearly understand your career goals and the type of job you’re targeting. This will help you determine what information to include in your resume and how to present it.

Identifying your Career Aspirations

Take time to reflect on what you want to achieve in your career and what kind of job you’re looking for. Ask yourself questions like:

What industry do I want to work in?
What kind of job role am I interested in?
What are my long-term career goals?
Once you clearly understand your career aspirations, it’ll be easier to tailor your resume to the job you’re applying for and make a solid first impression on potential employers.

Assessing Your Skills and Experiences

Once you know the type of job you’re targeting, look closely at your skills and experiences to see what’s relevant to the role.

What experiences and skills do you have that are relevant to the job you’re targeting?
What achievements have you accomplished in your past roles that show your abilities and potential?
What sets you apart from other candidates and makes you the best fit for the job?

How to Get The Most Out of Your ChatGPT Prompts​

• Be specific: Provide clear, detailed information about your responsibilities and achievements in each role.
• Use quantifiable data: Provide numbers, statistics, and percentages to demonstrate your impact in your previous roles.
• Use active verbs: Start each bullet point with an action verb to show your level of involvement and impact.
• Highlight achievements: Focus on specific accomplishments and their impact on your previous roles.
• Tailor each prompt: Create unique prompts for each role you have held to showcase your diverse skillset.
• Consider your audience: Consider the types of positions you are applying for and what the employer is looking for.
• Be concise: Keep your prompts and answers brief and to the point.
• Be honest: Do not exaggerate or fabricate information in your bullet points.
• Use industry-specific language: Use relevant language and terminology for your industry.
• Ask for feedback: Seek feedback from a trusted friend, mentor, or professional recruiter to ensure your bullet points are effective and compelling.

ChatGPT Prompts For Killer Bullet Points
In addition to a strong summary, it’s essential to have well-crafted bullet points in your resume that showcases your achievements and skills. ChatGPT can help you generate bullet points that accurately reflect your work experience and set you apart from the competition.

Example Resume Bullet Point ChatGPT Prompt
Create 5 bullet points highlighting my sales representative achievements, showcasing my ability to close deals and increase sales.

Example ChatGPT Bullet Point Suggestions
Closed $500,000 in sales in just 6 months, surpassing quota by 25%.

Developed and implemented a new sales strategy, resulting in a 15% increase in overall sales.

Successfully managed and nurtured a pipeline of 50+ high-value prospects, leading to 10 closed deals.

Built and maintained strong relationships with key clients, leading to repeat business and referrals.

Implemented a CRM system to streamline the sales process, resulting in a more efficient and organized workflow.

The Best ChatGPT Prompts To Help You Create Killer Bullet Points
Create bullet points for my most recent [insert job title] role that showcases my achievements and impact.

Generate bullet points highlighting my experience in [insert relevant job function/task].

Write bullet points demonstrating my ability to [insert relevant skill/achievement].

Create bullet points that emphasize my successes in [insert relevant project/initiative].

Generate bullet points that showcase my ability to [insert relevant soft skill, e.g., teamwork, communication, etc.].

Write bullet points that convey my experience in [insert relevant industry/field].

Create bullet points highlighting my experience managing [insert relevant task, e.g., budgets, teams, etc.].

Generate bullet points that emphasize my achievements in [insert relevant job/project].

Write bullet points that showcase my ability to [insert relevant technical skill, e.g., programming language, software, etc.].

Create bullet points highlighting my experience in [insert relevant job function/task] and how I’ve made a positive impact.

Using ChatGPT and these prompts, you can create bullet points that accurately reflect your work experience and set you apart from the competition. With a well-crafted resume, you can confidently showcase your skills and experiences to potential employers.

How to Get The Most Out of Your ChatGPT Prompts for Crazy Good Bullet Points
To get the most out of prompts when creating resume bullet points with ChatGPT, follow these tips:

Be specific: Provide clear, detailed information about your responsibilities and achievements in each role.
Use quantifiable data: Provide numbers, statistics, and percentages to demonstrate your impact in your previous roles.
Use active verbs: Start each bullet point with an action verb to show your level of involvement and impact.
Highlight achievements: Focus on specific accomplishments and their impact on your previous roles.
Tailor each prompt: Create unique prompts for each role you have held to showcase your diverse skillset.
Consider your audience: Consider the types of positions you are applying for and what the employer is looking for.
Be concise: Keep your prompts and answers brief and to the point.
Be honest: Do not exaggerate or fabricate information in your bullet points.
Use industry-specific language: Use relevant language and terminology for your industry.
Ask for feedback: Seek feedback from a trusted friend, mentor, or professional recruiter to ensure your bullet points are effective and compelling.

ChatGPT Prompts For a Winning Summary Section​

Your resume’s summary section is your chance to make a first impression on potential employers and showcase why you’re the best candidate for the job. It’s crucial to have a strong and well-crafted summary that highlights your skills, experiences, and career aspirations concisely and compellingly.

Enter ChatGPT, an advanced language generation technology that can help you create a winning summary for your resume. ChatGPT can generate and suggest customized content based on your career goals, skills, and experiences, ensuring that your summary is relevant and tailored to the job you’re applying for.

Below we’ll show you how to use ChatGPT to create a standout summary that accurately reflects your abilities and sets you apart from the competition. First, we’ll help you identify your career aspirations and the type of job you’re targeting. Then, we’ll assess your skills and experiences relevant to the job and guide you through the steps of using ChatGPT to craft a compelling summary. Get ready to take your resume to the next level!

Now that you clearly understand your career goals and relevant skills and experiences, it’s time to put that information to use. You can use ChatGPT to generate and suggest customized content for your resume’s summary section, ensuring that it accurately reflects your abilities and sets you apart from the competition.

Example Resume Summary ChatGPT Prompt​

Create a summary that showcases my skills and experiences relevant to a Marketing Manager role while emphasizing my passion for the industry.

Example ChatGPT Resume Summary​

A driven and creative Marketing Manager with over 5 years of experience in developing and executing successful marketing campaigns. A passionate marketer with a strong track record of increasing brand awareness and driving engagement through data-driven tactics. Adept at creating and managing budgets, building stakeholder relationships, and leading cross-functional teams. Skilled in digital marketing, market research, and campaign analysis. Looking to leverage my skills and experience to drive success in a dynamic Marketing Manager role.

The Best ChatGPT Prompts To Help You Create a Winning Summary Section​

1. Create a summary that showcases my skills and experiences relevant to a [insert job title] role.

2. Generate a summary highlighting my achievements in past [insert industry/field] roles.

3. Write a summary demonstrating my ability to [insert relevant skill/achievement].

4. Create a summary that conveys my passion for [insert industry/field] and my career aspirations.

5. Generate a summary that emphasizes my unique selling points and sets me apart from other candidates.

6. Write a summary that showcases my ability to [insert relevant soft skill, e.g., teamwork, communication, etc.].

7. Create a summary highlighting my experience in [insert relevant job function/task].

8. Generate a summary that emphasizes my achievements in [insert relevant job/project].

9. Write a summary that conveys my passion for [insert relevant cause/issue] and how I’ve made a difference in the past.

10. Create a summary that showcases my ability to [insert relevant technical skill, e.g., programming language, software, etc.].

Using ChatGPT and these prompts, you’ll be well on your way to creating a winning summary section for your resume that accurately reflects your abilities and sets you apart from the competition.

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How to Get The Most Out of Your ChatGPT Prompts for a Great Summary Section​

To get the most out of prompts when creating a summary with ChatGPT, follow these ten tips:

• Be specific: Provide clear, detailed information about your skills, experiences, and career goals.
• Be concise: Keep your prompts and answers brief and to the point.
• Highlight achievements: Focus on specific accomplishments and their impact on your previous roles.
• Use industry-specific language: Use relevant language and terminology for your industry.
• Use active verbs: Start each bullet point with an action verb to show your level of involvement and impact.
• Tailor each prompt: Create unique prompts for each role you have held to showcase your diverse skillset.
• Consider your audience: Consider the types of positions you are applying for and what the employer is looking for.
• Be honest: Do not exaggerate or fabricate information in your bullet points.
• Avoid cliches: Instead of using common phrases, think of unique ways to describe your experiences and achievements.
• Ask for feedback: Seek feedback from a trusted friend, mentor, or professional recruiter to ensure your summary is effective and compelling.
  
  
• Example Resume Summary ChatGPT Prompt
  Create a summary that showcases my skills and experiences relevant to a Marketing Manager role while emphasizing my passion for the industry.
  
  Example ChatGPT Resume Summary
  A driven and creative Marketing Manager with over 5 years of experience in developing and executing successful marketing campaigns. A passionate marketer with a strong track record of increasing brand awareness and driving engagement through data-driven tactics. Adept at creating and managing budgets, building stakeholder relationships, and leading cross-functional teams. Skilled in digital marketing, market research, and campaign analysis. Looking to leverage my skills and experience to drive success in a dynamic Marketing Manager role.
  
  The Best ChatGPT Prompts To Help You Create a Winning Summary Section
  Create a summary that showcases my skills and experiences relevant to a [insert job title] role.
  
  Generate a summary highlighting my achievements in past [insert industry/field] roles.
  
  Write a summary demonstrating my ability to [insert relevant skill/achievement].
  
  Create a summary that conveys my passion for [insert industry/field] and my career aspirations.
  
  Generate a summary that emphasizes my unique selling points and sets me apart from other candidates.
  
  Write a summary that showcases my ability to [insert relevant soft skill, e.g., teamwork, communication, etc.].
  
  Create a summary highlighting my experience in [insert relevant job function/task].
  
  Generate a summary that emphasizes my achievements in [insert relevant job/project].
  
  Write a summary that conveys my passion for [insert relevant cause/issue] and how I’ve made a difference in the past.
  
  Create a summary that showcases my ability to [insert relevant technical skill, e.g., programming language, software, etc.].
  
  Using ChatGPT and these prompts, you’ll be well on your way to creating a winning summary section for your resume that accurately reflects your abilities and sets you apart from the competition.
  
  How to Get The Most Out of Your ChatGPT Prompts for a Great Summary Section
  To get the most out of prompts when creating a summary with ChatGPT, follow these ten tips:
  
  Be specific: Provide clear, detailed information about your skills, experiences, and career goals.
  Be concise: Keep your prompts and answers brief and to the point.
  Highlight achievements: Focus on specific accomplishments and their impact on your previous roles.
  Use industry-specific language: Use relevant language and terminology for your industry.
  Use active verbs: Start each bullet point with an action verb to show your level of involvement and impact.
  Tailor each prompt: Create unique prompts for each role you have held to showcase your diverse skillset.
  Consider your audience: Consider the types of positions you are applying for and what the employer is looking for.
  Be honest: Do not exaggerate or fabricate information in your bullet points.
  Avoid cliches: Instead of using common phrases, think of unique ways to describe your experiences and achievements.
  Ask for feedback: Seek feedback from a trusted friend, mentor, or professional recruiter to ensure your summary is effective and compelling.
  chatgpt prompts for resume summary

 

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Most people that suggest using ChatGPT for resume writing use very simple prompts like “Create a resume for a head of recruiting at a tech company.”

This works, but it results in very generic answers that sound correct but aren’t really specific to your experience or your needs.

The better way to use ChatGPT is to have it improve your resume by understanding what makes a good resume and giving you suggestions on improving your own.

Take this example from prompt SGPT, which takes bullet point notes and turns into a “STAR” resume section:

I need help writing my resume!
Here's some notes about my previous position:
-Worked at an online software engineering bootcamp, called the "software engineering career track"
- I was a mentor for students in the bootcamp
- I met weekly with students to solve technical issues that they are facing and to help fix their mental models
- I also helped with non-technical issues, such as job search help and interview prep
- I generally gave advice on how to proceed in the industry
I want to write a resume based on the STAR method. First, explain the STAR method of resume writing so that I know you understand what it means.
Based on the STAR method of writing resumes, give me feedback on my notes. Go over the Situation, Task, Action and Results I included in my notes and explain in detail how I could improve them, such as by adding more detail. Label this section "Feedback on notes".
For each item that I could improve, give an example bullet point of what this item may look like once improved. Label this section "Example bullet points for your resume with suggestion changes".
Finally, write a draft of the bullet points that I could use my resume based on these notes to give me a starting point that I could add the improvements to later. When writing these, do not include the STAR method and instead just write bullet points that I could use in my resume. Label this section "First draft of your resume before suggestions":
The result is something like this:

STAR method:

The STAR method is a popular technique used to structure and write resumes. It stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Results. With this technique, you explain a situation you faced, the task you needed to accomplish, the actions you took to complete the task, and the results of your efforts.

Feedback on notes:

Situation: Your notes provide a good overview of the situation. However, it would be helpful to include more details about the online software engineering bootcamp and why it was important.

Task: Your notes mention that you were a mentor for students in the bootcamp. However, it would be helpful to specify what their goals were and what challenges they faced.

Action: Your notes mention that you helped solve technical issues and provided job search help. However, it would be helpful to provide specific examples of how you accomplished these tasks.

Results: Your notes mention that you generally gave advice on how to proceed in the industry. However, it would be helpful to provide specific examples of how your advice helped students achieve their goals.

Example bullet points for your resume with suggestion changes:

- Situation: Worked as a mentor at an online software engineering bootcamp that provided individuals with in-depth training on software engineering principles and practices.
- Task: Guided students through various programming challenges by meeting with them weekly to help them fix mental models and develop new techniques.
- Action: Assisted students with non-technical issues such as job search help and interview preparation by providing personalized feedback based on their unique needs.
- Results: Provided feedback that led students to secure employment at top tech companies such as Google and Amazon.

First draft of your resume before suggestions:

- Mentored students in an online software engineering bootcamp
- Met weekly with students to solve technical issues they faced
- Provided job search help and interview prep
- Gave advice on how to proceed in the industry

STAR Method Resume Draft

Give Suggestions on Writing/Improving STAR Method Resume based on Notes

www.sgpt.app

 

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Most people that suggest using ChatGPT for resume writing use very simple prompts like “Create a resume for a head of recruiting at a tech company.”

This works, but it results in very generic answers that sound correct but aren’t really specific to your experience or your needs.

The better way to use ChatGPT is to have it improve your resume by understanding what makes a good resume and giving you suggestions on improving your own.

Take this example from SGPT, which takes bullet point notes and turns into a “STAR” resume section:


Most people that suggest using ChatGPT for writing Cover Letter use very simple prompts, like "Write a cover letter for a software engineering instructor position."

This works, but it results in very generic answers that sound correct but aren’t really specific to your experience or the job you're applying for.

The better way is to input the actual job description along with your resume into ChatGPT, and have ChatGPT match qualifications from the job description with items from your resume:

Take a look at this example prompt :

Job Description:
RESPONSIBILITIES
In this role, you will:
Create a positive, professional and inclusive learning environment, by....
{rest of job description here... removed to make post shorter}
My Resume:
{my resume... removed to make post shorter}
Write a cover letter for the job in the job description by matching qualifications from my resume to the job description provided. Keep the cover letter very short, three paragraphs at most. Keep the language relatively casual:

With this setup, you should get a result from ChatGPT that is similar to this:

Dear Hiring Manager,
I am excited to apply for the role of Instructor at Simplilearn. With my experience leading engineering teams, developing software, and teaching coding skills, I believe that I have the skills necessary to create a positive and inclusive learning environment for students.
As an engineering team lead, I managed cross-functional work and created an onboarding program for new engineers that promoted social cohesion. As a coding bootcamp instructor, I provided technical mentorship and designed curriculum covering front-end and back-end frameworks. In addition, as a resident engineer at a blockchain company, I developed smart contracts using Solidity on Ethereum blockchain while providing technical mentorship to junior engineers.
I am confident that my ability to teach select lessons in accordance with learning objectives while employing strategies known to meet the needs of adult learners would make me an excellent fit for this role. Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards, [Your Name]

Once you have the cover letter written, give it a quick read to make sure everything is factually correct. Make any small changes you need, and on to the next one.

You can try this yourself by copy/pasting the prompt above into ChatGPT, or you can try the preset above at https://www.sgpt.app/prompt/Pdgd7Y and simply update the job description and resume sections as needed.

 

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Step 1 is chatgpt signup

Step 2: Ask ChatGPT what it needs​

If you’re starting your resume from scratch, you need to tell ChatGPT about yourself to get the ball rolling. This will be your first prompt.

Write a sentence or two describing who you are professionally, then ask ChatGPT to tell you what information it needs to start writing your resume.

ChatGPT prompt examples:

• “I am a recent graduate with a degree in computer science looking to start my career in software development. What information do you need to start creating my resume?”
• “I have been working in the marketing sector for the past 5 years and am now looking to transition into a digital marketing role. What information do you need to start creating my resume?”
• “I am a sales executive planning to step up to a managerial role. What information do you need to start creating my resume?”

Once you do this, ChatGPT will provide you with a list of things it needs. While this list will vary based on your situation, there are some common elements that are typically required.

These include your contact information, skills, work history, educational background, any certifications or special training you have, and your career objectives or goals.

Let’s go through some of the main sections of a typical resume and see how ChatGPT can help you write them.

NOTE: You might find it easier to write your ChatGPT resume using one of Jobscan’s free resume templates or resume builder, especially if you’re creating a brand new resume.

Step 3: Use ChatGPT to write your resume headline​

Hiring managers only spend seconds scanning your resume. That’s why having a resume headline is important.

A resume headline is a one-line statement that sits right under your contact information. It should summarize your key strengths so the hiring manager can tell at a glance who you are.

ChatGPT Prompt for a resume headline:
“Create a resume headline for me. I have [number of years] years of experience in [your field/industry], specializing in [key skills or areas of expertise]. I’m seeking a role in [specific job or industry you’re targeting].”
For example:
“Create a resume headline for me. I have 5 years of experience in digital marketing, specializing in SEO, content marketing, and social media strategy. I’m seeking a role in a forward-thinking digital marketing agency.”
Resume headline generated by ChatGPT:
“Digital Marketing Expert with 5 Years in SEO & Social Media Seeking Innovative Agency Role”

Step 4: Use ChatGPT to write your resume summary​

A resume summary provides a slightly more detailed overview of your skills, experience, and achievements. It appears under your headline.

Together, your headline and summary help make a strong first impression and encourage the hiring manager to read further.

ChatGPT prompt for a professional summary:
“Create a resume summary for me. I have [number of years] years of experience in [your field/industry]. My key skills include [list key skills or areas of expertise]. I have achieved [mention notable achievements or milestones]. I’m looking for opportunities in [specific job or industry you’re targeting] where I can [mention your goals or what you hope to accomplish in the new role].”
For example:
“Create a resume summary for me. I have 8 years of experience in financial analysis and management. My key skills include data analysis, budget forecasting, and financial reporting. I have achieved significant cost savings for my current company through strategic budget management. I’m looking for opportunities in senior financial management where I can utilize my expertise to drive financial efficiency and growth.”
Resume summary generated by ChatGPT:
“Seasoned Financial Analyst and Manager with 8 years of experience in data-driven decision making and strategic financial planning. Proficient in data analysis, budget forecasting, and financial reporting, with a proven track record of achieving cost savings through effective budget management. Seeking a senior financial management role to leverage my expertise in driving financial efficiency and organizational growth.”

Step 5: Use ChatGPT to write your measurable work achievements​

Your work experience section is the most important part of your resume. This is where you list your past jobs. You should list your jobs in reverse-chronological order, from most recent to least recent.

In this section, it’s crucial to highlight your measurable achievements. Measurable achievements are specific accomplishments in your career that can be described using numbers and metrics. For example, “increased online sales by 30%.”

Your resume shouldn’t just tell potential employers what you did, but how well you did it.

ChatGPT prompt for work experience and achievements
“Help me write the work experience section for my resume. Create a bullet point for each accomplishment. Here are my first job details:

• Job Title: Marketing Manager
• Company: ABC Corp
• Duration: January 2018 – Present
• Key Responsibilities: Lead a team of 5 marketing specialists, oversee all digital marketing campaigns, manage the marketing budget, and coordinate with sales teams to align marketing strategies with sales objectives.
• Significant Achievements: Increased online sales by 30% through targeted social media campaigns and SEO optimization.”

Work experience section generated by ChatGPT:
Marketing Manager
ABC Corp, January 2018 – Present

• Spearheaded a team of 5 marketing specialists, driving the development and execution of comprehensive digital marketing campaigns.
• Managed and allocated the marketing budget efficiently, ensuring optimal use of resources for maximum impact.
• Oversaw all aspects of digital marketing, including content strategy, email marketing, social media, and SEO, leading to a cohesive and effective online presence.
• Collaborated closely with sales teams to align marketing strategies with sales objectives, ensuring a unified approach to market penetration and customer outreach.
• Achieved a significant milestone by increasing online sales by 30% through targeted social media campaigns and SEO optimization, demonstrating a strong ability to connect with and engage the target audience effectively.
• Implemented innovative marketing techniques and analytics tools to track campaign performance, enabling data-driven decisions that continually improved marketing efforts.

To create bullet points quickly, use Jobscan’s AI-powered resume bullet points generator.

How to use ChatGPT to tailor your resume​

Congratulations! You’ve used ChatGPT to create your resume. But you’re not done yet. Now it’s time to tailor your resume for each job you apply for.

Why? Because most companies today use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to help them hire people. This is computer software that collects and organizes the resumes it receives into a database.

Hiring managers find suitable job candidates by typing keywords into the ATS database search bar. These keywords are skills or job titles that are relevant to the role they want to fill.

If your resume doesn’t contain these keywords it won’t be found.

You can find the keywords to add to your resume in the job description. That’s why you should always paste the job description into ChatGPT as part of your resume prompt for tailoring your resume.

ChatGPT prompt for tailoring a resume for a specific job:
“Help me tailor my resume for a specific job application. I will provide the job description and my resume. Please adjust my resume to highlight the most relevant experiences and skills that align with the job requirements. Also, suggest any changes or additions that would make my resume more appealing for this position.”

How to use ChatGPT to update your resume​

If you already have an existing resume but want to fine tune or update it, this prompt can create a resume that reflects your continued growth and readiness for new opportunities:

ChatGPT prompt to update your resume:
“Hello ChatGPT, I recently came across a job opportunity that aligns perfectly with my career goals, and I would like to update my resume.
Here is my current resume [insert resume].
Here is the description of the job I’m applying for [insert job description].
In terms of updates, I have recently completed a project management certification course that I would like to add to the certifications section. Additionally, I have taken on new responsibilities at my current job over the past year, which include leading a team of five in developing a new feature set for our flagship product and spearheading a successful collaboration with the marketing team to enhance user engagement. I would like these details to be incorporated into the work experience section under my current role.
Furthermore, I have acquired new skills in data analytics and machine learning that I believe would be beneficial to highlight in the skills section of my resume.”

How to use ChatGPT to create a career change resume​

If you want to change careers, this prompt will tailor your resume so it emphasizes your transferable skills and knowledge:

ChatGPT prompt for creating a career change resume:
“Hello ChatGPT, I am gearing up to make a career shift from retail management to a position in the digital marketing sphere. I am keen on developing my resume so it underscores the transferable skills and knowledge that equip me to excel in this new field.
Here is my current resume [insert resume].
Here is the description of the job I’m applying for [insert job description].
I am eager to channel the extensive experience I’ve garnered in retail management, where I honed my abilities in customer relations, team leadership, and strategic planning, into a flourishing career in digital marketing. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Business Administration from XYZ University, where I took relevant courses such as Marketing Principles, Consumer Behavior, and Digital Media Strategies, which I anticipate will be pertinent in my forthcoming role.
On the professional front, I have a rich history in retail, with notable stints as a Retail Manager at ABC Retailers and an Assistant Store Manager at DEF Retailers. During these roles, I initiated and led several successful projects and campaigns that significantly boosted both revenue and customer engagement. I am now eager to leverage this background to make a meaningful impact in the digital marketing realm.”

The benefits of using ChatGPT to write your resume​

There are two major reasons why you should consider using ChatGPT to write your resume.

1) It will save you time. Crafting a resume can be a time-consuming process, especially when you are trying to tailor it to a specific job description. ChatGPT can help streamline this process, saving you valuable time.

2) It will save you money. ChatGPT is free. So you’ll be able to craft a high-quality resume without spending a dime.

The limitations of using ChatGPT to write your resume​

ChatGPT can be a valuable tool in crafting a resume, but there are also some drawbacks to consider.

1) ChatGPT doesn’t really know you. It might not be able to highlight your unique strengths and qualities as effectively as you can.

2) ChatGPT often uses generic language. There is a risk that your resume will sound like everybody else’s resume.

3) ChatGPT is often inaccurate. It “hallucinates” and misunderstands prompts all the time.

4) ChatGPT doesn’t provide resume templates. It lacks the specialized formatting options that dedicated resume-building software provides. This makes it more challenging to create a visually appealing and professional-looking resume.

5) ChatGPT doesn’t score your resume. It can’t analyze how well your resume matches the job description. This feature is commonly found in specialized resume optimization tools.

6) ChatGPT can’t identify important keywords. It’s unable to analyze job descriptions to identify crucial keywords that employers might be searching the ATS for.

7) ChatGPT cannot tell you if your resume is ATS-compatible. This means that even if your resume is well-written, it might not be structured or formatted in a way that is ATS-friendly.

8) ChatGPT might prevent you from getting your dream job. In one survey, 40 percent of respondents said the interviewer was aware they used ChatGPT to write their resume – and 35 percent said they didn’t get the job because of it.

Despite these limitations, ChatGPT can still serve as a useful starting point, especially if you’re feeling stuck or unsure about how to begin crafting your resume.

Jobscan creates a better resume than ChatGPT​

While ChatGPT can help you create a resume, it was not specifically designed for that purpose. That’s why we recommend using Jobscan instead.

Jobscan’s resume scanner uses AI-technology to help job seekers create highly-optimized, ATS-friendly resumes.

To use the scanner, just…
Step 1: Paste your resume into the scanner.
Step 2: Paste the description of the job you’re applying for into the scanner.
Step 3: Click “scan”.
You’ll then receive a score that tells you how closely your resume matches the job description.

You’ll also see exactly which keywords you should add to your resume to increase your score. The higher your score, the more likely you are to get a job interview.

Here’s an example of Jobscan’s resume score and keyword suggestions:

Increase your score by adding the keywords “answering phones,” “electronic health records,” and “maintain confidentiality” to your resume.

To make resume optimization even faster and more effective, try our Power Edit feature (available to Jobscan’s Premium users).

For example, Power Edit shows you how to seamlessly integrate missing keywords into your resume. All you have to do is click on a keyword and you’ll see multiple phrase suggestions you can choose from:

Apart from resume optimization, Jobscan also offers tools to help you generate cover letters using AI, optimize your LinkedIn profile, and track your job applications.

Try Jobscan for free by pasting in your resume and job description below. (Premium users will be taken directly to the Power Edit feature):

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Make your resume stand out and get noticed
Upload your resume to see what’s missing and get a free match rate.

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View full results and optimize your resume

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How to use ChatGPT to write your cover letter​

Do you hate writing cover letters? ChatGPT can do it for you!

Just provide ChatGPT with a prompt that includes your background information, the job you’re applying for, and key points you wish to address.

ChatGPT prompt for writing a cover letter:
“Write a cover letter for a marketing manager position. I have 5 years of experience in digital marketing, with a focus on social media strategy and content creation. I’m particularly skilled in driving engagement and increasing online presence.”
Unfortunately, ChatGPT cover letters tend to be generic and robotic. If you want to use an AI tool to create professional cover letters, try Jobscan’s cover letter generator.

This tool uses your personal resume and a real job listing to create a 100% original cover letter that is ATS-friendly and tailored to the job you’re applying for.

Read more: 6 Common Mistakes Job Seekers Make When Using ChatGPT

Read more: Should You Use ChatGPT to Generate Your Cover Letter?

Best practices for using ChatGPT for your resume​

Creating a resume and cover letter with ChatGPT involves more than just giving it your relevant information. It’s about strategically guiding the tool to tailor your narrative, ensuring that your unique skills and experiences are highlighted.

Here are some best practices to ensure you get the most out of ChatGPT:

• Be specific with your prompts: Provide clear and detailed information in your prompts to ChatGPT. The more specific your prompts, the more tailored and relevant the output will be.
• Personalize the output: While ChatGPT can generate a solid foundation for your resume, it’s important to add a personal touch. Customize the content to reflect your voice and unique experiences.
• Verify and edit the information: Always review and edit the information provided by ChatGPT. Check for grammar errors and inaccuracies.
• Highlight key achievements: Encourage ChatGPT to focus on quantifiable achievements in your career. Use prompts that lead to results-oriented statements, showcasing your impact in previous roles.
• Keep it concise: Resumes should be concise and to the point. Guide ChatGPT to produce succinct, impactful content, avoiding overly verbose or generic statements.

 

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Upload your resume with the Job Description to our Free ATS Friendly Checker and instantly find out if your resume is ATS-Friendly.

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1. ChatGPT prompts for resume creation​

Prompt 1​

This is one of the best ChatGPT prompts for resume creation:

Based on my background in [Industry/Field], draft a resume that highlights my [Number] years of experience, education from [University/College], and skills in [List of Skills]. Focus on illustrating achievements in [Specific Projects or Roles] and incorporate industry-relevant keywords for ATS optimization.

Prompt 2​

This ChatGPT prompt for resume crafting is designed to highlight your journey:

I’ve worked in [Industry/Field] for [Number] years, specializing in [Specialization]. Using this information, create a resume that showcases my expertise, contributions to [Specific Projects or Initiatives], and my growth from [Entry-Level Position] to [Current Position]. Emphasize skills such as [List of Skills] and include any relevant certifications.

Prompt 3​

Utilize this ChatGPT prompt for resume writing to ensure comprehensive coverage:

Generate a resume for someone with a background in [Field/Industry], detailing [Number] years of experience and education from [University/College], majoring in [Major]. Highlight leadership roles in [Clubs/Organizations], involvement in [Projects], and proficiency in [Skills]. Tailor the resume to appeal to employers looking for [Job Title], with a focus on ATS-friendly formatting and content.

What’s ATS?
The full form of ATS is “Applicant Tracking System”. It refers to a software application that enables the electronic handling of recruitment and hiring needs, streamlining the process by sorting and ranking candidates based on resume keywords and other criteria.
Using these ChatGPT resume prompts, you can create quick and editable resume templates for yourself. If you indeed want a quicker way to build your resume, you can always use AI resume builders to make this process easier.

2. ChatGPT prompts for resume editing​

Prompt 4​

Leverage this ChatGPT prompt for resume editing for a polished finish:

Review and edit my current resume, focusing on enhancing the clarity and impact of my experience in [Industry/Field]. Strengthen the language to better showcase my achievements, particularly in [Specific Roles or Projects], and ensure the layout is ATS-friendly. Adjust the skills section better to reflect the requirements of [Job Title].

Prompt 5​

This is among the best resume prompts for ChatGPT:

Refine my resume by revising the summary to more accurately reflect my [Number] years of experience in [Industry/Field] and my key accomplishments, especially in [Key Projects]. Improve the readability and keyword alignment for [Job Title], ensuring that my skills and experiences are presented in a compelling way.

Prompt 6​

This prompt for ChatGPT resume editing is crucial for impact:

Take my existing resume and transform it into a more dynamic and engaging document. Pay special attention to rewording the experience section to highlight my contributions to [Company/Project] and my skill in [Skill]. Ensure the language is active and the achievements are quantified, aligning with the expectations for [Job Title].

Using ChatGPT prompts for resume editing is a free and easy way to edit your resume. But for a more professional resume, you can always opt for top resume editing services.

Also read: How to Edit and Expand Your Resume into a CV

3. ChatGPT prompts for resume refinement​

Prompt 7​

Use this AI prompt for resume refinement to make your experiences stand out:

Enhance my resume by integrating powerful action verbs and quantifiable outcomes, especially relating to my time at [Company] where I led [Project/Initiative]. Emphasize skills that are crucial for [Job Title], and adjust the layout for better readability and ATS compatibility.

Prompt 8​

This is an essential ChatGPT prompt for resume writing, tailored for precision:

Refine my resume’s skills and achievements sections to more effectively target [Job Title]. Include specific examples of how I successfully applied [Skill] in a professional setting, leading to [Result]. Ensure the language used matches the industry lingo for [Industry/Field].

Prompt 9​

This prompt for ChatGPT for resume refinement is key for targeting:

Optimize my resume for [Job Title] by highlighting my most relevant experiences and skills. Focus on my role in [Project/Event] and my proficiency in [Skill], making sure to present this information in a way that’s engaging and ATS-friendly. Adjust the formatting to emphasize these sections.

Also read: 5 Powerful Personal Statement Examples (Template Included)

4. Industry-specific ChatGPT prompts​

Prompt 10​

This ChatGPT prompt for resume building is perfect for industry veterans:

Create a resume tailored for the [Industry/Field], emphasizing my expertise in [Area of Expertise] and experience with [Technology/Methodology]. Highlight my achievements in [Project/Role] and how they’ve contributed to business outcomes. Use industry-specific terminology and ensure the format is suitable for ATS systems.

Prompt 11​

This is a prime example of industry-specific AI prompts for resume crafting:

Draft a resume focused on [Industry/Field], detailing my journey from [Entry-Level Position] to [Senior Position]. Highlight specific technical skills, such as [Skill], and major projects, like [Project], that demonstrate my contributions to the field. Format the resume to appeal to key industry players and ATS.

Prompt 12​

Utilize this ChatGPT prompt for resume writing to underscore industry expertise:

For a professional in [Industry/Field], generate a resume that showcases a strong background in [Area], including projects like [Project] and skills such as [Skill]. Emphasize any awards or recognitions received and ensure the document is polished, professional, and ATS-optimized.

You can also use ChatGPT prompts for a resume and cover letter to write a cover letter to go with your resume while applying for a job. A cover letter stating why you are interested in the position and why you might be a good candidate for the role can increase your chances of being considered for it.

Also read: Top 10 eBook Creator Tools in 2024: Free & Paid

5. ChatGPT prompts for resume proofreading​

Prompt 13​

This ChatGPT prompt for resume proofreading is essential for a flawless presentation.

Proofread my resume for mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and consistency. Focus on improving the flow and readability, ensuring that the language is appropriate for [Job Title] applications within [Industry/Field]. Verify that the format is ATS-friendly and that all information is accurately presented.

Prompt 14​

This resume prompt for ChatGPT ensures precision and professionalism:

Conduct a thorough review of my resume, identifying and correcting any typos or formatting inconsistencies. Enhance the overall structure to better suit applications for [Job Title], paying special attention to the alignment of the skills and experiences sections with industry standards.

Prompt 15​

This ChatGPT prompt for resume proofreading is the final step to perfection:

Examine my resume for clarity, coherence, and conciseness, with an eye toward applications in [Industry/Field]. Ensure that each section, from the summary to the education, is well-written and free of errors, and that the document meets the criteria for ATS systems and appeals to potential employers.

You can also get help from the top online proofreading services available, to ensure that your resume is crisp and perfect.

By utilizing these ChatGPT prompts for resume creation, editing, refinement, and proofreading, job seekers can craft various types of resumes easily. These resumes will not only pass ATS filters but also captivate the attention of hiring managers.

The goal of your resume is to showcase your skills, experiences, and achievements in a manner that is both compelling and relevant to your desired job title. As experts in resume editing and proofreading services, PaperTrue helps refine your resume to perfection and makes it stand out in today’s competitive job market!

 

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sample:
For brevity, I’m only including the feedback portions. Here was the first prompt:

“I want you to pretend to be me for the following conversation, I want to see how you would respond to a recruiter on LinkedIn trying to offer me a job.”

“Sure, I'll do my best to respond as you would. Can you give me some more details about the job offer and what you're looking for in your response?”

“I will send you the same message I received and you react as you think I should”

“Great, please share the message and I'll respond as you would.”

[Here I pasted the initial conversation from the recruiter]

“Dear (actual recruiter’s name),

Thank you for reaching out to me about the (actual title) position. I appreciate you thinking of me and sharing the details of the role.

I have experience working with (blah), and I am knowledgeable in (blah), (blah), (blah), and (blah). In addition, I am proficient in (blah).

I am definitely interested in learning more about this opportunity and would be happy to schedule a time to connect. Please let me know what times work for you, and I'll make sure to schedule the call in my calendar.

Thank you again for considering me for this position, and I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Best regards,

[Your Name]”

“Interesting, you accepted the invitation immediately. I had a few concerns. Here is my replyactual reply)”

“Great, that's a good set of questions to ask before committing to a call or further discussion. Here's how I would respond as youGPT using a similarly worded message as the first but including all of my concerns)”

“This was their responseactual recruiter response with additional information)”

“Based on the information provided in your previous message, it seems like this could be a promising opportunity. Here's how I would respond as youanother GPT reply acknowledging some unanswered concerns but accepting a call to discuss further)”

“This was my response, how do you think I did? (Actual response from me)”

“Overall, your response seems clear and concise, and you make a good point regarding the importance of knowing the company and salary range before committing to further discussions. Here's my feedback on your response as youanother GPT reply)”

“This was their response, How do you think this interaction is going?(actual reply)”

“Based on the conversation so far, it seems like (recruiter’s name) is trying to gauge your interest in the role and determine if you are a good fit for the position. However, it's understandable that you have certain requirements and questions that need to be addressed before moving forward with the process.

In response to (recruiter)'s latest message, you could say something likeanother GPT reply)”

“Thank you for the feedback, I was hired in June and I was wondering if you would have had any different points I should have made”

“Congratulations on your new job! I'm glad to hear that the interaction was helpful.

In terms of points that could have been made differently, it's hard to say without knowing more about the specific circumstances. However, one thing that could be helpful to consider is being more direct and assertive in your communication. While it's important to be respectful, it's also important to make sure your needs and expectations are being met. In this case, it might have been more effective to ask for the company name and salary range upfront, rather than waiting for (recruiter) to bring it up in a later message. Additionally, you could consider providing more specific information about your own experience and qualifications, and why you think you would be a good fit for the role.

Overall, it seems like you did a good job of being professional and asking important questions to determine whether this job opportunity was right for you.”

“If you notice, I asked her on my first response back. I was sure this was a scammer”

“Ah, my apologies, I missed that detail. In that case, your response was appropriate and addressed your concerns about the legitimacy of the opportunity. Good job!”

 

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Subz