I’m a Tech refugee, having worked in the industry for almost 10 years and more recently, recruiting for early and late-stage growth companies for the past 18 years. This is the equivalent of 55 human business years, give or take. Or so it seems.

Innovation, rapid change, and eccentric billionaires are common in this industry. The advent of AI-powered Generative Pre-trained Transformers (the “GPT” in ChatGPT) should not necessarily shock or surprise in its ability to instruct the layperson on how to code an e-commerce website, suggest the best 10th-anniversary gift for your 3rd spouse who has everything, or determine if people who like large backsides are capable of lying (they are, apparently). This is an amazing and powerful tool.

But in the wrong hands, this same tool can do a lot of damage. The proclivity of candidates and professionals who use this tool for the purpose of crafting resumes, cover letters, and business correspondence is concerning. If you are in this camp, be wary. ChatGPTcan generate some suspect content, in addition to being used as a job-search-ending, self-inflicted WMD. To wit:

I’m an innovative and results-driven Technology Recruiter with a passion for connecting exceptional tech talent with industry-leading organizations. While leveraging deep industry knowledge and a vast network, I specialize in identifying and attracting top-notch professionals across various technology domains. With a strategic mindset and a pulse on emerging trends, I excel at sourcing and engaging highly sought-after candidates. In addition, I possess exceptional communication skills and a talent for building meaningful relationships. I thrive in fast-paced environments where precision and adaptability are key. Whether it’s filling critical technical roles or driving diversity initiatives, I am dedicated to delivering exceptional results and exceeding client expectations. Let me be your strategic partner in acquiring the best technology talent and propelling your organization to new heights!

If your resume or cover letter reads anything like the above, you are trying too hard. Remember, this engine is based on and distilled from the most-referenced and used content on the Interwebs, which is not necessarily a good thing. Exhibit A, OpenAI ChatGPT disclaimer:

May occasionally produce harmful instructions or biased content.

Here’s a pro tip: if you insist on using ChatGPT, do so sparingly and only as a foundation and framework for expressing your authentic self, tone, and personal brand and message. Use this tool to generate an outline to build on and craft your message according to your unique voice and experience. If you are inclined to use most or all of what ChatGPT generates verbatim, you are doing so at your own peril and likely hurting yourself. Or at least inspiring a backroom snicker.

As a recruiter and former hiring manager who has read thousands of resumes and profiles, I’ve seen many a well-used cliché or three. And besides lying, spelling and grammatical errors, or the infamous Comic Sans (or equivalent) typeface, perhaps the most egregious and eye-rolling violation you can commit on your resume is overpowering the reader with Eau du Cliché.

You’re better than this. And your recruiter, hiring manager, and reader deserves better too. So I’ll leave you with this cautionary tale of what not to do, courtesy of ChatGPT:

In conclusion, as the saying goes, “Life is what you make of it.” While cliché, this age-old adage holds a timeless truth. Embrace every moment, seize the opportunities that come your way, and never be afraid to chase your dreams. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. So, go out there and make your mark on the world. Carpe diem!

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