how to use chatgpt to make a cover letter

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Using ChatGPT to write resumes and cover letters

Job hunting can feel like a job of its own, which is why some are using ChatGPT to write resumes and cover letters. Learn how AI can make the process of creating these documents easier as well as its limitations.

ChatGPT has become a popular choice for all kinds of content creation . Here’s what you need to know about using ChatGPT for your resume or cover letter.

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Should I use AI in my job search?

The process of searching for a new job is rarely easy. Not only are you constantly checking job boards to find positions that both interest you and fit your skillset, but you’re also updating your resume and cover letter with every new application and editing these documents to suit each potential employer.

Using AI like ChatGPT for your job search can help you if you’re truly stumped for how to express your thoughts. Of course, it isn’t foolproof, either. Because this technology is so new, its output won’t be entirely accurate, and is no substitution for putting in the work yourself. The AI does the best it can with the information it’s given, which means it’s up to the job seeker to be both specific and accurate when inputting prompts, and to make any necessary adjustments to achieve a specific result.

If you plan to use ChatGPT for resume writing or crafting a cover letter, make sure you have a solid understanding of how to write both documents. After all, they’re a potential employer’s first impression of you; if you’re not well-represented because you relied on AI instead of your own skills, you’re not likely to get the job. ChatGPT can be useful for helping you come up with new ways to talk about your relevant skills and experience, but your personal touch is what will really make your resume and cover letter stand out.

Tips for writing a resume and cover letter

Whether you’re editing existing documents or starting from scratch, here are some tips to make sure that your resume and cover letter can help you make a good first impression.

• Use simple, professional formatting. Use a template to ensure that you’re delivering something that makes you look your best and is easy to read.
• Less is more. A busy resume can feel overwhelming for a recruiter. Show results where you can and leave off any unnecessary details.
• Proofread. Even if you’re using ChatGPT to help you with your job search, you’ll still need to look over the results to not only make sure that the content is accurate, but that it’s grammatically correct and sounds like you.
• Insert yourself. Make sure that your resume and cover letter are representative of you and not a chatbot. Your own personality should shine through, even if you’ve used AI to help you put things together.

At the end of the day, recruiters want to learn about you and whether you’re a good fit for a job. The best way for you share that information with them is with a well-written cover letter and a resume that’s easy to read .

What are the drawbacks of using ChatGPT to write a resume or cover letter?

Leveraging AI like ChatGPT to write your resume or cover letter does have a few pitfalls:

• This AI is very new technology and is certainly not foolproof. It’s constantly being tested and adjusted due to its newness.
• It may accidentally generate inaccurate statements due to its limited knowledge of the world after 2021.
• If you’re not proofreading carefully, you may gloss over some major errors. ChatGPT may generate content that is biased or harmful and it’s on you to catch those statements and not use them in your resume or cover letter. The AI may also repeat information between sections of a generated resume.
• The AI works with the information it’s given. The quality of the output depends entirely on the quality of the input.
• If you’re not specific enough when entering your prompts, you will get vague, generalized output. Similarly, if your prompt is poorly formatted, the AI may not understand what you’re asking for.
• ChatGPT may embellish some of your accomplishments. While it may be tempting to leave these in place, it’s never a good idea to lie about what you have and have not done.

This AI is not a replacement for doing the actual work yourself, but it can be a useful tool during the process of looking for a new job. Only you can truly know what you’ve achieved through your work and life experiences, and you’re the one who is best suited to crafting any type of resume or cover letter.

Entering resume and cover letter prompts into ChatGPT

The goal of using ChatGPT to write your resume or cover letter is to lessen the stress of creating these documents. But that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. You still must give the AI very clear instructions about what you want it to generate.

Prompts for using AI to write a resume

You can use AI to review an existing resume and provide feedback or tailor your resume to a specific posting. Make sure you ask very clear questions about what you’re looking for, as well as providing very clear guidance to the AI about what its role is. In both scenarios you’ll need to include your resume in its entirety, but if you’re looking for tailored edits, you should also include the job posting.

Prompts for these scenarios might look like:

• I am going to provide my resume and want you to act as a reviewer and provide feedback on it. How can I make it more readable? Are there any action verbs I should use? Am I using too many buzzwords?
• I will provide you with a job description for a position I am applying for. Understand the key points and requirements for this role and summarize them. Then review my resume and provide feedback on how to tailor it for this job.

These might seem overly specific but if you’re not specific enough, you won’t get the response you’re looking for.

Prompts for using AI to write a cover letter

When using ChatGPT to work on your cover letter for a specific job, you’ll need to provide:

• Your resume
• The job description of the role you’re interested in
• Information about what kind of tone you’d prefer

You can also ask the AI to review your cover letter for readability and help you get through a bout of writer’s block.

Prompts for these sorts of asks might look like:

• Write a cover letter for a [position] role at [Company] in a professional tone. Use my resume and the job description as a reference.
• I want you to review my cover letter for readability and relevance to a job post. I will share the job post as a reference. Tailor my cover letter for the job referenced in the post and adjust wording to make it more relevant.

These prompts may feel awkward to write, almost as though you’re explaining something to a small child. But the clearer and more specific you are, the more pleased you’re likely to be with the results.

While AI like ChatGPT is making some waves on the tech scene, it doesn’t totally replace human writing and editing skills, especially when it comes to resumes and cover letters. It certainly has value but comes with a few caveats. Use ChatGPT with caution, and don’t forget to keep an eye out for grammatical errors .

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How to Create a Cover Letter with ChatGPT [Guide for 2024]

Your cover letter is a great chance to make a stellar impression on potential employers.

However, writing the perfect cover letter for each job application can be time-consuming.

The more jobs you apply to, the more cover letters you need to write. It's an endless cycle of customizing your pitch for every new opportunity.

Thanks to artificial intelligence, though, writing a cover letter doesn't have to be so daunting.

ChatGPT is an excellent tool to help you create a compelling cover letter for every job you're interested in, in just a matter of minutes!

In this article, we'll show you exactly how to do that.

We're going to cover:

• 11 Pros & Cons of Writing a Cover Letter with ChatGPT

7 Steps to Writing a Cover Letter with ChatGPT

• A Free ChatGPT Cover Letter Template

...and more!

Get ready to make ChatGPT your personal cover letter writer.

Can You Use ChatGPT to Write a Cover Letter?

Yes, you can use ChatGPT to write a cover letter.

ChatGPT is a powerful AI tool that can help streamline your job application process, saving you time and potentially improving the quality of your cover letters.

However, like any tool, it comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

So, let's explore the pros and cons of using ChatGPT to write your cover letter:

• Saves time. ChatGPT can generate a draft cover letter in seconds, significantly reducing the amount of time you have to spend on each job application.
• Ensures consistency. The AI can ensure a consistent tone and structure across multiple cover letters.
• Generates ideas. ChatGPT can provide fresh perspectives and ideas you might not have considered.
• Enhances writing. It can help improve your writing by suggesting more professional language or different phrasing.
• Tailors to the job . With the right prompts, ChatGPT can help tailor your cover letter to specific job ads for maximum impact.
• Solves writer's block. ChatGPT can help you overcome writer's block immediately by providing a starting point for your cover letter.
• Available 24/7. You can use ChatGPT to work on your cover letter at any time, day or night.
• Lacks a personal touch . AI-generated content can be generic and lack the unique personal experiences and voice you need to make your application stand out.
• Adds inaccurate information. Sometimes, ChatGPT can make up details or include wrong information if it misunderstands your prompt.
• Has limited context. Some of the nuances of your career or the specific job requirements might be lost on ChatGPT, so you’ll have to provide extra information.
• Can’t format your cover letter. While it can generate content, ChatGPT can't handle the visual formatting of your cover letter, so you have to do this part yourself.

What Is the Structure of a Cover Letter?

Writing a cover letter is crucial to your job application since it complements your resume or CV .

Your cover letter is your first opportunity to introduce yourself to the hiring manager in your own words and make a case for yourself as the best candidate for the role. However, if you want your cover letter to be impactful, you need to follow a specific structure.

Here are some of the key components it includes:

• Contact details. This section should include your contact information, such as your full name, job title, professional email, phone number, location, and any relevant links, such as a portfolio or LinkedIn profile . Make sure to add as much contact information about the hiring manager as possible.
• The greeting and introduction. You must address the letter to the right person , ideally the hiring manager or your potential direct supervisor. Then, you have to grab the reader's attention. Mention your top achievements, use numbers and facts to support your experience, and convey enthusiasm for the specific role you're applying for.
• Body paragraphs. This is the bulk of your cover letter, where you should show why you're the ideal candidate for the job. Use this space to identify the core requirements for the role, demonstrate how your experiences align with them, and highlight your passion for the company by mentioning specific things that made you interested in the position.
• Conclusion and closing. Wrap up your cover letter by recapping your key selling points, including a call to action, and adding an appropriate closing line.

Now, here’s what a great cover letter looks like in practice:

Want to learn more about what makes a stellar cover letter? Head over to our detailed guide and learn how to write a job-winning cover letter from scratch!

Now that you know what makes a great cover letter, it’s time to write your own!

We’ve split the process into easy-to-follow steps, so feel free to open ChatGPT and start working on your cover letter right away.

#1. Prepare Your Resume

Before you can start writing your cover letter with ChatGPT, you need to have your resume polished and ready to go.

Your cover letter is meant to complement your resume, which means it’ll be based on it. Done right, your resume must reference your work history, skills, achievements, and other qualifications.

If you’re looking for a job , you’re going to need an updated resume anyway, so we encourage you to do this first. It’s going to save you time down the line.

Take the time to write a professional resume that reflects your current skills, experiences, and achievements. This way, you will also refresh your memory about your professional journey, and you’ll be ready to provide ChatGPT with the necessary context to create a compelling cover letter for you.

If you’re not sure how to start, don’t worry - ChatGPT can help you write your resume , too.

#2. Use the Same Chat for Your Cover Letter

Once your resume is ready, it’s time to get started with your cover letter.

If you used ChatGPT to write your resume, you should just use the same chat to write your cover letter.

Ultimately, ChatGPT is a tool that works with the information you give it. This means that the more comprehensive and relevant your input is, the better the output you’re going to get.

Your resume already includes the details about your professional background. This means ‘feeding’ it to ChatGPT is going to need to create an impressive cover letter.

So, by using the same chat that already has that information, you’re helping ChatGPT write the best cover letter possible while keeping things consistent between both documents.

If you haven’t used ChatGPT to write your resume, you can still copy and paste its contents into a new chat. This way, ChatGPT still gets a comprehensive overview of your professional background, including your work experience , education, skills, and achievements.

But things don’t have to end there. After all, your cover letter is an opportunity to shed light on aspects of your professional life that might not fit neatly into a resume format .

You can ask ChatGPT to emphasize certain qualities or experiences that align closely with the job description. For example, you could prompt it with something like:

Write a paragraph for my cover letter that highlights my experience in project management, particularly the successful delivery of multiple projects under tight deadlines. Also, emphasize my strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams. Be informative and use simple, human language.

And here’s what output that might give you:

Think about any impressive achievements , personal projects, or standout experiences that are particularly relevant to this job but aren't described in detail in your resume.

#3. Analyze the Job Ad

If you want your cover letter to grab the hiring manager’s attention, you need to reference the job ad when writing it carefully.

The job advertisement is where you can find exactly what the employer is looking for, so it’s crucial to tailor your cover letter accordingly.

This means you must carefully read the job advertisement, identify any keywords , find the most notable requirements and necessary skills, and sprinkle the ones that apply to you throughout your cover letter.

Thankfully, this is something ChatGPT can do in seconds.

Simply copy the entire text from the job ad and paste it into your chat with ChatGPT. This way, you’re giving the chatbot the full context of what you’re applying for and it can use that information to help perfect your cover letter.

Here’s how you could introduce the job ad to your chat so ChatGPT understands you:

#4. Write a Detailed Cover Letter Prompt

The prompt you give ChatGPT will make or break the content it generates for you.

Your commands are going to determine everything about the text - its length, tone, structure, and the information it includes .

There are a few different ways you can go about this:

• Write a hyper-detailed prompt. By creating a very lengthy and personalized prompt, you’re going to tell ChatGPT exactly what you want, with very little room for speculation. This way, your first draft might be as close to perfect as possible.
• Go with the flow. If you aren’t sure that your hyper-detailed prompt can do the trick, you can adopt a conversational approach with ChatGPT and iron out the details together. This is likely to take a few drafts but the process might be smoother.

We recommend you stick to the second method since trying to create a perfect prompt for a cover letter can be frustrating.

On one hand, if you give the chatbot too little information, it’s going to ask you for clarification and backup information:

But, on the other hand, if you give ChatGPT too much information at once, it might slip up and take your cover letter in a direction you weren’t intending.

That’s why we recommend having a conversation with ChatGPT. This method allows you to give all the details the chatbot needs without overwhelming it and, by gently correcting as you move forward, your cover letter can come out perfect in the end.

Here’s an example of a follow-up prompt after ChatGPT gives you its first draft for your cover letter:

Chances are, ChatGPT will keep perfecting your draft the more you instruct it on what your perfect cover letter should look like.

Want ChatGPT to write a perfect cover letter? Copy and paste parts of our article to help explain exactly what you need your cover letter to include and how to structure it.

#5. Proofread and Edit the Text

Once ChatGPT has generated a cover letter draft that you’re happy with, it's time to add your personal touch.

For starters, it’s crucial that you thoroughly proofread and edit the cover letter. While AI can produce impressive results, it's not infallible, and you need to make sure that the letter truly represents you.

Start by reading the text carefully and keeping an eye out for any cover letter mistakes , typos, or awkward phrasing.

You can also run the text through a grammar-checking tool like Grammarly or QuillBot. ChatGPT is usually quite accurate in terms of grammar, but occasionally the tone or specific language it uses can be awkward and robotic.

Additionally, pay special attention to names, dates, and specific details about you or the company you’re applying to. Make sure that all the points you want to convey are included in the cover letter and add anything that might be missing, whether it’s an important skill or an interesting fact about you.

Next, consider the overall flow of the cover letter. Does it tell a compelling story about why you're the ideal candidate? If not, you can try rearranging some paragraphs or adding transitions between them to improve the narrative.

Lastly, read the cover letter out loud and make sure it sounds like something you would write. While ChatGPT can use different writing styles, you want the cover letter to authentically represent your voice. So, add any personal anecdotes or change the language to match how you would express yourself.

#6. Use a Cover Letter Template

Writing a cover letter with ChatGPT is a great start, but there’s one last step before you can actually submit your cover letter - making sure it's visually appealing.

ChatGPT is excellent for crafting the text for your cover letter, but it can't handle the formatting. Creating a well-formatted, visually appealing cover letter takes a bit more time and effort.

You'd need to set the margins, adjust the line spacing, and choose an appropriate font , all while making sure your cover letter complements your resume.

But if you're looking for a shortcut, this is where our cover letter builder comes in handy.

Novorésumé offers a range of professionally designed templates that let you quickly personalize your resume and cover letter!

Each template is carefully made with input from HR experts, so your job application looks stylish while meeting all industry standards. Simply paste the content you've written with ChatGPT's help into our user-friendly interface, and you'll be done in no time!

Plus, our cover letter templates are made to match our resume templates , so you can create a cohesive set of documents that's sure to impress any hiring manager.

Just pick a template to get started!

ChatGPT Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

Sometimes, your first attempt at creating a cover letter with ChatGPT might not be what you need.

The easiest way to help the AI chatbot understand what you need is to give it an example. So, you need to show it a good cover letter and ask it to improve that.

You can do that by copying our plug-and-play cover letter template and giving it to ChatGPT as a reference.

Dear [Recipient's Name],

As a seasoned [Your Profession] with [Number of Years of Experience] years of industry experience, I am eager to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With my experience in [Your Industry/Sector] and the successes I've achieved throughout my education and career, I believe I can bring unique value and creativity to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I've taken the lead on more than [Number of Projects/Assignments] projects, some valued up to $[Highest Project Value]. I pride myself on consistently exceeding client expectations and have successfully [Mention a Key Achievement] in just a [Amount of Time] through [Skill] and [Skill].

I've collaborated with various professionals, such as [List Roles], ensuring that all [projects/tasks] meet [relevant standards or objectives]. This hands-on experience, coupled with my dedication to understanding each [client's/customer's] vision, has equipped me to navigate and deliver on complex projects.

My key strengths include:

• Improving [Achievement] by [%] over [Amount of Time] which resulted in [Quantified Result].
• Optimizing [Work Process/Responsibility] which saved [Previous Employer] [Amount of Time/Budget/Other Metric] over [Weeks/Months/Years]
• Spearheading team of [Number of People] to [Task] and achieving [Quantified Result].

Alongside this letter, I've attached my resume. My educational background, a [Your Degree] with a concentration in [Your Specialization], complements the practical skills that I'm particularly eager to share with [Company Name].

I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Something Notable About the Company or Its Mission]. I'd be grateful for the chance to delve deeper into how my expertise aligns with your needs.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

[Your Full Name]

FAQs on Writing a Cover Letter with ChatGPT

Are you still wondering something about writing a cover letter with ChatGPT? Check out the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions below.

#1. Do I Need a Cover Letter?

Yes, you need to submit a cover letter with your application. Most hiring managers will expect one, and not including it can lead to an immediate rejection.

Even when it’s not explicitly asked for, writing a cover letter will give you the upper hand. It shows you’re willing to go the extra mile for this job opportunity, as well as allows you to elaborate on your qualifications, show enthusiasm for the role, and demonstrate your communication skills.

#2. Is It Okay to Use ChatGPT to Write My Cover Letter?

Yes, it's okay to use ChatGPT to help write your cover letter, so long as it isn’t the only thing you’re relying on.

ChatGPT can be a great starting point, helping you organize your thoughts and make your first draft, but it's crucial to personalize its output. Your cover letter should reflect your unique voice, experiences, and interest in the job.

So, use ChatGPT as an assistant, not as a replacement for your own input. Always review, edit, and refine the AI-generated content so it both represents you and addresses what the employer is looking for.

#3. Is It Obvious I Used ChatGPT for My Cover Letter?

It might be obvious you used ChatGPT if you don't properly edit and personalize the content of your cover letter.

ChatGPT can sometimes produce generic or overly formal language that doesn't sound human. If your cover letter has no personal anecdotes, specific details about your experiences, or genuine enthusiasm for the role, it may also come across as artificial.

To avoid this, make sure you thoroughly review and customize the output ChatGPT gives you. Add your voice, include specific examples from your career, and use a tone that’s appropriate for the company you’re applying to.

#4. How Long Should My Cover Letter Be?

Your cover letter should typically be between 250 and 400 words , fitting on a single page. This usually translates to anywhere between three and seven paragraphs.

If you're writing a short cover letter , just stick to the lower end of this range.

When it comes to cover letters, quality is more important than quantity. Tailor the length to the job and industry, but always prioritize being clear and engaging over hitting a specific word count.

Key Takeaways

That’s the end of our article!

By now, we’re sure you’re an expert at writing cover letters with ChatGPT.

But before we wrap up, let's recap the main points we've covered about using ChatGPT to write your cover letter:

• ChatGPT can be a great tool for crafting your cover letter since it saves you time and potentially improves the quality of your writing.
• Make sure you have your resume ready and analyze the job ad before you start using ChatGPT for your first draft. This way, the chatbot can ensure that your cover letter is tailored to the role you’re applying for.
• While ChatGPT can write great content, you still need to proofread and edit the text to make sure it accurately represents you and your unique experiences.
• A great cover letter complements your resume instead of just repeating it. Use ChatGPT to elaborate on your achievements and show enthusiasm for the role.
• Don’t expect your prompt to result in a perfect cover letter. Try having a conversation with ChatGPT so you can gently correct it until it gets your cover letter just right.
• ChatGPT can’t handle every part of your cover letter. It’s a great tool to help you write the text, not design it. We recommend you use a professional cover letter template so your application looks as good as it reads.

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