I’m getting people coming to me with tales of woe about their AI-created resumes. “Please Malcolm”, they say, “can you fix it?”
Recruiters and employers are spiking up to 80 per cent of job applications if they suspect automation was involved. if you put your brain in neutral, you deserve everything you get.
Employers and recruiters want authenticity
Hiring folk hate AI-generated resumes because they lack what any human reader craves when reviewing a job application—authenticity. AI tools churn out resumes that are lifeless, robotic, and generic. They are the enemy of intelligence, motivation and originality.
Employers are looking for candidates who are not only qualified but motivated to put in the effort. A resume that lacks originality suggests laziness and a lack of genuine interest in the role.
The AI red flags
Recruiters are trained to recognise patterns in resumes. And AI-generated documents follow predictable trends. These are red flags:
- Lack of Personalisation: AI tools frequently recycle templates, which means they fail to tailor applications to the specific roles or companies.
- Generic Language and Repetition: AI-generated resumes often use vague buzzwords like “dynamic professional” or “proven track record” without providing details or examples.
- Keyword Stuffing: Overloading resumes with industry buzzwords might impress an algorithm but not the human reviewing your application.
- Overly Formal or “Perfect” Language: While polished presentation is important, AI resumes often sound too stiff and lack personality employers want.
- Unusual Formatting: Strange layouts or formatting choices might grab attention for all the wrong reasons.
- Lack of Depth or Insight: AI-generated resumes tend to highlight responsibilities, not results, and they miss opportunities to showcase real impact.
You can’t fake authenticity
Move beyond generic phrases. Instead of saying “Managed multiple projects with tight deadlines,” say “Successfully led a $500K marketing campaign, exceeding deadline expectations by 20%.”
Keep It conversational: A natural tone makes a resume feel relatable, so don’t shy away from sentence structures that mirror the way you would describe your accomplishments in person.
Authenticity is what hiring managers crave most. Keeping things human is the secret.
What sets a standout resume apart? A balance of strategy, creativity, and technical knowledge that AI can’t replicate.
A great resume highlights measurable achievements, conveys the applicant’s unique value, and aligns every word, format, and detail perfectly with the employers expectations.
Beat the algorithm and land the job
When done correctly, a tailored resume doesn’t just pass applicant tracking systems (ATS). It builds trust with hiring managers. If you avoid AI’s red flags and infuse human insight, recruiters will focus on what matters most: the value you bring.
Why Authenticity is the real difference
Employers want to see how your unique skills, background, and motivations make you the perfect fit for the role. These are the things that AI can never replicate.
Your resume is more than a document. It’s your story and how you tell it can make all the difference in landing your dream job. Are you ready to make yours unforgettable?