In recent weeks, ChatGPT has been one of the most hyped topics in the world of digitalization. This pre-trained artificial intelligence (AI) system is fed with data from the internet and learns through dialogues with users. Although the system currently works with training data up until 2021 and still has some kinks to work out, its introduction has been compared to the first smartphone, the introduction of Amazon, and even the invention of the printing press!
The newly accessible ChatGPT can do many things, such as formatting statistics, writing poems, coding computer programs, creating blog posts or even custom cover letters, and soon it will even be able to produce audit reports and management reviews for companies. As a result, artificial intelligence will be part of many people’s daily lives soon. In short, no one can avoid the topic of AI any longer.
But what do AI systems like ChatGPT actually do? What are the implications for work, particularly for job seekers?
ChatGPT responds to users’ questions and, unlike its chatbot ancestors that had limited answer options, it has been trained on a huge amount of data (several billion words) using machine learning techniques to generate human-like text. As a result, ChatGPT is able to answer a variety of topics and inquiries and behave like a human conversational partner.
It is easy to see why people might be tempted to use AI systems to write time-consuming and tedious texts, such as work samples, PowerPoint presentations, or essays. For many job seekers, the traditional cover letter is at the top of their list: not everyone is born to write professional texts and motivation letters, after all. ChatGPT could easily take care of this by simply providing the job title, position, and the job being applied for, and then prompted to “write me a cover letter…”. This leads to the question: is AI thus another milestone on the way to automating the job application process?
To explore this, I decided to use ChatGPT to apply for the currently advertised position at LVQ Weiterbildung und Beratung GmbH for an online communication position. ChatGPT took just 50 seconds to write my cover letter. At first glance, the result was pretty good:
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to apply for the Online Marketing position at Kabson New Media Inc. As a 45-year-old, I bring extensive experience and expertise in online marketing and social media.
With over 10 years of experience in the field, I have developed a deep understanding of the latest digital marketing trends and have a proven track record of successful campaigns. My ability to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and platforms has allowed me to stay ahead of the curve in this constantly evolving field.
In my current position as Marketing Manager at XYZ Company, I have overseen the creation and implementation of successful campaigns across a variety of channels, including social media, email marketing, and content marketing. I have also developed and managed successful partnerships with influencers and other brands.
I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to Kabson New Media Inc. and contribute to the continued success of the company. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Frank Müller
This cover letter from ChatGPT is well-structured and captures some keywords – but there’s something missing. It lacks a real connection to the company and the industry, and a real motivation for the application is hard to see beyond the usual “applicant speak.” And that’s the point: the cover
In conclusion, while the emergence of chatbots and AI systems like Chat GPT may seem like a convenient solution for job seekers, it’s important to recognize their limitations in terms of providing personalized, nuanced communication. Automated systems can certainly assist with the initial screening and application process, but they cannot replace the value of human interaction and the importance of building a personal brand through networking and personal development.
Moreover, it’s important to approach new technology and trends with a critical eye and a willingness to learn and adapt. As with any tool, the effectiveness of Chat GPT and similar AI systems is highly dependent on how it is used and integrated into the job search process.
Ultimately, a successful job search requires a combination of creativity, resourcefulness, and strategic thinking. By staying informed about the latest developments in the job market and utilizing a range of resources and approaches, job seekers can maximize their chances of finding the right opportunity for their unique skills and experience.
