Chatbot Smarts: Use AI to Strengthen Your Resume Without Giving It Away

Learn to ask the right questions and keep your information safe

AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, and others can be great tools for job seekers, especially when you're trying to figure out how to tailor your resume for a specific job. But using them wisely is key. These tools are best used for understanding, not writing your materials. And you should always be careful about what personal information you share. 

Here’s how to use a chatbot to help you improve your resume without handing over your identity or asking it to do the work for you: 

Start with This Prompt: 

• “Here’s a job description. What top 15 keywords or skills are most important for this role?” 

This helps you identify what the employer is really looking for. You can then go back to your resume and ask yourself: Do I have experience with these skills? Have I used these words to describe my work? 

Use Follow-Up Prompts to Keep the Conversation Going 

Ask more questions to deepen your understanding or direct the conversation where you need it. Some examples could be: 

• “Can you explain what [insert keyword] means in this context?” 
• “What kinds of experiences or tasks would show that someone has [insert skill]?” 
• “How could I describe my experience with [insert skill] in a way that matches this job?” 
• “What’s the difference between [skill A] and [skill B] in job descriptions?” 
• “What are some common mistakes people make when trying to show they have [insert skill]?” 

These questions help you build your understanding and improve your materials yourself. You’re not asking the chatbot to write your resume - you’re using it like a tutor or coach. 

Protect Your Privacy While You Work 

Before you paste anything into a chatbot, remember: 

• Remove your name, phone number, email, and address. 
• Don’t share your full resume. Instead, copy just the parts you want help with, like a bullet point or skill section. 
• Turn off chat history or data sharing in the chatbot’s settings if possible. 

Using AI chatbots this way can help you become a more confident, informed job seeker. You’ll learn how to speak the language of employers, tailor your materials for ATS systems, and protect your personal info - all at the same time.