How to Advance Your Career Using AI
AI is quickly becoming a major influence in our daily lives, and whether we like it or not, it’s going to reshape our future and how we work. At Lensa, we’ve been experimenting with different AI and machine-learning tools to meet the increasing demand for career growth. Now, we want to share the insights and lessons we’ve gathered along the way to help you tap into the potential of AI for your own career.
How AI is Impacting Job Search Engine Algorithms
AI is not new.
Job search engines have come a long way from simple keyword-based searches. In the past, searching for jobs online was often a frustrating experience, with irrelevant results cluttering the search pages.
Modern job search engines rely on AI-powered algorithms that match job descriptions with candidate profiles using natural language processing (NLP), machine learning, and data analytics.
NLP helps the algorithms understand the context and synonyms in job postings and resumes, not just exact keywords. For example, searching for a "marketing manager" can also surface related roles such as a "brand manager."
Machine learning analyzes how you engage with the platform, such as which jobs you click on and apply to. The collected data is used to improve personalization.
Data analytics processes vast amounts of information to identify trends, predict in-demand roles, and rank job postings, highlighting the best matches for you.
How to Leverage AI for Your Job Search
Although nearly three decades have passed since the first AI speech recognition tools were introduced, artificial intelligence is still in its early stages. While AI alone won’t guarantee a job, it can help job seekers develop better job search strategies. College students are already using AI to transform traditional education. Similarly, job seekers can use AI to gain a competitive edge in three key areas:
Resume writers: Recruiters now heavily rely on Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to streamline the hiring process. These systems automatically sort, scan, and rank resumes based on specific keywords, skills, and qualifications that match the job description. AI tools can analyze job descriptions and suggest keywords and phrases to make your resume more ATS-friendly.
Cover letter creation: AI can help create personalized cover letters tailored to specific jobs. It suggests keywords that align with ATS requirements, increasing your chances of being noticed.
Interview simulation: Generating potential questions in real-life scenarios based on the job description. At Lensa, for example, we provide a written interview simulation with five questions based on a selected job description and its expectations from candidates. Job seekers receive a score based on their answers, giving them insight into how well they might perform in that specific job. Additionally, AI tools can help you understand a company’s values, which you can then use to align your responses and make a stronger connection during interviews or networking events.
Need Help With Your Job Search?
Enroll in our online course, Find a Job Fast: The Job Search Accelerator For Career Professionals
Using AI as a Research Tool
AI can also gather detailed insights about potential employers, industry trends, and competitive landscapes from job search engines like Indeed, Glassdoor, ZipRecruiter, or Lensa. As a job seeker, you can use this power to understand companies better and prepare for your job search.
Company research: AI tools can provide a wealth of information about a company’s history, culture, and recent developments. This helps you tailor your application and interview responses to match the company’s values and needs.
Competitor analysis: Understanding a company’s competitors allows you to position yourself as someone who knows the industry landscape. You can show that you have insights into where the company stands and how you can contribute to its success.
Salary and negotiation guidance: AI can analyze salary data across various industries and regions, giving you a solid foundation for negotiating your salary. It can also suggest strategies to help you approach these discussions with confidence.
This information can help you develop general strategies to better prepare for a job search and identify the skills and attributes recruiters value most for specific positions.
Save Time and Increase Productivity with AI
AI tools can analyze your skills and suggest jobs that match your profile. However, it's important to remember that AI lacks emotional intelligence. Many people find it frustrating when their resumes are ignored or rejected for months. While AI can guide you, your success ultimately depends on how well you use these tools to advance your career.
In short, AI offers exciting opportunities for job seekers to enhance their careers, much like the early days of the Internet and social media. It's worth experimenting with AI tools to discover new ways to refine your skills, clarify your career goals, and stand out in the job market. The power of AI is in your hands—use it wisely to take your career to new heights.
Additional Readings:
How To Answer The Interview Question: What Are You Passionate About?
How To Future-Proof Your Career With Upskilling and Microcredentialing
Leveraging The STAR Method To Keep Interview Answers Short But Powerful
Meet The Writer!
Robert Kormoczi: Robert is the Head of Marketing Communications at Lensa, an AI-powered career platform. He has extensive experience driving growth for several 8-figure B2B SaaS startups during their Series A and B stages.
