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How to Write a Cover Letter Using ChatGPT in 7 Steps (+Prompt Template)

  • Klara Cervenanska , 
  • Updated January 30, 2024 11 min read

Thanks to tools like ChatGPT, the once-dreaded task of writing cover letters is becoming more manageable. But do you actually know how to write a cover letter using ChatGPT?

If you're not familiar with this tool and how to use it, your cover letter might become an even bigger mess than it was before.

Furthermore, using a generic prompt, such as "Write a cover letter for a junior accountant," will result in a generic cover letter.

To avoid that, we'll guide you through the essential steps to operate this AI language model effectively and explore the right prompts for writing a cover letter — ensuring your cover letter is personalized, tailored for the job, and professional.

Lastly, we'll also show you an alternative to using ChatGPT for crafting your cover letter.

But first...

Table of Contents

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What is ChatGPT?

How to write a cover letter using chatgpt in 7 steps, prompt template for chatgpt to write a personalized cover letter, the drawbacks and limitations of chatgpt.

  • If you don't want to use ChatGPT...

Key takeaways: How to write a cover letter using ChatGPT?

Due to the current hype, you probably already heard about it.

ChatGPT is a state-of-the-art AI language model developed by OpenAI, designed to generate human-like text based on user input.

This tool is useful for a variety of tasks, such as drafting emails, writing articles, providing customer support, or debugging code.

To better understand how ChatGPT can help you with your cover letter writing process, let's explore its key capabilities.

  • understands context and generates relevant content
  • adapts to different writing styles and tones
  • responds effectively to user prompts for customized output
  • is capable of generating creative and engaging text

Hence, in the context of crafting cover letters, this AI tool can be a game changer for job seekers and provide a high-quality draft and/or improve the overall quality of your writing.

Want to try an easier option?

Discover Kickresume's AI Writer. Instantly generate eye-catching, ready-to-use cover letters in stunning templates.

Now that you know the key capabilities of ChatGPT, let's explore step-by-step how to use this powerful AI tool to write a cover letter.

By following these 7 steps, you'll be able to produce an impressive cover letter in minutes.

1. Sign up and create a free account on OpenAI

Head over to chat.openai.com and sign up for a free account. It's pretty straightforward — all you need is an email address, Google account, or Microsoft account.

Both the website and app are completely free to use.

Since ChatGPT is extremely popular, you might encounter some delays while signing up. If that happens, just wait a few minutes and try again.

Just FYI, there's also a paid version called ChatGPT Plus, which has a number of advantages, including faster response times. Currently, it's available for $20/month.

2. Ask ChatGPT what information it needs from you to write a cover letter

This tool is, first and foremost, a chatbot. Hence, you can actually ask ChatGPT what information it needs from you in order to create a well-written and personalized cover letter.

So, instead of guessing what information about yourself to include in the prompt, the AI tells you directly.

Use one of the following prompts to inquire about ChatGPT's requirements:

  • I'm in the process of applying for a job and need your assistance in writing a persuasive and effective cover letter. Could you instruct me on the necessary details I should provide you with to compose such cover letter?
  • I'm currently in the process of applying for a job and need your help in crafting a cover letter for me. Can you explain what information and details you would need from my end to create the most effective and compelling cover letter for me?

The chatbot will then give a list of information it needs, why it needs them, and some concrete examples.

For instance, here's what ChatGPT churned out after using the second prompt:

3. Ask ChatGPT to create an example prompt containing the required information

Now that you know what the AI needs from you to create a cover letter, you may need a little help with phrasing the full prompt.

After all, it requires a lot of information and details from you, including a job description. Hence, it may be a little complicated to formulate an effective prompt.

So, here's what to say next to make the chatbot create the full prompt for you:

  • Can you create an example prompt I should give you that entails all of the information you require?
  • That's good. Can you give me an example of a prompt that includes all of the information and details you said you need?

Then, GPT does the work for you and creates an example of the final prompt.

Have a look:

It might also be helpful to utilize some additional resources like  AI prompts by PromptVibes   to get some inspiration or guidance in crafting your prompts.

4. Copy the example prompt and fill in with your own information

Now that ChatGPT created an example of the whole prompt for you, copy it.

Paste the example prompt as a prompt. You'll use this as a template/inspiration.

And now comes the harder part. You need to replace all of the squared brackets or "sample details" with your own details and relevant information.

It shouldn't be too complicated since you already have inspiration for what to include and how to write it from GPT.

Rather than attaching the job description, copy it from the job ad and paste it into the prompt where required.

Plus, consider adding any extra specifications in the prompt...

5. Add any additional details to finalize the prompt

Now that you provided ChatGPT with the essential information for your cover letter, you can now specify any extra details.

These can include your desired tone, style, or word count.

Have a look at an example of how to specify any extra details for the prompt:

Additional instructions for ChatGPT

  • Word count: The cover letter should be between 200 and 300 words long.
  • Tone: The tone should be professional and persuasive but still natural.
  • Style: The text should be well-structured with clearly defined paragraphs.

Now your prompt should contain everything to ensure the AI generates a personalized and relevant cover letter.

Here's what the final prompt looks like:

Dear ChatGPT,

I am currently applying for the [position title] position at [company name] and I am seeking your assistance in crafting a compelling cover letter.

Could you please help me by using the following information to create an effective cover letter?

  • Job Description: [Insert a copy of the job description here]
  • Company Information: [Provide some background information about the company’s mission, values, and culture]
  • My Goals: [Tell me about your professional goals and how this job fits into your career aspirations]
  • My Achievements: [Provide some examples of your previous accomplishments that are relevant to the position you are applying for]
  • My Motivation: [Tell me why you are interested in this particular job and what excites you about the opportunity]
  • Additional instructions: The cover letter should be between [word count] words long. The tone should be [you can include multiple adjectives] . The text should be well-structured with clearly defined paragraphs.

Thank you for your assistance, and I look forward to seeing what you create.

6. Run the prompt and review the output

Finally, run the prompt. It'll take a few minutes at most.

Here's the final cover letter written by ChatGPT:

When your cover letter is generated, ask yourself:

  • Do I like the output?
  • Does it include everything you wanted?
  • Is there something specific I don't like?
  • Is it long enough? Or is it too long?

You want to examine the cover letter to make sure everything is to your liking.

If you find a specific thing you'd like to adjust, feel free to specify this as your next prompt.

For instance:

  • That's good, but I think it's too long. Can you make it a little shorter?
  • That's good, but I don't like that every paragraph starts with "I". Can you re-phrase the first sentence of each paragraph?
  • That's good, but you used too many keywords from the job description. Can you re-phrase it and use the keywords from the job description less?

And, if you like the cover letter but you're not 100% convinced and can't pinpoint why — hit the Regenerate response button. Just make sure to save each output so that you have some options to choose from.

7. Proofread and edit the final cover letter

After the AI generates your cover letters, it's crucial to review them for any misrepresentations, mistakes, or grammar errors.

So, make sure to proofread and carefully edit the content before sending it.

Here are a couple of things that you might need to edit:

  • Grammar & punctuation. ChatGPT often struggles with commas and inconsistencies in the verb tense in particular.
  • Repetitive vocabulary. Replace repetitive or vague words with more precise and varied vocabulary to provide clarity and avoid redundancy.
  • Sentence structure & flow. Rearrange sentences or rephrase them to improve the overall flow of the text. Also, break up long sentences into shorter ones and combine short, choppy sentences.
  • Fact-checking. Verify any facts, statistics, or claims made within the text to ensure they are accurate and up-to-date.
  • Consistency in formatting. This mostly includes consistency in abbreviations or capitalization.

Additionally, keep in mind that ChatGPT's homepage warns about the possibility of generating incorrect or biased content — so always fact-check! More on ChatGPT's drawbacks later.

Ideally, you should use the AI-generated cover letters as a starting point for the final version you'll send. Or an inspiration, if you will.

As mentioned before, ChatGPT isn't perfect.

While ChatGPT can be a valuable tool in generating content, you have to be aware of its shortcomings when using this tool to create your cover letter.

Here are some of the potential challenges you may encounter when using ChatGPT to write a cover letter:

  • Limited understanding of context. ChatGPT might not fully comprehend the complexities of a specific job or industry, and may struggle to understand complex queries. This could lead to generic or less-targeted content in a cover letter.
  • Inaccurate or nonsensical responses. Since the chatbot doesn't possess human-level understanding, it might generate irrelevant, incorrect, or illogical information — which can decrease the quality of a cover letter.
  • Sensitivity to input phrasing . The way a prompt is phrased may affect the response generated by ChatGPT. Slight changes in phrasing can lead to different or inconsistent content in the cover letter.
  • Wordiness. ChatGPT may produce wordy or repetitive responses, which could result in a cover letter that's perceived as unprofessional or difficult to read.
  • Over-optimization for engagement. This can lead to a cover letter that contains catchy or captivating phrases but lacks the necessary information or professional tone expected in a job application.

If you don't want to use ChatGPT...

As you can probably tell, writing a cover letter with ChatGPT isn't so straightforward. It takes a lot of effort to put together a suitable prompt, adjust all of the details and information to be more personal, and has a couple of limitations overall.

What's more, this chatbot only provides you with raw text, which you then need to design and format yourself. You may also need to add a signature in a different text editor.

So, if you're looking for an alternative AI-powered solution to help you write a cover letter, consider Kickresume — a platform that specializes in creating professional resumes and cover letters (with or without AI).

Their AI cover letter writer tool uses the GPT-4 language model (used by ChatGPT, too) to produce cover letters without the need to create a lengthy prompt. The generated cover letter is well-formatted and designed and ready-for-use immediately.

Here's why you might want to give Kickresume's AI Cover Letter Writer a try:

  • No complicated prompt is required. Kickresume specializes in resumes and cover letters. Which is why the AI cover letter writer only needs a few basic data from you, and there's no need to generate multiple prompts.
  • Easy-to-use interactive platform. A user-friendly interface that makes navigating and creating your cover letter a breeze. To create an AI cover letter, you simply fill in a 2-step questionnaire, where you provide your desired job title, the job description, your credentials, and your previous employment. You can then add any details and edit the cover letter.
  • Cover letter ready to use immediately. You don't need to worry about formatting or designing your cover letter. There's a variety of visually appealing templates available that follow industry-standard formatting. You can customize the design to match your preferred style. Once you pick a template, your letter is ready to be used.
  • Provides expert tips & guidance. Apart from templates and AI assistance, Kickresume also offers expert guidance on crafting the perfect cover letter. Its Help Center is constantly updated with advice articles to help you make the best impression on potential employers.
  • Integrated signature feature. You can digitally sign your documents , eliminating the need to add a signature in a separate text editor. This ensures that your cover letter looks polished and professional.
  • Pre-written content for various industries. If you’d like to add more role-specific content to your cover letter, you also have access to pre-written phrases specific for various industries and job roles.

Here's an example of an AI-generated cover letter created with Kickresume:

AI-generated cover letter created with Kickresume

This cover letter was generated using Kickresume’s AI writer for  “copywriter”  position.

Despite the limitations of this language model, ChatGPT can be a very valuable tool in generating content for a cover letter.

Here's a quick rundown of how to write a cover letter using ChatGPT in 7 steps:

  • Sign up and create a free account on OpenAI.
  • Ask ChatGPT what information it needs from you to write a cover letter.
  • Ask ChatGPT to create an example prompt that contains all the information it required from you in the previous step.
  • Copy the example prompt and replace all of the "sample" details with your own details.
  • Add any additional details to finalize the prompt, including the word count, tone, and style.
  • Run the prompt and review the output. If you want another option, click regenerate response .
  • Proofread and edit the final cover letter. Is it over-using certain keywords? Is the grammar correct?

Every cover letter needs a resume, too.

Let our AI resume writer write the first draft of your resume for you.

Klara graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. After having written resumes for many of her fellow students, she began writing full-time for Kickresume. Klara is our go-to person for all things related to student or 'no experience resumes'. At the same time, she has written some of the most popular resume advice articles on this blog. Her pieces were featured in multiple CNBC articles. When she's not writing, you'll probably find her chasing dogs or people-watching while sipping on a cup of coffee.

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ChatGPT cover letters: How to use this tool the right way

young-man-sitting-in-his-kitchen-drinking-coffee-and-using-laptop-chat-gpt-cover-letter

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What is ChatGPT?

How to write a cover letter using chatgpt, make ai work for you: 3 extra tips, write a cover letter that stands out.

When applying for a job, you always provide a resume.

But a cover letter holds just as much weight — if not more — in hiring decisions. It gives you a chance to elaborate on your resume and explain why you’re right for the job.

Like a letter of interest , your cover letter is the recruiter or hiring manager ’s first impression of you. It should be professional, persuasive, and well-written. 

With that in mind, written communication isn’t everyone’s strong suit, and that’s okay. There are resume builders and cover letter templates to guide the way. And if those tools aren’t enough, artificial intelligence (AI), like ChatGPT, can also help you put your best foot forward. 

Here’s how to harness AI and write a ChatGPT cover letter that looks professional and wins over recruiters.

ChatGPT is an AI language processing tool that burst into pop culture at the end of 2022. As of June 2023, the program is available for free because it’s still in the research and feedback-collection phase, but there’s a paid subscription option called ChatGPT Plus.

AI research company OpenAI reportedly trained ChatGPT on a massive dataset of over 8 million documents and 10 billion words , which helped the program develop a complex understanding of the patterns and relationships in human speech. 

When you ask ChatGPT a question or give it a command — like “Write a cover letter for me based on my resume” — the AI uses those patterns to create a string of words it predicts will best answer your question. The result is often eloquent and professional-sounding content. 

In the short time it’s been available to the public, ChatGPT has become wildly popular. It gained 100 million active users just two months after its launch , setting a record for the fastest adoption of a new consumer app. It’s clear that people love this tool — and they’re using it for everything from computer code to resumes and cover letters.

While ChatGPT is a remarkable tool, it’s important to remember that it’s just that: a tool. The responses you get depend on the prompt you give, so it’s wise to learn how to use ChatGPT to your advantage. If you want to use this program to write your next cover letter, follow this step-by-step guide:

1. Gather your information

For ChatGPT to write your job application cover letter, you’ll need to give it some information about you and the job you’re applying for. The first thing you need to do is gather everything you’re including in the prompt. This should consist of the following:

  • Your contact information
  • Your work history, including a brief description of past responsibilities and personal achievements
  • Your educational history, including any master’s degrees and notable honors and awards
  • Your special skills or training relevant to the job posting 
  • The job description and roles and responsibilities of the position

man-writing-on-notebook-sitting-on-the-floor-chat-gpt-cover-letter

This information will help you use ChatGPT as a cover letter generator that writes text specific to your desired job. The chatbot will analyze the job description for key information, like required education or skills, and use your work history and qualifications to draft a letter showcasing your abilities to meet the employer’s needs. 

2. Prep the prompt

Once you have your resume and all other vital information handy, it’s time to ask ChatGPT to make a cover letter. Your prompt should be as specific as possible to help the AI create a tailored response that meets your needs.

Start your ChatGPT prompt by telling the chatbot what you’re looking for. For example:

I need you to write a cover letter for my application at [insert company name]. Please base the letter on the job description below.

Then, copy and paste the description from the original job posting . This encourages ChatGPT to use key phrases from the post and highlight your most relevant experience. 

Next, you need to tell the AI chatbot a little about yourself. Input your contact information, your education history, and other skills from your resume or CV that you feel pertain to the position you’re applying for. You can even add your resume to the prompt to give the chatbot additional details. That way it uses as much information as possible.

Once you add everything you need, your prompt might look like this:

I need help drafting a cover letter for my application at [insert company name]. Please base the letter on the job description below:

[insert job posting]

Here is important information about me:

Contact info: [name, email address, LinkedIn profile ]

Work experience: [relevant work history]

Education history: [degrees, certifications, any applicable awards and honors]

Special skills: [relevant skills for the position]

I am including my resume below. Please highlight my experience and responsibilities from [previous company].

Once you’ve entered all the information above, simply hit “enter” and let the chatbot get to work. In a few seconds, it should have a customized cover letter ready for you. 

Here’s an example of ChatGPT’s response to a prompt asking for a hypothetical cover letter for an aspiring marketing manager:

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

3. Refine the response

While ChatGPT can write a cover letter based on the details you entered, its initial draft may still have room for improvement. It might not highlight everything you wanted it to, and there’s a chance the writing might sound robotic. 

Luckily, you can ask the chatbot to refine and rewrite its results as many times as you want. You could ask it to adjust the tone of your cover letter to make it more upbeat or formal, or write a paragraph about a specific team goal you helped meet.

You can also tailor the formatting at this stage. When ChatGPT creates resume and cover letter examples, it typically adds a traditional heading. Instead, you can prompt it to reformat the letter for an email and create a subject line. Here’s an example from a prompt that said “Can you make this cover letter suitable for email?”:

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

Once you have the formatting down, give the letter a thorough read. ChatGPT is a highly advanced AI, but it’s not infallible. Take the time to proofread the cover letter for any typos, incorrect information, or phrasing that doesn’t serve your goal of landing a job interview . At only a few hundred words, you want to make that space count.

For example, ChatGPT may point out hard and soft skills you’re missing from the job description instead of highlighting the ones you do have. If you spot these kinds of errors, simply ask it to generate a new response without them. 

Remember, a cover letter is your opportunity to make a great first impression on your prospective employer. Take the time and ensure ChatGPT creates the best letter possible. It might seem like a lengthy process, but it’s likely shorter than the time it would take you to write a cover letter from scratch.

While ChatGPT can write a decent cover letter with even the simplest prompts, a few tips and tricks will improve its output. Try these suggestions to make your cover letter even better: 

Keep the thread open

As an AI program, ChatGPT learns from the conversations and prompts it gets from users. But once you close the page, the program might “forget” its previous conversations. If you want to make changes to your cover letter, it’s best to make those requests in a single thread. This helps the chatbot remember your asks and you keep track of the changes you made. 

woman-using-computer-at-coffee-shop-chat-gpt-cover-letter

Specify the letter length

While you may have a lot to say in your cover letter, keeping it concise is key. The ideal cover letter is no longer than three paragraphs that span about half a page, or around 150–300 words. ChatGPT may not yield this rule because it wants to include all of the information from the prompt. If it does present you with text that’s too long or too short, ask it to adjust. 

Ask to include keywords

According to a 2019 report, over 99% of Fortune 500 companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) . These systems analyze your resume and cover letter and weed out any that don’t include certain keywords or meet their standards. If your letter doesn’t have the right information, it could get lost in the database. 

Ask ChatGPT to include certain keywords and phrases in your cover letter. Read through the job description and look for job-specific information like required software knowledge, soft skills , and GPA requirements .

Tell the chatbot to mention these in the cover letter to increase your chances of getting out of the ATS and onto a hiring manager ’s screen. 

Your ChatGPT cover letter saves you time and makes your job search a little easier — which is why so many people are using this technology. But no matter how many cover letters you and the chatbot write, remember to always give it a personal touch.  

There are millions of people using this language model to help with their job searches, and while AI tools create great resumes and compelling cover letters, you want to avoid submitting something generic. Tailoring your prompt can help you write applications that stand out from other candidates, helping you land a job you love .

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3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

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How to Use ChatGPT to Create a Cover Letter for a New Job

Last Updated: June 17, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was written by Stan Kats and by wikiHow staff writer, Rain Kengly . Stan Kats is the COO and Chief Technologist for The STG IT Consulting Group in West Hollywood, California. Stan provides comprehensive technology & cybersecurity solutions to businesses through managed IT services, and for individuals through his consumer service business, Stan's Tech Garage. Stan has over 7 years of cybersecurity experience, holding senior positions in information security at General Motors, AIG, and Aramark over his career. Stan received a BA in International Relations from The University of Southern California. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 3,645 times.

Do you need help crafting a personal cover letter for a job listing? With some provided information, ChatGPT can easily help you write a great cover letter in seconds. This can take away some of the stress associated with job applications. You'll just need an OpenAI account to get started. This wikiHow will show you how to use OpenAI's ChatGPT to write a compelling and professional cover letter for your next job application.

Things You Should Know

  • Log into your ChatGPT account and start a new chat. Have the job listing and your resume ready.
  • Generate a prompt with the request, the job description, your resume information, and a word limit.
  • If necessary, rephrase sections of the response to make it sound more unique and specific to your needs.

Step 1 Log into https://chat.openai.com/...

  • Write me a cover letter using the following job description and my resume for reference. Keep it under 500 words.
  • [Copy and paste entire job listing here (text only)].
  • [Copy and paste your entire resume here (text only)]
  • If you don't feel comfortable providing your resume information in ChatGPT itself, you can input it yourself later. ChatGPT will usually provide a field with [two brackets] where you can enter the needed information.

Tyrone Showers

Tyrone Showers

Be specific when using ChatGPT. Clear and concise prompts outlining your exact needs help ChatGPT tailor its response. Specify the desired outcome (e.g., creative writing, informative summary, functional resume), any length constraints (word or character count), and the preferred emotional tone (formal, humorous, etc.)

Step 5 Press ↵ Enter or click the arrow icon.

  • Be sure to edit any empty fields and enter information as needed, such as addresses, names, and headers.
  • Keep in mind that while ChatGPT learns and updates frequently, the system isn't perfect. It's possible to receive false information or answers that seem correct but don't make sense. Be sure to fact-check and reread the cover letter before sending it.

Step 7 Rephrase sections if necessary.

  • Copy and paste a section back into ChatGPT.
  • Type "rephrase this paragraph".
  • Press Enter .
  • Review the rephrased section. Replace the old section, or rephrase it again.

Pay close attention to the content ChatGPT generates. If you use ChatGPT often, you'll start noticing its patterns, like its tendency to begin articles with phrases like "in today's digital world." Once you spot patterns, you can refine your prompts to steer ChatGPT in a better direction and avoid repetitive content.

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How to use ChatGPT to write a cover letter (and why you should)

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As if perfectly crafting a resume that encapsulates your entire career isn't difficult enough, job applications also require a cover letter. This letter is meant to help you express specific details about why you are interested in the company, what makes you qualified, and, ultimately, why the company should hire you. 

How to use ChatGPT to create: Code | Excel formulas | Essays | Resumes  | Apps  | Charts and Tables  

If executed properly, a cover letter has the potential to make you stand out from other applicants by showcasing your genuine interest in the role, the experiences that make you a good fit, and what makes you different from other candidates who have similar qualifications.

However, synthesizing those ideas into a one-page letter can be a time-consuming and challenging task -- ChatGPT is here to help. 

How to use ChatGPT to help craft your cover letter 

Whether you've started writing a cover letter and feel stuck or don't even know where to start, ChatGPT can help you produce the cover letter of your dreams. 

Also: How to use ChatGPT

With a couple of prompts and your direction, ChatGPT will create a polished cover letter within seconds. 

1. Visit ChatGPT

To get started, visit ChatGPT's website. Signing in is entirely optional, but it grants you extra perks such as being able to use the chat history feature to review your responses at a later time. If you don't have an account, you can create one or sign in using your existing Google or Microsoft account. 

If you haven't created an account, click on Sign up. Otherwise, log in with your OpenAI credentials.

2. Ask ChatGPT to write you a cover letter

To have ChatGPT generate a cover letter for you, all you have to do is ask ChatGPT to write a cover letter for the role and company of your choice. You should also include details about the experiences you want the cover letter to highlight. 

Also: 6 ways OpenAI just supercharged ChatGPT for free users

For example, a possible input would be, "Can you write me a cover letter for the role of Associate Editor at ZDNET? I graduated from the University of North Carolina, majored in Journalism, and love technology."  

That is only a general example; you can be as specific or general as you want. The more direction you give ChatGPT, however, the better your output will be.

I included screenshots of the results below. If you want to take a closer look or read with more ease, you can click on the upper right-hand corner to expand each photo. 

3. Kick it up a notch and paste in the job description (optional)

If you want your cover letter to be tailored to the exact role you are applying for, you can copy and paste the job description into ChatGPT before asking it to write your cover letter. This method is by far the most efficient approach to getting your cover letter written in a way that reflects the exact role and duties. 

Also: 5 ways AI can help you study - for free

As before, you also can include details about your own experience you'd like to include. Your prompt could look something like this, "Can you write me a cover letter for the position of [role title] at [employer]? This is the job description: XYZ. For context, I [include experiences you'd like to highlight]."

4. Co-edit your cover letter

Despite ChatGPT's best efforts and advanced capabilities, there might be something you want to tweak in the letter. If that's the case, it's super simple to change something. All you have to do is ask ChatGPT to tweak a specific aspect of your letter, and it will. 

Also: ChatGPT vs. ChatGPT Plus: Is a paid subscription still worth it?

For example, following the cover letter generated above, you could say, "Can you emphasize my passion for tech a bit more?"

Are cover letters necessary for a job application?

Cover letters are not always required for a job application. However, almost all job applications either require one or give you the option to submit one. The benefits of a cover letter include having the employer get to know you more and helping you stand out from other applicants. 

Should you use ChatGPT to write a cover letter?

ChatGPT can write an impressive cover letter within seconds, allowing you to focus more attention on other parts of your application that require more time and effort. ChatGPT produces the letter; you can always add your edits to give it your flair. 

What should be showcased in a cover letter?

Your cover letter should help to set you apart from other applicants. Therefore, it should communicate what interests you about the role and what experiences make you a great fit. Try not to regurgitate the information already on your resume since you want this to showcase a different side of you. 

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How to write a cover letter using ChatGPT

I tried it out myself.

How to write a cover letter using ChatGPT

[Photo: Josh Sorenson /Unsplash]

BY  Kateri Waltermeyer 5 minute read

The internet has been swirling with talk of ChatGPT, the Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool that can write just about anything. But have you thought about how you might be able to apply AI to your job search?

If you’re searching for a job, chances are you’ll need to write a cover letter at some point. It can be time-consuming to write a personalized cover letter for each job, but there’s a fast and easy way to do it using ChatGPT .

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is an online chatbot tool that allows you to enter simple prompts and receive text outputs in response. While some say ChatGPT is a powerful new tool , others have questioned the strength and accuracy of ChatGPT’s responses. 

Regardless, you can use ChatGPT to generate custom cover letters based on your specific qualifications and the job requirements—or at the very least, get you started. All you have to do is enter some basic information about the position you’re interested in, and ChatGPT can create a personalized cover letter for you.

It only takes a few minutes to get started and it’s completely free! So if you’re looking for an easy way to write your next cover letter, give ChatGPT a try.

How to use ChatGPT to write a cover letter

Writing a great cover letter can be a time-consuming task, but with ChatGPT it can be more like tailoring a ready-made template. 

First, you will need to sign up with your email address. You will then follow the prompt to open a “New Chat”and give the program information about yourself, the job you are applying for, and highlights from your résumé and experience. From there, ChatGPT takes care of the rest. Using natural language processing technology, it assembles an appropriate cover letter based on all of the information provided. Finally, you will want to review, edit, and fine-tune what ChatGPT produces. 

Chat GPT in action

To determine if ChatGPT can be used to create a quality cover letter, I tried it out myself. I told ChatGPT to write a cover letter for a job application as a phlebotomist, and this is what I got back:

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

This is a solid start on a cover letter, but the main issue is that it’s very generic. You’re going to want to put in some personal information about yourself and what makes you stand out from the other applicants before you hit submit.

Now I must admit, what ChatGPT generated is not perfect, but it’s a pretty good template that you can update and tailor with your own information to save yourself time starting one from scratch. All that’s left for you at that point is to review it, add a few details about yourself, and then send it on its way.

With ChatGPT generating your initial draft, there’ll be no more feeling overwhelmed by the task of writing a cover letter—just get creative and let the bot do the rest! 

How to fine-tune your ChatGPT cover letter

In order to transform ChatGPT’s response into a high-quality cover letter, you are going to want to spend some time customizing the cover letter for you. Here are three things to consider: 

  • Make it specific to you

Customizing the draft by adding specific details about yourself and the job will make the cover letter less generic and increase your chances of being selected for an interview.

Tailor the opening paragraph by mentioning something you really like about the company, either based on a personal connection or your own research. Further customize the draft by editing it to add specific details about yourself, your relevant experiences, and how they make you a great fit for the job that you are applying for.

It’s also important to note that AI generated text can sometimes sound formal or cold. Rephrase or expand on the content in the template to make it match your own tone of voice to avoid sounding like a computer.

A few extra moments of effort invested upfront may just be what lands you that long-sought-after gig!

  • Proofread the cover letter

For any job application, the cover letter can make or break your chances of being selected for an interview. Even with an AI-generated template, it is important to take time and care when proofreading your cover letter. Any mistakes in grammar, spelling, and punctuation can have a negative effect on the overall professionalism of your application .

Additionally, ensure that your cover letter is visually appealing and nicely formatted in order to make a great overall impression. By doing this, you show employers that you are professional, detail oriented, and proactive, which will help you to stand out from other applicants.

  • Personalize the closing statement

To make your cover letter stand out, personalize the closing with a statement that is friendly and professional. Recap the skills that you bring and how you can add value to the team. Don’t miss this last chance to show the employer why you are best suited for the job opportunity.

Lastly, don’t forget to provide your contact information to ensure you are reachable in case additional questions arise.

Put your best foot forward by personalizing your cover letter closing for maximum impact!

Other ways to use ChatGPT in your job search

ChatGPT very well may revolutionize the job application process, and its benefits can go far beyond creating cover letters. From creating a résumé, to personalizing interview questions, ChatGPT can provide the support you need to make sure that each step is done properly and with intent.

ChatGPT can also support your networking activities by suggesting discussion topics, drafting connection emails, or helping create persuasive talking points that highlight your value proposition. Additionally, ChatGPT can provide useful tips and advice on areas such as interview techniques or résumé building.

Writing a great cover letter is an important step in the job application process. By using AI to write the first draft of your cover letter, you can focus your time on more valuable activities such as researching the company and position, gathering information about your qualifications, and identifying key skills and requirements that align with the job description. Simply edit and customize the initial draft, proofread it for any errors, and then personalize it with a closing statement and your contact information before sending it off. 

Kateri Waltermyer is a career consultant at Boss Mode LLC .

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How to Use ChatGPT to Generate a Cover Letter That Will Actually Get You An Interview

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Searching for a job these days can be overwhelming. There’s so much to do! That’s why many job seekers are now using ChatGPT to generate their cover letters. 

However, there are some common mistakes you need to avoid when using ChatGPT. This guide will help you use this free tool to generate a cover letter that’s a good start for your job search.

Just follow the seven simple steps below and you’ll have a good cover letter in no time!

What is ChatGPT and how does it write a cover letter?

ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence-based tool developed by OpenAI and launched in November 2022. 

ChatGPT works by using natural language processing (NLP) technology to understand what you are trying to write. It then suggests words and sentences you can use to complete your writing.

To use ChatGPT, you first have to provide it with a prompt. A prompt is a form of instruction that tells ChatGPT what to do and how to respond. 

The prompt is crucial when using ChatGPT. This is because it provides context and guidance for the model to generate a relevant response. 

Without a good prompt, ChatGPT will return a vague and generic response.

How to use ChatGPT to write your cover letter

Even if you’ve never used ChatGPT before and aren’t sure how it works, you can quickly generate a cover letter by following the seven steps below. 

If you want an even simpler way to do this, use our automatic cover letter generator . It goes through all seven of these steps within seconds and takes the guesswork out of the whole process.

Watch this brief video to see how it works:

Step 1 – Sign up for ChatGPT

Signing up for ChatGPT is super easy. Go to chat.OpenAi.com and register for an account with an email address, or a Google or Microsoft account.

You’ll then be taken to the homepage, which looks like this:

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

The chat bar at the bottom of the screen is where you type in your prompts.

Now that you’ve seen how easy it is to set up ChatGPT, let’s start using it to write your cover letter!

Step 2 – Begin your prompt

To get started, tell ChatGPT that you need a cover letter. You can also provide some basic information about the job you’re applying for and what you’d like to emphasize in your cover letter.

Here’s an example:

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

You don’t have to provide too much detail about yourself in the opening portion of your prompt. 

That’s the next step!

Step 3 – Provide ChatGPT with a short bio

It’s time to give ChatGPT a little more information about yourself. This will help personalize the cover letter to highlight your unique skills and experience.

Here are some basic pieces of information you should include in your bio:

  • Your name – Start with your full name.
  • Your contact information – Then include your email address, phone number, and address (city and state are fine). 
  • Your professional experience – Summarize the positions you’ve held, the companies you’ve worked for, and any notable accomplishments.
  • Your education – Include your degrees and the institutions you’ve attended.
  • Your skills and qualifications – Focus on those that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Write your short bio directly into the chat bar following your opening paragraph.

Step 4 – Paste in the job description

Now you need to provide ChatGPT with more information about the job you’re applying for.

To do this, simply paste the job description into your prompt, right after your short bio.

The job description will help ChatGPT generate a cover letter that is more ATS-friendly .

ATS stands for “Applicant Tracking System”. This is computer software that most companies use nowadays to help them manage the hiring process.

When you submit your job application it typically goes directly into an ATS database. Hiring managers then search for suitable candidates by typing keywords into the ATS search bar. 

These keywords are related to the job and can include job titles, skills, responsibilities, personal attributes, education level, and more. 

Pro Tip: To generate new lines in ChatGPT without hitting the Enter key (which tells ChatGPT to start generating content) just press the Shift + Enter keys at the same time. 

Where do you find these keywords? In the job description! That’s why you should include it in your prompt. 

When you add the job description, you can include the following sentence:

“Please make sure the cover letter includes the relevant keywords and phrases from this job description to make it ATS-friendly.” 

This will prompt ChatGPT to generate a cover letter that is tailored to the specific job description and optimized for the ATS.

Step 5 – Paste your resume into ChatGPT

The final piece of your prompt should be your resume , which is full of details about your skills, experience, and qualifications.

Just copy and paste the text of your resume into the prompt. 

You may want to explain to ChatGPT that you’re including your resume to help it generate a more personalized cover letter. 

For example, you could say,

“I’m also including my resume for reference [paste resume here]. I want to highlight my experience in developing and executing successful marketing campaigns and showcase my ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.”

You can do ALL of this automatically with Jobscan’s new AI-powered cover letter generator .  

With this tool, you won’t have to worry about writing prompts because they’ve already been engineered into the software. 

Jobcan’s prompts incorporate your resume and the job description to generate a highly personalized cover letter for you with just one click !

Step 6 – Hit the “Enter” key

Once you’ve included all the necessary information in your prompt, it’s time to generate your cover letter! 

All you need to do is hit the “enter” key, and ChatGPT will generate a unique and customized cover letter for you.

It should look something like this:

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

But you’re not done yet!

Step 7 – Fine-tune your ChatGPT cover letter

ChatGPT is a great tool for generating a first draft, but you still need to take the time to review, edit, and fine-tune it. 

You’re not only looking for factual errors and grammatical mistakes, but also to make sure that your cover letter reflects your unique skills, experiences, and personality.

As powerful as ChatGPT is, the content it produces can sometimes sound a bit impersonal.

“As an applicant, you want to stand out from the crowd,” says Bonnie Dilber , recruiting manager at Zapier. “A lot of people are using ChatGPT so if you simply submit what it creates, it’s likely your resume and cover letter will be the same as everyone else.”

Here are some tips for making sure your cover letter has enough YOU in it. 

  • Customize the opening – First impressions are key! Take the time to add a little personality to the beginning of your cover letter. 
  • Make sure your cover letter matches the job description – Re-read the job description to confirm that your letter features the most important skills and requirements for the position. 
  • Emphasize your unique skills and experiences – Your letter should show why you’re the best candidate for the job. 
  • Make it clear and easy to read – Keep your cover letter concise and to the point. Employers receive lots of applications, so make yours easy to read.
  • Adjust the tone if necessary – Formal is appropriate for a corporate setting, while casual might work best for a small start-up.
  • Review for errors and typos – Use grammar checking and proofreading tools to check your work.

You can also try different prompts when fine-tuning your first draft to make it more personalized and targeted.

For example, you might ask  ChatGPT to rewrite your cover letter with more emphasis on your industry experience, your technical skills, or your key qualifications. 

As you work on your cover letter, feel free to create multiple versions of it (make sure to copy and paste them into another document).

There are two advantages to creating multiple versions of your letter:

  • You can combine the best parts of each version to create the perfect cover letter.
  • You’ll get better at using ChatGPT. Remember, the more detailed and specific the prompt, the better the result.

Creating prompts is a skill. Like any skill, it can be learned and improved by practice, practice, practice!

Read more : Cover Letter Examples for Job Seekers in Any Field

Should I use AI in my job search?

Artificial intelligence tools can streamline your job search in many ways. 

They can help you create a resume , write a cover letter , optimize your LinkedIn profile, and craft emails that are tailored to a specific job opening or company. 

AI can also help you find job opportunities that match your skills, qualifications, experience, and preferences. This can make your job search faster and more efficient. 

Jobscan’s resume scanner uses AI technology to show you which skills to include on your resume based on the job you’re applying for. 

And we recently added a new feature that uses GPT-4, the same technology ChatGPT is based on, to generate a personalized cover letter for you.

Key Takeaways

ChatGPT is an AI-based tool developed by OpenAI that can be used to generate a cover letter.

The key to using ChatGPT successfully is to create clear, detailed prompts. These prompts should incorporate your resume and the description of the job you’re applying for.

The cover letter that ChatGPT generates should be considered a first draft . 

You’ll still need to spend time editing and fine-tuning it to make sure it reflects your unique skills, experiences, and personality.

You can do all this manually, or you can automate the entire process using Jobscan’s cover letter generator . 

Powered by AI technology, Jobscan uses industry best practices to create cover letters that will get you more job interviews. It does this by….

  • Analyzing both your resume and the job description.
  • Tailoring each letter to the specific job you’re applying for.
  • Focusing only on the skills you have listed on your resume.
  • Featuring your most relevant accomplishments and measurable results.
  • Creating a cover letter that is keyword-rich and ATS-friendly.
  • Organizing all your cover letters in one place for easy access.

As with any AI tool, we recommend that you still take the time to review and customize it before sending it off.  

With Jobscan’s cover letter generator , you’ll be able to get a quality cover letter while avoiding many of the mistakes others make by doing it alone.

More expert insights on this topic:

webp_thumb

6 Common Mistakes Job Seekers Make When Using ChatGPT To Generate Cover Letters

webp_thumb

Should You Actually Use ChatGPT to Generate Your Cover Letter? (11 Pros and Cons)

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Write an ATS Cover Letter Recruiters Actually Read

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Robert Henderson, CPRW, is a career advice writer and a resume expert at Jobscan.

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Microsoft 365 Life Hacks > Writing > Using ChatGPT to write resumes and cover letters

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.

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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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21 ChatGPT Prompts to Get You to Start Writing Your Cover Letter

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In This Guide:

Is it ethical to use chatgpt to write your cover letter, six cover letter structures to experiment with, how to use chatgpt for cover letter writing, using chatgpt to write various sections of your cover letter, edit your cover letter writing style with this chatgpt prompt, three different cover letters based on seniority, key takeaways.

Sorting through hundreds of applications for that most coveted role of Senior Network Engineer, you've found three candidates that fit the bill.

All have the relevant experience, yet:

  • the first submitted just a resume;
  • the second - an impersonal cover letter, solely written by the likes of an AI (e.g. ChatGPT);
  • the third candidate has taken the time to study your organization and to align it with their unique skill set.

Highlighting that all three candidates have the same amount of experience...

...wouldn't a well-written cover letter sort of bias you to choose the one that shows the most care (and in some cases - enthusiasm) toward the job and company?

If you're applying for a job, hear us out!

The cover letter isn't just a professional narrative , but the greatest asset to demonstrate your:

  • unique value and how your skills match the job;
  • interest in the company and role;
  • confidence in your abilities.

Your cover letter allows you to shape how your potential employers see your experience. It further highlights what you want them to remember from your resume .

Checklist: Pros to including a cover letter

Checklist: downsides to cover letter writing.

The choice of writing a cover letter is entirely up to you.

But here's where an ethical question comes in.

What if you simply can't write your cover letter (and can't afford to hire an experienced cover letter writer to help you out)? And you don't have an AI resume builder tool to create it for you, based on your resume?

Would using ChatGPT to your advantage be counted as "cheating"?

You've probably been living under a rock for the past six months or so if you haven't heard of ChatGPT (Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer).

The free language model can supposedly do anything: from debugging codes to pointing out interesting destinations around you.

ChatGPT works as so: you write a prompt (a well-formulated, clear, and concise question or instructions). Within a few seconds, the AI chatbot provides you with a response to your query.

What is more, candidates have been using ChatGPT to restructure their resumes, prepare for interviews, and even write cover letters.

This guide will precisely focus on giving you the know-how of using ChatGPT for your cover letter with:

  • Beginners luck: six structures to get to know the writing process;
  • The most concise cover letter writing prompt;
  • How to align your cover letter to the job;
  • More advanced ChatGPT writing prompts for separate cover letter sections;
  • Matching the style of the job advert to your cover letter…

… and so much more!

To answer the ethics question of writing a cover letter with ChatGPT, we’ve found a viral story for you.

One that presents you with the biggest “don’t”. Ever.

How not to write a cover letter with ChatGPT

Mandy Tang, a career coach and business owner, was sorting through job applications when she stumbled across a cover letter that covered every single one of her requirements.

"The letter was really well-formed, incredibly well-written, and had literally everything I wanted. But then I looked closer and realized it was just a copy and paste of everything I had put in the job description.”

Mandy Tang, career coach, and business owner

Tang decided to check with ChatGPT what the case was. She pasted in her job advert and told the chatbot to write a cover letter for it.

ChatGPT then regurgitated her requirements: word for word.

So, here's the moral of the story.

If you want to use ChatGPT to help you write a cover letter, be prepared with as much relevant information (including your resume) to get writing. Either copy and paste your resume or use a dedicated AI resume builder to create your cover letters.

Don't just copy-paste the advert in and expect the chatbot to work its magic.

How do you differentiate a well-written cover letter from a generic one?

The truth is that excellent cover letters are like diamonds in the rough.

Candidates use them to tell quick stories without diving too much into the nitty-gritty details.

Checklist: Before you start writing your cover letter, prepare

Cover letters' main purpose is to catch recruiters' interests by finding the balance between:

  • dedicated cover letter space and filler words/ language;
  • key skills or achievements without repeating candidate resumes;
  • showing authentic interest in the role while highlighting job keywords;
  • being specific and personable, yet ticking all the requirement boxes by allowing recruiters to imagine what the candidates' potential would be if they joined the company.

Attaining that level of perfection in cover letter writing sometimes seems impossible.

Here's where the role of ChatGPT comes in.

To kick off this cover letter/ChatGPT writing exercise, we've prepared six structures for you to experiment with.

The end goal is evident: for you to find the one that matches both your experience and the organization you're applying for best.

Without further ado, discover the:

Standardized cover letter prompt

The structure outline commences with a paragraph, where you'd introduce yourself, mention the role you're applying for, and how you've learned about it.

In the next paragraphs, you’d highlight relevant skills , experience , or accomplishments . Ones that align with the job requirements .

The next paragraph would focus on how you can help the company grow.

Sign off with a paragraph about how excited you are for the role and/or company, and thank hiring managers for their time.

Here's the prompt to get you writing:

I want you to act as a cover letter writer. I'd like you to help me write a cover letter that consists of three paragraphs and follows this standardized structure. In the first paragraph, mention the role I'm applying for [Senior Architect] and that I've learned about it [from a friend who works at the company]. Use the next paragraph to highlight any of my relevant skills, experiences, or accomplishments that align with the job. The third and final paragraph should sign off with my excitement for the role. I'd also like to thank the recruiters for their time in assessing my resume and how I look forward to the next stages of the process. Ensure that the cover letter uses professional language and tone and follows industry best practice examples. If you've understood the assessment, can I please paste in my resume?

ChatGPT would next provide you with a template cover letter that follows this structure, which you could edit.

Certainly, I'd be happy to help you write a cover letter for the Senior Architect position. Please feel free to paste in your resume so I can review it and tailor the cover letter accordingly.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to apply for the Senior Architect position that I learned about from a friend who works at your esteemed organization. With my extensive experience in the field of architecture, I am confident that I have the skills and expertise required to excel in this role.

As a seasoned architect with over 10 years of experience, I have had the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects, including commercial and residential buildings, public infrastructure, and urban planning. My experience has given me a deep understanding of the design process, from initial concept to final construction, as well as an ability to communicate effectively with clients and stakeholders at all levels. I am also well-versed in the latest architectural software and tools, including AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit, which have enabled me to produce high-quality designs and renderings.

I am excited about the opportunity to apply my skills and experience to the Senior Architect position at your organization. I believe that my expertise in architecture and design, as well as my ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and clients, make me an ideal candidate for this role.

Thank you for considering my application for the Senior Architect position. I appreciate the time you have taken to assess my resume, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further with you.

[Your Name]

But to go one step further, paste in your resume:

Architect   Commercial Buildings resume example

And, voilà:

Architect   Commercial Buildings resume example

Of course, this isn't the final version of your cover letter. You'll need to tweak the role you're applying for. But it's a pretty good starting point.

2. Best candidate structure

This cover letter structure is more focused on the specific job you’d be applying for and showcasing to recruiters why they should choose you.

I want you to act as a cover letter writer. I'd like you to help me write a cover letter that consists of three paragraphs and follows this structure. In the first paragraph, highlight details about the company and give specific reasons as to why I'm interested in joining it. Use the next paragraph to highlight any of my relevant skills, experiences, or accomplishments that align with the job. The third and final paragraph should once again highlight why I'm a good fit for the company culture and role. Ensure that the cover letter uses professional language and tone and follows industry best practice examples. Make sure that it's not longer than three paragraphs. If you've understood the assessment, can I please paste in my resume?

Next, paste in your resume and the job advert itself to get a more personalized cover letter for the role.

Here’s my resume: [paste in your whole experience, strengths, achievements, etc.]

Here’s the job I’m applying for: [paste in everything in the job requirements]

The first cover letter ChatGPT produced was a bit too long.

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Senior Architect position within your Sports Team at AECOM. I was impressed by your firm's commitment to delivering sustainable and equitable solutions that improve communities, as well as your dedication to fostering a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. As a Senior Architect with over 10 years of experience in designing commercial and residential buildings, I am excited to apply my skills and knowledge to help your team achieve its goals.

Throughout my career, I have developed expertise in CAD and 3D design, BIM software, and project management. I have designed the initial structures of 20+ commercial buildings valued between $15-50 million and managed the realization and construction of 15+ commercial buildings, coordinating a total of 150+ people. Additionally, I have developed building information models using Revit and mentored junior architects in designing major government buildings. My experience in negotiating alternative solutions with stakeholders, stepping in for the lead architect, and planning budgets up to $100M highlights my leadership, negotiation, and budget planning skills.

As a Senior Architect within your Sports Team, I am confident that I can contribute to the development of solutions to complex technical problems in sports-related projects and other public and private sector projects. I am adept at managing multiple projects at various stages of development, ensuring that project teams meet quality, schedule, contractual, and budget goals. My ability to maintain project records and files, review construction documents for compliance with client/project requirements, and lead in the management and preparation of proposals for architectural projects including the development of work effort estimates demonstrates my attention to detail, communication skills, and ability to provide leadership and mentorship of staff and internal project teams.

I am excited about the opportunity to grow my career with AECOM through your technical and professional development programs and diverse career opportunities. As an architect with a strong commitment to sustainability and a dedication to providing clients with personal spaces that meet their needs, I believe I would be an excellent fit for AECOM's mission and values. I am looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to your team and work with a global network of experts who are leading the change toward a more sustainable and equitable future.

Thank you for considering my application. I am available for an interview at your convenience and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

That’s why we asked the chatbot to shorten the cover letter using this prompt:

Can you make this cover letter be a bit shorter?

What do you think of ChatGPT’s final writing:

Architect   Commercial Buildings resume example

3. Narrative

This is one of the most exciting cover letter outlines out there. Yet, the cover letter is an exercise of focusing more on skill alignment and the organization you’re applying for, than yourself.

We’d recommend you use the narrative structure for instances where the job advert is very much value focused on soft skills and character fit.

Now, it’s story time!

I want you to act as a cover letter writer. I'd like you to help me write a cover letter that consists of three paragraphs and follows this storytelling structure. In the first paragraph, introduce my professional background that is relevant to the job of [3D Artist]. Use the next paragraph to share a relevant story from my experience that demonstrates my skills, experience, or personal qualities. Explain how this story relates to the job requirements. Sum up the cover letter with a paragraph about why I'm a great fit for the role, in terms of skills and enthusiasm for the industry. Use professional language and tone, but at the same time keep this cover letter compact. Follow some best industry practices. If you've understood the task, can I please paste in my resume?

Architect   Commercial Buildings resume example

The prompt we’ve provided you with is a bit generic. If you want to go for the gold:

  • jot down a few details for ChatGPT about the storyline you want to tell with your experience;
  • focus on an industry-wide challenge that you’ve overcome via your experience;
  • think about the narrative which would impress recruiters the most and include it in the prompt.

Feel free to edit and add to this ChatGPT prompt, so that your cover letter turns into a real modern-day professional fairy tale.

3. Solution

This framework allows you to present to potential employers your problem-solving skills from the get-go.

It's a very good one for more technical roles.

Here's the prompt you could use:

I want you to act as a cover letter writer. I'd like you to use the following problem-solving structure to write the cover letter. I'll provide you with both the job advert and my resume. In the first paragraph, mention one specific challenge that this company may face, which the role can solve. The next paragraph should focus on how up to three skills and one of my past professional roles make me the perfect candidate to resolve this problem. Finalize with more information about why I'm the perfect candidate for the role. Use professional language and tone, but at the same time keep this cover letter compact. Follow the best cover letter writing practices. If you've understood the task, can I please paste in my resume?

Expert technology leader with 10+ years of experience in scaling successful startups resume example

After a shortener prompt, here’s the final result that ChatGPT produced:

Expert technology leader with 10+ years of experience in scaling successful startups resume example

This structure is one of the most prominent and useful ones for you. It’d focus on a tailored sales pitch to the role you’re applying for.

I want you to act as a cover letter writer. I'd like you to use the following skill-based structure to write the cover letter. List between 3–5 skills from my experience that are relevant to the job. Use my resume to provide brief examples of how I've used those particular skills in the past. Make sure to include both technical and soft skills. Keep this cover letter to be compact with a maximum of four paragraphs. Use professional language and tone. Follow the best cover letter writing practices. If you've understood the task, can I please paste in both my resume and the job advert?

Expert technology leader with 10+ years of experience in scaling successful startups resume example

3. T-Format

The T-format cover letter writing structure matches individual job requirements and keywords with resume experience items.

I want you to act as a cover letter writer. I'd like you to use the following T-format structure to write the cover letter. I'll provide you with both the job advert and my resume. Make this cover letter no more than five paragraphs long. List the job requirements or key skills mentioned in the job posting within the left column. In the right column, provide my provide corresponding experiences and qualifications. Use professional language and tone, while following the best cover letter writing practices. If you've understood the task, can I please paste in both my resume and the job advert?

It provides you with a very structured and easy-to-read end result:

Expert technology leader with 10+ years of experience in scaling successful startups resume example

These six structures are a good starting point for writing your cover letter. Of course, the more personalized prompts you provide to ChatGPT, the better the end results would be.

You’d ultimately need to tweak the text - here and there - but this chatbot provides you with excellent food for thought.

Moving on, within the next part of our guide, we’ll look at how the chatbot could help you write more specific cover letter sections.

The full prompt experience

Okay, so maybe you're struggling with the whole cover letter writing process and need help asap from ChatGPT.

Once again, this is your reminder not to solely rely on technology to write your cover letter. Instead, use it as a starting point to get writing.

Here's a very useful prompt for you.

I want you to act as a cover letter writer. I will provide you with the job advert and my resume. Use this information to create a professional and effective cover letter. Focus the cover letter to be written using the best practices and industry standards. Tailor the cover letter's content to the specific job and company that I am applying to, highlighting my relevant skills and experience. Also, make sure to explain why I am a strong candidate for the position. Please ensure that the cover letter is clear and concise. The cover letter should have appropriate formatting and layout to make it visually appealing and easy to read. Do make sure that it effectively communicates my qualifications and interest in the job. Finally, don't include any personal opinions or statements. I'll first provide you with my resume, then the job advert. Is that okay?

–  Read the full ChatGPT conversation here

When pasting in your resume, make sure to include all relevant sections, including

CCXP Certified UX/UI Designer resume example

Once again, make sure to include all the relevant items in the job advert.

Here's what ChatGPT came up with:

CCXP Certified UX/UI Designer resume example

It's a pretty good effort, but if you're writing a cover letter, you need to go above and beyond.

That means as a rule of thumb, you can surely take what ChatGPT has written for you. But you need to personalize it further to show your character and what makes you stand out.

Aligning resume and job advert

The cursor has been blinking like crazy for the past 20 minutes in your Word document. Looking down at the status bar, the word count is still zero.

You have so much you want to say about yourself, the job, and the company. Yet, your mind is like that blank page in front of you.

From where do you start writing your cover letter?

The first stage of the process is research.

The best candidates don't just go on and on about how skillful they are in Python and/or C++.

But rather - their cover letters show recruiters how their visions and the company's ones for the future align.

Remember: your cover letter is never solely about you, but what you'd bring to the company.

This is one of the most useful ChatGPT prompts to get you writing: discovering how your resume answers the company's pain points.

The experience-job advert alignment prompt

Here's the prompt we've used:

I want you to act as a cover letter writer. I will provide you with information about the job I am applying for and my relevant skills and experience. You will help me discover two things. The first - which areas of my expertise align with the job I'm applying for? The second - what skills would I need to highlight in my cover letter to make a good first impression? Is that understood?

Once you get the good to go from ChatGPT, it's time to paste your resume.

 resume example

Checklist: In this case, Andrew Clark's resume:

ChatGPT has a bad tendency to fill in the gaps by fabricating any missing information. So, make sure you've pasted in all the information that's relevant to your application.

Next, you have to paste in the job advert. Once again, the more information you can provide to ChatGPT, the better the assessment will be.

We've provided the Senior Business Intelligence Analyst role in full by including:

  • Key responsibilities
  • Proven characteristics for success
  • Personal traits
  • Qualifications (both the must-have and the preferred ones)
  • Any additional information (about both the company and its offer to candidates)

Asking ChatGPT if the role suits your experience is always a good idea. Here’s what the chatbot told us about Andrew Clark’s resume:

Overall, your experience and skills position you well for the role of a Business Intelligence Analyst. Your cover letter should showcase your relevant experience and highlight your technical and interpersonal skills, as well as your passion for learning and personal attributes that make you a good fit for the company culture.

Find out more about the chatbot's assessment.

It started listing all the crucial requirements for the role that align with the candidate's experience. Those included:

  • data analysis
  • visualization skills
  • collecting requirements
  • defining reporting standards
  • creating dashboards.

Into the specifics, ChatGPT looked into technical skills that it recommends being integrated within the cover letter.

Technical skills that matched the Senior Business Intelligence Analyst role are:

  • dealing with large datasets;
  • building advanced dashboards with BI tools (e.g. Tableau Desktop);
  • data modeling experience;
  • SQL and/or Python;
  • experience with ETL (e.g. Alteryx).

ChatGPT didn't disappoint with key soft skills either.

The main ones it told us to focus on (based on priority):

  • working collaboratively to develop reliable, robust, and self-serve reporting;
  • curiosity and passion for learning;
  • ability to see the big picture;
  • operating with a bias toward action and ownership;
  • ability to build lasting and meaningful relationships;
  • commitment to quality;
  • cultural awareness.

BONUS alignment prompt

Next, we decided to dive deeper into the skills' alignment with this prompt:

Could you be more specific about the skills' alignment between my resume and the job advert? Which ones do you think would be a good idea to focus on, based on my current professional experience?

ChatGPT wanted us to focus on these four crucial areas to land the job:

  • Data analysis and modeling: preparing budgets, variance analysis, identifying collaboration opportunities, and data modeling (data and platform integrations).
  • Reporting and visualization: creating dashboards and reports; BI tools (e.g. Tableau Desktop).
  • Collaboration and communication: working across functions, leadership, and communication across the board.
  • Technical skills: SQL, Python, ETL tools.

One final tip from ChatGPT:

In your cover letter, it would be beneficial to focus on your experience with data analysis and modeling, as well as your technical skills, especially your proficiency with BI tools and your knowledge of SQL and/or Python. Additionally, you should highlight your collaboration and communication skills, especially your ability to work across functions and lead teams to achieve shared outcomes.

ChatGPT could help you start writing your cover letter with ideas of areas you can focus on.

What if you happen to have some experience in cover letter writing and just want to improve your cover letter?

ChatGPT is the perfect assistant that can do that for you.

This next section of our guide is specifically for those more advanced writers. It'll show you how to tailor individual cover letter sections.

Ultimately allowing you to have more control over what ChatGPT writes, while injecting more of your personal style.

Use these prompts to tweak individual sections of your cover letter.

Cover letter introduction and first paragraph

You could use ChatGPT to help you write about…

Something that impressed you about the company

Within the prompt, mention the role you're applying for and the company. You could also specify the tone of voice and your cover letter introduction length.

One of the most important and personalized elements you need to include is what you actually like about the company.

Be honest and as specific as you can possibly be when presenting ChatGPT with the instructions.

Here’s an effective prompt and cover letter introduction by ChatGPT:

Let's build a cover letter introduction for me. I'm a [lawyer, applying for a litigator at Johnson, Johnson & Johnson].

I want to create a custom, authentic, and enthusiastic cover letter introduction of 50 words or less. I want to show that I am genuinely attracted to the company’s brand and have used or followed their products or services before.

A former colleague that referred you to this job

Referencing a colleague is a great starting point for building authentic trust between recruiters and yourself.

Apart from the generic details about the role you're applying for, you could also provide ChatGPT with instructions about

  • words it needs to avoid;
  • tone of voice;
  • introduction length;
  • projects you've collaborated on with your former colleague;
  • give recognition to the colleague that recommended you.

Check out this prompt:

Let's build a cover letter introduction for me. I'm [a lawyer, applying for a litigator at Johnson, Johnson & Johnson]. I want to create a custom, authentic, and enthusiastic cover letter introduction of 50 words or fewer. I was referred to this job by [a former colleague, Kathryn Hydefield], so mention that connection in my cover letter.

Consider the following as well:

- Avoid using extreme words like “greatest” or “best”

- Show excitement and gratitude

- Keep it brief and let the recommendation speak for itself

- Mention a project you've worked on together previously

- Mention the good intentions of the person recommending you

This is a great starting point, but you'll need to fill in all relevant details.

Your motivations for applying to this job

Perhaps you'd like to start the cover letter with some information about your interest in the role.

ChatGPT can help you restructure your thoughts (and subsequently interest) with this prompt:

Let's build a cover letter introduction for me. I'm [a lawyer, applying for a litigator at Johnson, Johnson & Johnson]. I want to create a custom, authentic, and enthusiastic cover letter introduction of 50 words or less. Please do focus on the reason why I'm applying for the role: [that I'm interested in applying my experience in a more global company].

A great achievement

In some cases, you'll want to kick off your cover letter with one of your greatest achievements.

Style it up with ChatGPT:

Let's build a cover letter introduction for me. I'm a lawyer, applying for [a litigator at Johnson, Johnson & Johnson]. I want to create a custom, authentic, and enthusiastic cover letter introduction of 50 words or less. Write a stand-out opening paragraph that leads with an impressive achievement and features quantifiable results.

Want to make ChatGPT’s job an even easier one?

Prepare in advance your greatest/ most impressive achievement with details of what you’ve achieved.

If the end results are supported by data, you’ll turn into the ultimate cover letter rock star.

Something newsworthy

Maybe the most impressive item of your career is that national award you won last year, recognizing your contributions to string theory research. Or, perhaps, your client feedback remains at a steady AVG of 98%.

Kick off your cover letter with this "newsworthy" ChatGPT prompt:

Let's build a cover letter introduction for me. I'm a lawyer, applying for [a litigator at Johnson, Johnson & Johnson]. I want to create a custom, authentic, and enthusiastic cover letter introduction of 50 words or less. Write a stand-out opening paragraph that mentions something newsworthy (e.g. an award or recognition) and what its implications are to the role or industry.

Your vision

Cover letters are usually about alignment between individuals and the company they’re applying for.

Stating how your ambitions and vision for the future correspond with the company’s ones can open many doors for you.

Let's build a cover letter introduction for me. I'm a [lawyer, applying for a litigator at Johnson, Johnson & Johnson]. I want to create a custom, authentic, and enthusiastic cover letter introduction of 50 words or less. Write a stand-out opening paragraph that mentions how my ambitions for the role align with the company's ones.

All of these six prompts can help you sort the information that you’d like to talk about.

But don’t solely rely on ChatGPT - you have all the talents and skills to present yourself.

Middle paragraphs of your cover letter

Now that you have the intro written, it's time to look at the body of your cover letter.

What these middle paragraphs aim to show is:

  • that you've done your homework about the company;
  • that you have the relevant skills and experience ;
  • how you'll help the company succeed, based on your past successes.

Here are three useful prompts you can tailor and experiment with.

1. The research prompt

You know the company; you love the company. What is more, the role you're applying for is precisely what you're looking for.

Want to formulate this more professionally in the body of your cover letter?

I want you to act as a cover letter copywriter. I'm a [junior .net developer], applying for a [.net developer at Tesla]. Help me write the middle paragraphs of the cover letter, which should be no more than 100 words long. Make sure the tone is professional and shows my enthusiasm for the opportunity. Please focus the body of the cover letter on information about the company and why this role would be perfect for me.

2. Highlighting relevant skills, qualifications, and experience

This is one of the biggest questions recruiters are looking to have answered while reading your cover letter:

Do you have the right skills for the job, right now?

ChatGPT can help you communicate this across:

I'm a [communication officer], applying for a [project manager role at Home Depot]. Key skills for the role include [communication and partnership management; meeting project deadlines; and applying the Agile framework to attain results]. I want you to act as a cover letter writer and help me write the middle paragraphs of the cover letter. They should be no more than 100 words long and should sound professional and enthusiastic. One of the most important things to achieve in this section is to highlight the alignment between my experience with those three crucial skills for the role.

When listing this prompt, be specific about the key skill requirements and your experience.

If you want to go above and beyond, you could paste in your resume and the job advert, as we did in the previous sections of this guide.

The new prompt would follow the style of that above and end with something along the lines of:

… I'll first paste in my resume and then the job advert for you. Is that okay?

Once you get the “good-to-go” from ChatGPT, paste in all relevant information and watch the magic happen right before your eyes.

3. Forward-facing

The future is the ultimate sales pitch of your experience.

Rather than focusing just on your strengths, you’d present recruiters with what they’d ultimately get if they hire you.

I'm [an Amazon PPC expert], looking to land a role as [an Amazon Account Manager]. I want you to help me write the body of my cover letter, which should be no more than 100 words long. Make it sound amicable, professional, and enthusiastic. Focus these paragraphs on how my ambitions align with those of [Amazon]. Also, how my unique skill set would bring in success to the company.

Ending of a cover letter and ChatGPT

One of the best ways to end your cover letter is with a promise.

Either of what you'd bring to the table or how this opportunity would help you grow.

Here are the best two prompts you can use to finish off your cover letter with a snap:

I want you to help me write the final sentence of my cover letter. It should be no more than 50 words long, and should sound professional and engaging. Let the sentence show how I'd help [Sears' sales department] grow.

I want you to help me write the final sentence of my cover letter. It should be no more than 50 words long, and should sound professional and engaging. Let the sentence show how the role of [data analyst at Google] would grow my professional skills and abilities.

This is one of the greatest prompts of all time - let’s say you’ve your cover letter is already complete, but you’re applying to a smaller company.

You’d need to fix the language to sound more easily accessible to the recruiters.

ChatGPT can do that for you:

Can you help me adjust the tone of my cover letter? I've currently written one that it's more professional. I want it to sound more friendly, as I'll be applying for a role within a [startup]. I'll first provide you with my initial cover letter. Is that alright?

You’d next provide your cover letter:

QA Engineer/Test Analyst resume example

And in just a few seconds, you’d receive:

QA Engineer/Test Analyst resume example

Checklist: This style prompt could come in handy for you if you’re tailoring your cover letter for a/ an:

Including as much as possible from the relevant information would really help ChatGPT tailor and re-write your cover letter.

Of course, we can’t end this guide without providing you with a few more concrete examples of using ChatGPT to write your cover letter.

So here’s what we were able to produce with the help of the chatbot for

Entry-Level Candidate Cover Letter Example

I want you to act as a cover letter writer. I will provide you with just my resume - I'm an entry-level professional, looking for experience in [Engineering]. Could you please help me write my cover letter?

Entry Level Engineer resume example

Mid-Career Level Cover Letter

I'm a [Cisco Certified System Administrator] in the middle of my career. I'm currently looking for a change of pace. I'll provide you with my resume, so you could help me write a cover letter for my mid-career move. The cover letter should be no more than four paragraphs long, sounding ambitious and professional. Use best cover letter writing practices to attain the wanted results. Is it okay if I share my resume with you?

Cisco Certified System Administrator resume example

C-Level Exectuve Cover Letter

I'm a CEO currently on the lookout for new opportunities. Once I provide you with my resume, please help me write a cover letter for more senior opportunities. The cover letter should be no more than four paragraphs long, sounding ambitious, professional, yet down to earth. Use best cover letter writing practices to attain the wanted results. Is it okay if I share my resume with you?

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How to Write Your Cover Letter Using ChatGPT

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ChatGPT is growing in popularity as artificial intelligence’s go-to for content generation. You probably have seen courses and other programs designed to help you leverage this new platform and are curious about its benefits.

Access to a platform that can create a cohesive document can be a godsend to people who dislike writing. While ChatGPT can help you increase your efficiency, you still have to review the documents it generates to ensure your cover letter gets noticed.

1. Open Your ChatGPT Account

Screenshot of ChatGPT homepage (updated)

You can easily create one if you don’t already have an account. Go to the site chat.openai.com . Once you’re there, you’ll see a prompt to open your account or sign up. You can create a new account with your choice of email, including connecting it to an existing Gmail account.

You’ll need access to your mobile phone since you’ll receive a six-digit code sent to your phone via text to confirm your registration. Once you’ve confirmed your registration, you’re ready to get started.

When you’re in ChatGPT, you’ll see you can stay with the free version, ChatGPT 3.5, or pay for access to ChatGPT 4. The features of ChatGPT-4 include faster responses and access to beta features like code interpreter, plug-ins, and browsing.

ChatGPT-4 has a limit of 25 messages every three hours, costing $20 monthly. If you’re wondering what other artificial intelligence options exist besides ChatGPT, you might be interested in learning about the best alternatives to ChatGPT .

2. Enter Your Custom Instructions

Screenshot of Custom Instructions for freelance writing cover letter

Before you ask ChatGPT to write content for you, you need to provide custom instructions to the platform. You do this in the custom instructions; you can access it by clicking on your name.

There are two sections where you input information about yourself. The first one asks: What would you like ChatGPT to know about you to provide better responses? The second one asks: How would you like ChatGPT to respond?

The first section is where you can tell the platform where you live, what you currently do for work, your goals, and your interests. The second section is where you can talk about the tone and length of ChatGPT’s responses.

You can change the custom instructions at any time, but it will only affect the answers given after the changes are made. If you’re new to the platform, you may ask: What is ChatGPT and what can you do with generative AI? . We recommend checking out that guide if you're not too sure.

3. Submit a Job Description

Screenshot of job description provided to ChatGPT

Once you’ve completed your custom instructions, it’s time to provide a job description that ChatGPT can refer to when creating your cover letter. Remember, the key to writing an effective cover letter is addressing all the critical needs indicated in the job description.

If you’re using the free ChatGPT 3.5 version of the platform, there’s no limit to the number of jobs you can ask it to write cover letters for! You can also ask the platform to regenerate the response if you don’t like the first one you get.

You may be wondering what ChatGPT means for the future of writers and if it means enormous unemployment lines are in your future. You might find some comfort in learning the reasons why ChatGPT won’t take your writing job .

4. Prompt ChatGPT to Write the Elements of Your Cover Letter

Once you’ve submitted the job description, the next step is to ask for a cover letter. Instead of asking it to write one document, you can ask it to focus on each part of your cover letter to create a more focused one.

The Introductory Paragraph

Screenshot of introductory paragraph by ChatGPT

The first paragraph is where you provide basic details about who you are and why you want the job. You can also give a general overview of why you’re the right candidate for the job and why the position excites you.

Your Qualifications

Screenshot of summary of qualifications by ChatGPT

The next part of your cover letter summarizes your experience and qualifications and how they apply to the job you’re applying for. This is where you can include stories about relevant projects or situations to give the hiring manager or recruiter some insight into how you work.

Explain How You Align With the Company’s Values and Goals

Screenshot of aligning with values and goals of organization by ChatGPT

In this section of your cover letter, you want to illustrate that you understand the company’s mission and have done your research on the company. You want to focus on how your goals align with the organization’s, and you can also include positive factors you’ve heard about the company culture.

Close With a Call to Action

Screenshot of closing paragraph with call to action by ChatGPT

Your closing paragraph should be where you recap your interest in the job and suggest the next steps for proceeding with your application. Thank the reader for reviewing your application and indicating your interest in discussing the position or scheduling an interview.

This is where you can focus on the talents and skills you hope to bring to the team. If you want to learn more about the platform’s capabilities and how to generate the proper prompts, you may be interested in learning ways to learn how to write effective ChatGPT prompts for the best AI answers .

5. Proofread and Review the Generated Cover Letter

Image of a math mistake

After the AI generates the different parts of your cover letter, you can put them together and read it out loud to see if it makes sense.

Use the content ChatGPT generates as the foundation of your cover letter. You can add elements that add a personal touch to the cover letter, giving the reader an idea about your personality.

The content generated by ChatGPT can help you create a cover letter focused on what the organization hiring you is looking for. It would be best to remember that the platform is available to everyone, and you’re probably not the only one using it to help them apply for the job.

This is why adding what makes you unique to the letter ChatGPT generates can be a vital part of using the platform for job applications and getting noticed. If you enjoy using the platform, you may be interested in learning about the amazing ChatGPT Chrome extensions for better AI prompts and answers in browsers .

Work Smarter, Not Harder With ChatGPT

Using ChatGPT can help you work more efficiently, increasing your productivity. You can use AI to generate documents as the foundation for any written content you’re working on.

Whether you’re looking for help writing a resume or cover letter, AI can help you quickly generate them. Using the content “as is” isn’t recommended, but making changes and corrections is more manageable than creating original content on your own and can help ensure that you touch on the key points the reader is looking for.

  • Work & Career

Write a Cover Letter with ChatGPT

Introduction.

Welcome to this guide on creating a standout cover letter with the help of ChatGPT, tailored for job seekers looking to make a strong impression in the competitive job market. In the age of digital applications, a well-crafted cover letter is not just a formality—it’s an opportunity to showcase your personality, explain your motivations, and highlight the key skills that make you the perfect fit for the job. And now, with the power of AI, you can elevate your cover letter to new heights.

In this tutorial, we will guide you through using ChatGPT to draft a cover letter that resonates with employers. We will cover how to align your skills and experiences with the job description and how to use ChatGPT to help you articulate your professional narrative compellingly.

Whether you’re applying for your first job, seeking a career change, or looking to land your dream position, mastering the art of the cover letter is crucial. With our expert tips and ChatGPT’s capabilities, you’ll be ready to create a document that not only passes the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) scan but also captures the attention of hiring managers.

Let’s dive in and start the journey to your next great opportunity!

Understanding the Basics of a Cover Letter

Before we harness the power of AI to craft your cover letter, it’s essential to grasp the foundational elements that make up this critical document. A cover letter is more than just an introduction to your resume, it’s your chance to tell a compelling story about who you are, what you offer, and why you’re the ideal candidate for the role.

Purpose of a Cover Letter: The primary goal of a cover letter is to personalize your job application, showcasing how your unique combination of skills, experiences, and passion aligns with the position and the company’s culture and objectives.

Structure and Content: A standard cover letter is structured in a way that flows naturally and logically, typically including the following elements:

Heading: This includes your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact details.

Salutation: Whenever possible, address the letter to a specific person. “Dear Hiring Manager” is a suitable alternative if a name isn’t available.

Opening Paragraph: This is your hook. Start with a strong opening statement that grabs attention and sets the stage for your application.

Body Paragraphs: Here, you discuss your relevant skills and experiences. Tie your background directly to the job requirements and company values.

Closing Paragraph: Reaffirm your interest in the role and state your enthusiasm for a personal interview. This is also where you can mention any attachments or portfolios.

Sign-off: End your cover letter with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely,” followed by your name.

Tone and Language: The tone should be professional yet conversational. While you want to show respect and formality, it’s also important to let your personality shine through. Avoid jargon and overly complex language that might obscure your message.

Customization: One size does not fit all. Tailoring your cover letter to each position and company is crucial. Research the company, understand the job posting, and reflect on how your background uniquely positions you to meet their needs and contribute to their success.

Length: Brevity is key. Aim for a single page with three to four concise paragraphs. Your goal is to convey enough compelling information to intrigue the hiring manager and secure an interview.

You’ve laid the groundwork for a stellar cover letter. In the following sections, we’ll guide you through leveraging ChatGPT to maximize the impact of each of these components, ensuring your cover letter not only meets the standard but sets a new one.

Interacting with ChatGPT for Cover Letter Assistance

Crafting a cover letter can seem like a daunting task, but with ChatGPT, you have a partner in the process. Here’s how to interact effectively with ChatGPT to receive the best assistance in creating a cover letter that stands out.

Initiating the Conversation: Start by clearly stating your request. For example, “I need help writing a cover letter for a software engineering position.” Be as specific as possible about the job and your relevant experiences.

Providing Information: Share key details with ChatGPT, such as:

  • The job description you’re applying for.
  • Personal skills and experiences that match the job requirements.
  • Any unique traits or accomplishments that set you apart.
  • The company’s culture and values, and how you align with them.

Structured Queries: Break down your cover letter into sections and tackle them one by one with ChatGPT. For instance, ask for help with an opening paragraph that highlights your enthusiasm for the role, or request suggestions for showcasing your experience in body paragraphs.

Feedback and Refinement: After receiving suggestions, don’t be afraid to ask for revisions or more examples. If something doesn’t quite fit your voice or the message you want to convey, discuss it with ChatGPT to fine-tune the content.

Specificity and Detail: The more specific you can be with your requests, the better ChatGPT can tailor its assistance. For example, instead of asking for a “good closing paragraph,” you could say, “Help me write a closing paragraph that invites the hiring manager to discuss how my cybersecurity expertise can benefit the company’s cloud infrastructure challenges.”

Polishing Your Draft: Once you have a complete draft, use ChatGPT to help with proofreading. You can ask for grammar checks, suggestions for stronger word choices, or even tips for ensuring the tone is consistent throughout the document.

Iterative Process: Remember that writing is a process. Use ChatGPT to iterate on your cover letter, incorporating feedback or new insights you’ve gathered about the job or your own qualifications as you go.

Practice and Learn: Take the opportunity to learn from the interaction. If ChatGPT uses a term or suggests a format you’re unfamiliar with, ask about it. This can be an invaluable learning experience that enhances your writing skills beyond just the cover letter at hand.

By following these steps, you will be able to leverage ChatGPT’s capabilities to produce a cover letter that not only presents your qualifications effectively but also captures your personal voice and professional ethos. The result should be a cover letter that resonates with recruiters and sets the stage for your successful job application.

Customizing Your Cover Letter with ChatGPT

A cover letter must be a tailored narrative that presents you as the ideal candidate for a specific role. ChatGPT can help customize your cover letter to make a compelling case to potential employers. Here’s how to achieve this personalization effectively.

Aligning with the Job Description:

  • Input the job description into ChatGPT and ask it to identify key skills and qualifications required for the job.
  • Request ChatGPT to help you match your qualifications with the job requirements, creating bullet points that you can incorporate into your cover letter.

Reflecting Company Culture:

  • Research the company’s values and culture and discuss these with ChatGPT.
  • Ask ChatGPT to help you weave aspects of the company’s culture into your cover letter, demonstrating your fit for not just the role, but also the organization.

Highlighting Unique Experiences:

  • Tell ChatGPT about unique projects or roles you’ve undertaken that are relevant to the job.
  • Use ChatGPT to formulate stories that showcase your problem-solving skills, leadership, and other qualities that are attractive to the employer.

Addressing the Hiring Manager:

  • If you know the name of the hiring manager, mention this to ChatGPT.
  • Request ChatGPT to help you draft a personalized greeting and opening that respectfully addresses the specific individual, increasing the cover letter’s impact.

Using Dynamic Language:

  • Ask ChatGPT to suggest powerful action verbs and impactful language that relate to your experiences and the job role.
  • ChatGPT assists you in avoiding clichés and using language that will make your cover letter stand out.

Focusing on the Company’s Needs:

  • Discuss the company’s potential challenges or goals with ChatGPT.
  • Work with ChatGPT to craft a narrative that positions you as the solution to those challenges or as someone who can contribute significantly towards those goals.

Ending with a Call to Action:

  • Conclude your cover letter by asking ChatGPT to help draft a strong closing statement.
  • This statement should include a call to action, like expressing eagerness to discuss how you can contribute to the team, that prompts the employer to engage with you further.

Feedback Loop:

  • After customizing your cover letter, ask ChatGPT for feedback on its effectiveness and coherence.
  • Use ChatGPT to perform a ‘mock review’ of your cover letter, simulating a potential employer’s perspective and providing suggestions for improvements.

You can ensure that your cover letter is not just a generic document but a personalized and persuasive piece of communication that increases your chances of landing an interview. Remember, the goal is to make the hiring manager feel as though your cover letter speaks directly to them and their needs.

Reviewing and Refining with ChatGPT

Once you have your draft cover letter, review and refine it to ensure it’s as effective as possible. ChatGPT can act as your first round of edits, providing critical feedback before you submit your application. Here’s how to use ChatGPT for reviewing and refining your cover letter:

Initial Review for Clarity and Conciseness:

  • Ask ChatGPT to review your draft for clarity of ideas and conciseness of language. It can suggest where to cut redundant words or phrases and where to add more information for clarity.

Grammar and Spelling Check:

  • While ChatGPT isn’t a dedicated grammar checker, it can still help identify basic grammatical or spelling errors. Use it to proofread your cover letter for any obvious mistakes.

Tone Consistency:

  • Your cover letter should maintain a professional and enthusiastic tone throughout. Request ChatGPT to assess the tone of your letter and suggest adjustments to ensure consistency.

Ensuring Tailoring to Job and Company:

  • To confirm that your cover letter is well-tailored, ask ChatGPT if the skills and experiences mentioned align with the job description and company values. If gaps are found, ChatGPT can help address them.

Avoidance of Common Clichés:

  • Clichés can weaken your cover letter. Have ChatGPT identify any clichés and offer more original expressions or evidence-based statements in their place.

Flow and Structure:

  • A good cover letter should have a logical flow. ChatGPT can help check that each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next and that the overall structure supports the narrative of your professional story.

Active Voice Over Passive Voice:

  • Active voice is more dynamic and engaging. Ask ChatGPT to highlight passive constructions and to suggest active alternatives where appropriate.

Closing Impact:

  • The closing of your cover letter should leave a lasting impression. ChatGPT can assist in reviewing your closing paragraph to ensure it’s impactful and encourages the hiring manager to act.

Keyword Optimization:

  • For cover letters that will be submitted online, ask ChatGPT to ensure that industry-relevant keywords are included so that your letter performs well with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Feedback Integration:

  • If you receive feedback from mentors or peers, discuss it with ChatGPT to understand how to integrate this feedback effectively into your cover letter.

Final Read-Through:

  • Before you consider your cover letter complete, do a final read-through with ChatGPT. This final check can catch any last-minute issues and ensure the letter is polished and professional.

You’ll craft a document that effectively showcases your qualifications and your fit for the role, increasing your chances of making it to the interview stage by adhering to these techniques. Remember, the goal of the cover letter is not only to introduce you but also to demonstrate your communication skills and attention to detail.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Crafting a compelling cover letter may be an important step in the job application process, and with ChatGPT, you have a sophisticated tool at your disposal to ensure your application stands out. Throughout this tutorial, we’ve equipped you with the knowledge to understand the basics of a cover letter, interact with ChatGPT to draft and refine your letter, customize it to your unique background, and apply advanced tips for effective use.

Recap of Key Takeaways:

  • You now know the structure and purpose of each part of the cover letter.
  • Interaction with ChatGPT has been demystified, showing you how to prompt effectively for the best results.
  • Customization strategies have been outlined, ensuring your cover letter speaks directly to your skills and the job.
  • Advanced tips have been shared to maximize the potential of ChatGPT in creating a polished and professional document.

Next Steps:

Action Plan: Put your new skills into action. Start drafting your cover letter with ChatGPT and go through several iterations to refine it.

Feedback Loop: Seek feedback on your cover letter from mentors, peers, or professionals in your network. Use their insights in combination with ChatGPT’s capabilities to improve your letter further.

Continual Improvement: Remember, writing is a skill that improves with practice. Regularly update your cover letter for each application, and don’t be afraid to come back to ChatGPT for fresh insights or revisions.

Leverage Resources: Explore other resources for job seekers provided by Codecademy and other platforms to complement the skills you’ve gained here.

Track Progress: Keep a log of the cover letters you send out and the responses you receive. This data will help you understand what works best and refine your approach over time.

Stay Informed: The job market and technologies are always evolving. Stay informed about new trends in cover letter writing and AI capabilities to keep your application process state-of-the-art.

Remember, the cover letter is your chance to tell your story in a way that resonates with the hiring manager. It’s about making a connection between your skills and the company’s needs. With the power of ChatGPT and the guidance from this tutorial, you’re well on your way to creating a cover letter that not only ticks all the boxes but also captures the essence of who you are as a professional.

Good luck with your job search, and remember, each application is a step forward in your career journey!

To learn more about using ChatGPT to develop your resume, check out this case study: Streamline Resume Creation with Generative AI Case Study .
To see what else you can do with ChatGPT (or generative AI in general), check out some of the topics covered in the articles located here: AI Articles .

Learn More on Codecademy

Code foundations, full-stack engineer.

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

How to Write A Cover Letter Using ChatGPT

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

Careerflow Team

Job hunting is a tedious process. You have to create a top-notch resume, set up an outstanding LinkedIn profile, write a compelling cover letter, prepare for interviews, appear for online tests, reach out to recruiters, and after all this hustle you finally receive an offer letter. And it can be overwhelming 😥 to handle everything on your own. But now ChatGPT can help and assist you with most, if not all, of your job search needs. We have already talked about interview preparation and resume writing with ChatGPT in our previous guides (check them out below) and today we are here to talk about how you can craft the most effective cover letter for your dream job with ChatGPT.

So let’s get started!

Why Should You Use ChatGPT to Write Your Cover Letter?

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

Before you actually start working with ChatGPT, you should know what are its possible advantages and how it will benefit you in the process of writing a cover letter: 

  • Enhances creativity: Writing a cover letter can be a daunting task, especially if you're not naturally creative. ChatGPT can help you generate creative ideas and language that you may not have thought of on your own. This can enhance your creativity and help you create a more compelling cover letter.
  • Accessible anywhere: You can use ChatGPT from anywhere with an internet connection. This makes it easy to create an impressive cover letter on the go, whether you're at home, at work, or in college.
  • Free to use: ChatGPT is free to use, which means that you don't have to pay for expensive writing services. This makes it a cost-effective option for job seekers.
  • Save time and effort: Writing a cover letter can be a time-consuming and challenging task. With ChatGPT, you can quickly generate personalized language that matches the job description and highlights your skills and experience. This will save you a lot of time and effort.
  • Help you stand out: Doesn’t matter if ChatGPT is making headlines in every other article, and has been a topic of conversation all around, there are still many who are not willing to try and experiment with it. But if you do take the initiative to utilize ChatGPT, you will undoubtedly gain an advantage.

Overall, using ChatGPT to create a cover letter is a logical and compelling choice that can save you time, improve your chances of getting an interview, and demonstrate your tech-savvy skills.

Check out: AI Cover Letter Generator

Best Tips for Efficiently Using ChatGPT While Creating Cover Letters

Mastering the art of utilizing ChatGPT is a valuable skill, especially when it comes to creating a cover letter. It requires patience, practice, and perseverance to make the most of ChatGPT. To help you maximize its potential in your job search, Careerflow have compiled a list of the top ChatGPT tips that are sure to give you an edge:

  • Provide clear and specific prompts: The more information you provide ChatGPT, the better it will understand your needs and tailor its response accordingly. So while asking for a cover letter, make sure to include details about the job you're applying for, your qualifications, and any other relevant information. This will help ChatGPT generate a more personalized response. For example,

❌Instead of asking: Write a cover letter for an entry-level software engineer role.

✅Ask: I am applying for a software developer position at an ABC company and I would like your help writing a personalized cover letter. The job posting requires experience in software development, specifically in Java and Python. The ideal candidate should also have experience working in a team, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to learn quickly. I would like my cover letter to highlight my experience in these areas and how they make me a suitable fit for the position. Additionally, I would like to convey my enthusiasm for the company and its products. Please also make sure to include a professional and confident tone, and emphasize how I can contribute to the company's success. 

Here is the job description: [paste your target job description].

  • Experiment with prompts: Small changes in prompts can have huge effects on ChatGPT output. So experiment with different prompts to see which ones work best for you and generate the most effective cover letter.
  • Use specific keywords: ChatGPT is trained to understand language and context, so including specific keywords related to the job and industry you're applying for can help it generate more accurate content for your cover letter. Use keywords from the job description, company website, and industry-related terms to help ChatGPT create content that aligns with the job requirements.

Rule to remember 📢: Generic prompts will lead to generic results and specific prompts will lead to specific results. 

How To Use ChatGPT to Write Cover Letters: A Step-by-Step Guide 

If you are constantly struggling with a single question during your job search– How to write a cover letter? 

Worry not, your search for a solution ends here. We are here to provide you with a step-by-step guide to crafting an effective cover letter with ChatGPT that will help you stand out in your job search. 

Step 1: Inquire About ChatGPT's Requirements

The first step towards creating a cover letter using ChatGPT is to ask ChatGPT what it needs from you to create the most accurate and personalized cover letter. You can use the following prompts to get started:

  • Can you please tell me what information and details you would need from my end to create the most effective cover letter for me?
  • I'm applying for a job and need you to create a cover letter. Can you please guide me through the information I need to provide you with to write a compelling and effective cover letter?
  • I'm applying for my first job and I need help writing a cover letter that will stand out to potential employers. Can you please let me know what information and details you would need from me in order to create the finest cover letter possible?

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

Step 2: Understand Your Requirements

To make the most of ChatGPT, it's crucial to know what you're aiming for. What job do you want? What qualifications does it require? What message do you want to convey to your potential employer? Here are a few ways that will help you gain clarity:

  • Read the job description
  • Read the job description carefully and take note of the required skills and qualifications.
  • Identify the keywords used in the job description. Later you will be able to request ChatGPT to include some of these keywords in your cover letter. 
  • Research the company
  • Visit the company's website and read about its mission statement, vision, and values.
  • Look for any recent news or press releases about the company and its current projects.
  • Identify the company's target audience, products or services, and competitors.
  • Analyze the match
  • Compare the job description requirements and responsibilities to your own skills and qualifications.
  • Analyze how your skills and qualifications match the job description and make note of any gaps that you need to address in your cover letter.
  • Investigate your target company's mission statement and culture to see how they align with your personal values and aspirations.

Step 3: Try to Answer a Few Specific Questions in Your Prompt

To ensure that your prompt is on the right track, it is imperative to make sure that it addresses all the common requirements. Some key questions that your prompt should answer:

  • What is your current situation – student, working professional or recent graduate?
  • What is your desired position?
  • What is your specific career goal?
  • In what field do you work?
  • What's your motivation behind applying for a particular job opening?
  • What are your core skills and how will they be useful in your target role?

Step 4: Start a Conversation with ChatGPT

Now that you've completed all your pre-planning and research, it's time to begin speaking with ChatGPT. Follow these steps to start a conversation with ChatGPT:

  • Browse to https://openai.com/blog/chatgpt/
  • Scroll down the page and click on “Try ChatGPT”. 
  • Log in with your OpenAI account. If you don't already have an OpenAI account, you can create one or log in using a Google or Microsoft account. 

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

Step 5: Introduce Yourself

When engaging in a conversation with ChatGPT, it's advisable to begin by introducing yourself. 

  • Mention your name, current job, experience, and educational background.
  • You can provide additional information such as your interests or hobbies, but make sure it is relevant to the job or company you are applying to.
  • Moreover, you can use the following template while introducing yourself: 

"My name is [Your Name], and I am currently working at [Your current job]. I have [Number of years of experience] years of experience in [Your area of expertise], and I hold a degree in [Your field of study] from [Name of the university]."

Rule to remember: Use simple and understandable language and avoid providing too much information irrelevant to the job or company you are applying to while introducing yourself to ChatGPT .

Step 6: Provide the Job Description, Company Information, and Your Resume to ChatGPT

After introducing yourself, provide the job description, company information, and resume to ChatGPT. You can either copy and paste the information or type it in your own words. This information will help ChatGPT understand the requirements of the position and the company culture. 

Here is an example of how you can provide a job description to ChatGPT in your words: “I am applying for a digital marketing specialist position at XYZ Company. The job description requires experience in social media management, content creation, and analytics. The company is a leading provider of marketing services to small businesses, and its mission is to empower entrepreneurs with innovative solutions.”

It is advisable to provide ChatGPT with all three documents: a job description, resume, and company information. But if you are unable to provide all three, at least provide a job description of the role you are seeking.

Step 7: Ask ChatGPT to Write a Cover Letter

Now that ChatGPT has all the necessary information, ask for help with the cover letter. You can provide guidance on the tone, style, and word limit you want. And then ChatGPT will use its language generation capabilities to produce a personalized cover letter that meets your requirements.

Example: Can you help me write a cover letter for this position? I want the tone to be professional but friendly, and I want to highlight my experience in digital marketing and my passion for helping small businesses succeed. Please write my cover letter in 150 words. 

Rule to remember 📢: ChatGPT can give you different results for the same prompt. Simply click on “Regenerate response” and explore all the options. 

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

Best Prompt Template and Examples to Ask ChatGPT to Write a Cover Letter

Best prompt template to ask chatgpt to create a personalized cover letter.

My name is [Your Name], and I am a [Your current job or recent graduate in Your Field]. I have [Number of years of experience] years of experience in [Your area of expertise], where I gained experience in [Mention specific skills, projects, or tools that you have worked on, or your achievements]. Some of my notable achievements include [Mention measurable metrics or accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and experience]. I hold a degree in [Your field of study] from [Name of the university]. I'm interested in pursuing a career in [Your desired field or industry], where I can leverage my [Your specific skills or experience]. I'm applying for the [Position Name] position at [Company Name], which I found on [Job Posting Site]. I'm excited about this opportunity because [Mention what excites you about this opportunity or why you are interested in the company]. I believe that [Company Name] is [Share information about the company or its values]. I think the challenges of this position include [Describe the specific challenges or goals of the role]. I'm confident that my experience in [Your specific skills or experience] can help me succeed in this role. I would describe myself as [Share your personality or work style], and I think this quality will make me a valuable addition to the team. I look forward to seeing the personalized cover letter you create for me.

This is my resume: [Paste your resume] .

This is the job description: [paste your target job description] .

Rule to Remember 📢: This is a generic template and should be customized according to the user's needs. The points can be modified, added, and removed as needed.

5 Best Prompt Examples to Ask ChatGPT to Create a Personalized Cover Letter

Example 1: My name is John Doe, and I am a recent graduate of Computer Science. I have 1 year of experience in software development, where I gained experience developing and maintaining applications using Python, Java, and SQL. Some of my notable achievements include developing a web application that increased user engagement by 30% and implementing a data analytics solution that improved operational efficiency by 20%. I hold a degree in Computer Science from the University of ABC. I'm interested in pursuing a career in software development, where I can leverage my skills to build innovative solutions that solve complex problems. I'm applying for the Software Developer position at XYZ Company, which I found on LinkedIn. I'm excited about this opportunity because I believe that XYZ Company's focus on developing cutting-edge technologies aligns with my career goals. I think the challenges of this position include developing and deploying high-quality software that meets customer requirements and adheres to best practices. I would describe myself as a problem solver and a team player, and I think these qualities will make me a valuable addition to the team. Can you write me a cover letter based on this information? 

Note: The prompt starts with an introduction and talks about the current situation, experiences, target industry, and core skills of a person. Then it also states achievements with proper statistics. Moreover, it talks about career goals and explains why a person is applying for the role. And that is why this prompt will lead to better results. 

Check out the complete conversation with ChatGPT here: https://shareg.pt/shDWyBK

Example 2: My name is John Smith and I'm excited to apply for the Senior Marketing Manager position at ABC Company. I came across this opportunity on LinkedIn and was immediately drawn to it because of the company's reputation for innovative marketing strategies and its commitment to social responsibility. With over 10 years of experience in the marketing industry, including 5 years in a leadership role, I have successfully led cross-functional teams in developing and executing complex marketing campaigns that have generated total revenue of $50 million. Additionally, I have extensive experience conducting market research and using data analytics to measure campaign effectiveness, resulting in a 25% increase in ROI for my previous employer. I am also impressed by the company's mission to empower underrepresented communities and its commitment to sustainability. Could you please help me write a cover letter that highlights my experience in marketing leadership and data analytics? In addition, it showcases my enthusiasm for the role and the company's mission. I want to make sure that my cover letter stands out and captures the attention of the hiring manager.

Note: This prompt provides an introductory statement about an individual's background and accomplishments, while also outlining the key areas that should be emphasized in a cover letter.

Check out the complete conversation with ChatGPT here: https://shareg.pt/YHts5d6

Example 3: I am currently applying for a Marketing Manager role at Acme Corporation. Could you please help me write a cover letter that highlights my skills and experiences? To assist you, I am attaching my current resume which outlines my professional background, skills, and experiences. My top strengths include strategic thinking, project management, and data analysis. I have researched the company and found that Acme Corporation values innovation, customer satisfaction, and teamwork. Lastly, I believe that my volunteer work with a local non-profit organization, where I led a team of volunteers to organize fundraising events, could help me stand out from other candidates.

This is my resume: [Paste your resume].

Note: This is a simple and straightforward prompt that starts with the target role and company and continues to describe top skills and the company’s culture. Moreover, it provides information about volunteer work and has a resume that ensures the cover letter will be personalized.  

Check out the complete conversation with ChatGPT here: https://shareg.pt/qtBK15O

Example 4: I am looking to apply for the position of Senior Software Engineer at XYZ Tech and I want you to write a compelling cover letter. As for my background, I am attaching my current resume which outlines my relevant skills and experience. Over the past 5 years, I have worked on several complex software development projects, including an inventory management system for a major retailer, a real-time chat application, and a payment processing system for a fintech startup. From my past experiences, I have led teams of up to 10 developers, designers, and quality assurance specialists. I have always ensured that our projects are delivered on time and meet or exceed customer expectations. Moreover, I have researched XYZ Tech and I am impressed by the company's reputation for innovation, teamwork, and community involvement. I believe that my passion for software development, my technical expertise, and my experience leading teams make me an ideal fit for the Senior Software Engineer role at XYZ Tech. Finally, I would like to share a personal achievement that I believe showcases my dedication and work ethic. Last year, I completed a marathon in under 4 hours, which required months of intense training and discipline. This experience taught me the value of setting and achieving goals, as well as the importance of teamwork and perseverance.

This is the job description: [paste your target job description].

Note: This is again a detailed prompt that gives ChatGPT all the necessary information about experience, achievements, and extracurricular activities. It also provides a job description and a resume.

Check out the complete conversation with ChatGPT here: https://shareg.pt/b0u3eaZ

Example 5: I am interested in applying for the position of Sales Manager at ABC Company and I want you to write me a cover letter that highlights my relevant experience, skills, and achievements. As a Sales Manager at XYZ Corporation, I was responsible for leading a team of 10 sales representatives. I was also responsible for driving revenue growth through effective sales strategies and client relationship management. During my tenure at XYZ Corporation, I achieved a sales growth rate of 25% year-over-year and increased the team's overall revenue by 35%. In terms of the Sales Manager role at ABC Company, the job description calls for someone with a proven track record of sales success. This person will have experience managing sales teams, and the ability to develop and implement sales plans. Based on my experience, I am confident that I possess the necessary skills to excel in this role. Furthermore, I have researched ABC Company and I am impressed by the company's mission to provide high-quality products and services to its customers while promoting a culture of innovation and collaboration. As someone who is passionate about delivering exceptional customer service and building strong client relationships, I believe that ABC Company's values align with my own. Finally, I would like to share a personal achievement that I believe showcases my dedication and ability to exceed expectations. During my time at XYZ Corporation, I was recognized as the top-performing Sales Manager for three consecutive years, achieving an average sales growth rate of 30% year-over-year. Moreover, I was able to develop and implement a sales training program that resulted in a 50% increase in the team's sales productivity.

Note: In this prompt person is sharing her experience and achievements in great detail and discusses the job description in her own words rather than simply copy-pasting the job description so ChatGPT can avoid unnecessary information. 

Check out the complete conversation with ChatGPT here: https://shareg.pt/iVDyiY6

Also Read: How to Use ChatGPT to Write A Resume

10 Bonus Prompt Templates to Help you Achieve Results Fast

We understand that securing a job requires a great deal of effort and time, and writing long prompts can be another burden. Thus, we're providing you with 10 bonus prompts that you can use to create a cover letter by simply filling in a couple of details. So go and try these templates now!

  • I am applying for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] and want you to write a cover letter for me with a strict word limit of 200 words. My experience and qualifications are summarized in my attached resume.  This is my resume: [Paste your resume].
  • I'm excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I'd appreciate it if you could write me a cover letter that showcases my skills and experience. Feel free to use my attached resume as a reference.  This is my resume: [Paste your resume].
  • Could you please generate a brief and polite cover letter for me to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], using the job description as a reference? Also, my attached resume includes my experience and qualifications.  This is my resume: [Paste your resume]. This is the job description: [paste your target job description].
  • I want to get the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] and would appreciate a persuasive and convincing cover letter using both my resume and the job description. Keep the tone friendly and stick to the word limit of 200. This is my resume: [Paste your resume]. This is the job description: [paste your target job description].
  • I am interested in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I would like you to write a cover letter that emphasizes my ability to [specific skill or competency] and how it can contribute to the company's success. Can you create a persuasive letter?
  • I am applying for a [Job Title] position that requires knowledge of [specific language or cultural context], as well as experience in [specific industry or field]. Can you help me create a cover letter that highlights my proficiency in these areas and how they can benefit the company's global initiatives in [specific mission or goal]?
  • I am interested in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] and would like you to write a cover letter that highlights my achievements in [skill or field], such as increasing sales by [specific metric], and how they can contribute to the company's success.
  • I am interested in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] and need a cover letter that emphasizes my ability to work well under pressure and deliver results. Can you help me create a persuasive letter that showcases my achievements in [specific accomplishment] and how they can benefit the company?
  • I am applying for a [Job Title] position at [Company Name] that requires experience in [specific software or technology]. I need a cover letter that highlights my proficiency in [specific software or technology], as well as my [specific soft skill] and how it can benefit the company's [specific objective or goal].
  • I am seeking a [Job Title] position that requires experience in [specific task or skill], as well as knowledge of [specific industry or field]. Can you help me create a cover letter that showcases my ability to [specific achievement or accomplishment] and how it aligns with [Company Name]'s values and mission in this industry?

Note 📢: While these prompts can help you quickly achieve your desired results, it's important to note that they may not result in a fully tailored cover letter that accurately reflects your experience and background. To ensure your letter stands out, we suggest investing time in personalizing it to the best of your ability.

How to create a final cover letter from a chatgpt-generated cover letter .

While artificial intelligence can make the process of creating a cover letter more efficient, it's critical to remember that a strong cover letter should reflect your unique skills and experiences. If you've used ChatGPT to generate a cover letter but feel it lacks the personal touch you need to stand out to employers, don't worry! With a few simple steps, you can transform a ChatGPT-generated cover letter into a final version that effectively communicates your qualifications and sets you apart from the competition. 

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

  • Make sure your cover letter matches the job description: Take the time to read the job description carefully and check if the ChatGPT has included the most important qualifications and requirements for the position in your cover letter. 
  • Adjust the tone: ChatGPT can generate cover letters in different tones, such as formal, friendly, or persuasive. Depending on the company culture and job requirements, you may want to adjust the tone of your cover letter to better fit the audience. For example, a more formal tone may be appropriate for a corporate job while a friendly tone may be better for a startup.
  • Emphasize your unique skills and experiences: ChatGPT can generate cover letters with a lot of information, but you can make your cover letter stand out by emphasizing your unique skills and experiences. Use the output from ChatGPT as a starting point and add details highlighting why you're the most qualified candidate for the job.
  • Edit for clarity and conciseness: While ChatGPT can generate a lot of content, it's critical to keep your cover letter concise and to the point. Employers often receive a large volume of cover letters, so making yours concise and easy to read will increase your chances of getting noticed. Edit out any unnecessary information and focus on highlighting your most relevant skills and experience.
  • Customize the opening and closing: The opening and closing of your cover letter are critical components that can help you make a strong first impression. So if you have time try to polish them on your own.
  • Review the grammatical errors and typos: Use a grammar checker or proofreading tools like Grammarly and WordTune to catch any mistakes that may have been missed by the ChatGPT algorithm.

Overall, ChatGPT can provide an ideal starting point for creating a cover letter, but customizing the output to fit your requirements is key to making it stand out.

What are the Common Mistakes to Avoid While Creating a Cover Letter Using ChatGPT?

A large number of articles have been published recently regarding how recruiters reject AI-generated cover letters for their lack of personalization. However, these situations and conclusions are very subjective as the personalization of the output of ChatGPT is solely based on information input by the user. Here are some common mistakes that you should avoid while creating a cover letter using ChatGPT:

  • Not following the correct cover letter format: Not following the correct cover letter format: There are certain conventions that should be followed when it comes to cover letter formattings, such as including your contact information, a formal greeting, an introduction, body paragraphs, and a closing statement. Make sure you follow these conventions and include all the necessary information in your cover letter.
  • Never fall for clickbait - “Create your cover letter in 60 seconds with ChatGPT”, and “Get shortlisted for MAANG interview with a ChatGPT-generated resume or cover letter”, these are mere tactics to attract job seekers. No such thing exists in the real world. In the end, technology is here to assist you but cannot completely replace hard work. 
  • Completely relying on ChatGPT- There is no doubt that ChatGPT is a great tool for speeding up the cover writer generation process, but relying on it alone has its own disadvantages. In the end, ChatGPT is an AI tool fed with data therefore it overlooks the personalization or factors that can make your cover letter stand out. So ChatGPT intelligence combined with your creativity can do wonders for your job search. 

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

Using ChatGPT can undoubtedly be a game-changer in streamlining the process of writing a cover letter. But let's be clear: ChatGPT isn't a magic solution that can replace your efforts entirely. Instead, you should use ChatGPT's output as a guide and customize it to emphasize your unique strengths. The more information and details you provide to ChatGPT, the better your cover letter will be at showcasing your skills and making you stand out as a candidate.

As you wrap up your cover letter writing journey with ChatGPT, remember that the power of language and technology is at your fingertips. So why settle for a mediocre cover letter when you can use the most advanced AI language model available to craft a masterpiece? Give it a try and watch your job prospects soar 😉!

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How to use ChatGPT to write a cover letter

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If you're applying for a new job and are looking for AI tools to help you get a leg up, ChatGPT is probably the best way right now to do that. It's powerful and flexible, and many people use it for writing cover letters. Cover letters are vitally important in job applications, as they can help you stand out by showcasing your interest in a role, and by making it clear why a company should hire you and not someone else.

It's challenging to write a good cover letter, though, and you may find yourself mired in writer's block. That's why you should use ChatGPT for this task, and this is how you can do that. You'll need a ChatGPT account and a basic understanding of how the service works. Therefore, familiarize yourself with the service before proceeding.

Step 1: Plan it out

Asking ChatGPT to write a cover letter for a job listing on Indeed

As this ChatGPT response indicates, you first need to plan and outline the details you want to include. ChatGPT can't write an effective cover letter without information about the job you're applying for or the specific skills you want to emphasize. If you have ChatGPT Plus, it may be able to pull straight from the job listing, but you can still guide the free version of ChatGPT quite effectively if you don't have the upgraded version. You'll just have to provide the tool with the following:

  • Job title and main responsibilities
  • Key qualifications and skills required for the job
  • Any specific points you'd like to highlight (such as relevant experience, skills, and achievements)
  • The company's name and any details about it that you'd like to include

Some websites won't work with ChatGPT Plus anyway. If that's the case, you'll need to do this task manually, regardless. The questions ChatGPT asks me in the above screenshot are a good way to begin. Otherwise, feel free to ask ChatGPT what it needs from you for a cover letter.

Step 2: Fill in the details

ChatGPT cover letter written for a job

Once you have all the details ready to go, use them to customize the draft that ChatGPT generated, further clarifying the individual responsibilities, skills, and other key points about the job. You'll need to be clear and thorough about your own experience as well. If you've also already used ChatGPT to help you write your resume or CV, you're ahead of the curve in generating a seamless cover letter. ChatGPT will come back to you with a cover letter based on what you provided during the resume-writing task.

The screenshot above is the cover letter that ChatGPT created based on the information I gave it from the job description. It's certainly not bad, and you can make any minor edits or changes that you want. However, if you'd like it to have a different tone or to contain more information, you can ask ChatGPT to do that for you.

Step 3: Optionally export to PDF

Cover letter in ChatGPT exported to PDF, showing text running off the side

If you want ChatGPT to export to a PDF, you'll need ChatGPT Plus for this step. Simply ask it to export to a PDF, and it'll do so. Sometimes, however, the results may be a bit weird. For example, the above output did not scale right in a PDF and ran off the side of the page. I'd recommend simply copying and pasting what ChatGPT provides into a text editor of your choice, such as Google Docs or Overleaf.

That's it! Writing a cover letter in ChatGPT is quick and relatively painless once you plan it out correctly. It's also ideal for knocking this task out on the go, such as on a phone or tablet .

Q: Why use ChatGPT for a cover letter?

For many of us, writing a cover letter is painful and arduous. It can be hard to figure out what to write and how to organize it. ChatGPT takes the most difficult part out of the process and makes it easier to present yourself effectively.

Q: What limitations does ChatGPT have when writing a cover letter?

ChatGPT can't always access job listing websites, meaning you'll have to copy and paste the job details. Also, you need you to provide all your relevant personal details so that it can create the optimal cover letter for you.

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How I write genuinely good cover letters with ChatGPT

ChatGPT can be great for creating cover letters. But it can also suck and produce robotic sounding, generic waffle.

I've perfected the art of generating cover letters with ChatGPT and I want to share it with you. The mantra 'garbage in, garbage out' is apt here. The key to creating good cover letters with ChatGPT is to provide a well-crafted prompt with lots of context.

Here's how I do it:

1) Set a Role and Style for ChatGPT

Assign a role to ChatGPT to guide its output. For instance, you could start with:

"You are a cover letter generator. Your task is to create [your tone here] and concise cover letters."

The tone should be tailored to the job, but a professional style is generally suitable.

2) Guide ChatGPT on the best Cover Letter Structure

While ChatGPT has a basic understanding of cover letters, it benefits from specific instructions about how to structure a cover letter. Here's a prompt I've found effective:

"To compose a compelling cover letter, you must scrutinise the job description for key qualifications. Begin with a succinct introduction about the candidate's identity and career goals. Highlight skills aligned with the job, underpinned by tangible examples. Incorporate details about the company, emphasising its mission or unique aspects that align with the candidate's values. Conclude by reaffirming the candidate's suitability, inviting further discussion. Use job-specific terminology for a tailored and impactful letter, maintaining a professional style suitable for a >[job role]. Please provide your response in under [number of words here] words."

Note the direction to limit the number of words ^. ChatGPT loves to waffle, put a stop to it by telling it how many words to use. I'd suggest 300 - 400 words.

3) Include Your Resume

To get a good cover letter generate with ChatGPT, you want as much context as possible. So you really ought to include your resume in the initial prompt. It helps to preface it and wrap it in speech marks or tags like so:

"This is my current resume. <Start of resume> [resume text] </end of resume>"

This will help ChatGPT tie in your real experiences, education and skills.

4) Include the Job and Company Description

Once again, the more context the better. Share the full job description and, if available, a description of the company:

"Here is the job description for the job I'm applying for: <job description> [resume text] </job description> and here is a description of the company: <company >description>[company description here] </company description>"

This is going to give ChatGPT details to draw upon, and give it something to align your skills or values with against job description.

5) Edit Your Cover Letter

Always review and edit ChatGPT's output before sending. Ensure it aligns with your voice and style, and verify that no inaccuracies have been introduced. If the tone isn't right, adjust the initial role-setting sentence. Remember, ChatGPT gets you 90% there - the final polish is up to you.

Advanced Tips

Experiment with OpenAI's Playground settings like temperature, model, and repetition and if you can afford it, ChatGPT 4 offers significant improvements over ChatGPT 3 or 3.5, so you'll get better results. If you can't afford ChatGPT 4, there's plenty of tools which give you access to the same AI models for less money. I experimented extensively with both models, and GPT4 is always slightly more natural sounding and engages better with the job description.

I experimented a lot with using LLMs like ChatGPT to generate cover letters whilst I was building JobBuddy (a purpose built AI cover letter generation tool which does all of the above). It's taken me many hours to get this working consistently well with ChatGPT, so hopefully this will save you from doing the same! Just remember to provide as much context as you can, tell ChatGPT specifically what you want and how you want it and you will get a good cover letter or at least it will get you 90% of the way there.

That was a long post, but if implemented correctly, it should save you dozens of hours! Let me know if you have any questions.

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How to Use ChatGPT to Find the Job of Your Dreams

AI can do more than help you write a cover letter and resume -- it can also strategize with you on how to find your ideal job.

how to tell chat gpt to write a cover letter

It's a hard time to be on the job hunt. Job posts are inundated with responses and hundreds of applicants. You know you have to put in the work to stand out, but it's easy to get disillusioned with mass, generic automated rejections, fake job ads and ghosting culture. 

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Take a breath and turn to new tools to help you land a job you love. Create your resume and a custom cover letter and curate your job search, all with the help of artificial intelligence. 

AI tools are being used in HR to streamline an otherwise arduous process. While new solutions are being rolled out to the market, there's a lot to like about ChatGPT . It's a catch-all tool for creating your documents, a research aid and a career "counselor." Just know that, like a lot of AI chatbots, it requires smart prompts from you, which can mean some trial and error.

You can sign up for an account to use a free version of ChatGPT or pay $20 a month for more features like the most recent data, priority access and image generation. 

Here's how to get hired with a little helping hand from AI -- and if you're looking for more ways to use AI, check out our pieces on  how to use Midjourney to make wedding invitations  and  how to use AI-powered Grammarly for all your editing needs . For more AI tips, news and reviews, check out CNET's AI Atlas hub.

Tell ChatGPT about yourself 

Give it your elevator pitch -- the rundown on your career, experience, ambitions and values. I'm a journalist, but the same processes apply regardless of your field.

Prompt:  "I'm a [career] and have worked at [previous companies]. My top skills are [XYZ] and my aspirations are [1, 2, 3]. Can you suggest job roles, company types and career paths that best align with my experience and goals?"

Here's what I input:

Job Hunting ChatGPT

It came back with detailed results on some job roles, company types and career paths to target, such as prestigious publications, media companies and publishing houses, think tanks and startups. 

Feed it your resume

To get even more specific, input your resume into ChatGPT. Just be sure to remove sensitive information you don't want in the AI, such as your contact details to  avoid any future data breaches  or unnecessary risk. 

Prompt: "Here is my resume. Provide further suggestions." 

This time, it provided (without prompting) advice for enhancing my career, as well as even more detailed suggestions for roles and career paths. But I wanted even more specific direction.

Job Suggestions ChatGPT 1-1

Ask for advice

Given I've been a freelancer for 10 years -- working as a reporter for publications and writer for brands -- I wanted to know where ChatGPT thought I'd be most successful. 

I asked: "What is the strongest part of my resume? Will I have more success applying for reporter or copywriter positions?" 

While I have a solid decade of corporate writing experience, ChatGPT knew I'd find more fulfillment with a reporter position, particularly cultural criticism. It made suggestions on the strengths and opportunities I'd have applying for each kind of role, and it gave an overall recommendation.

For even more specificity, I added: "Joan Didion is my career inspiration." In response, ChatGPT inserted a summary of Didion and peppered mentions of her throughout its suggestions of jobs, companies and careers, briefly explaining how they related to her career.

Here's part of what it suggested:

Job Suggestions Didion ChatGPT 1-1

Generate a list of top companies to target

Next, I scanned through everything ChatGPT had said so far, highlighting the roles or recommendations I liked. Then, I fed it back into ChatGPT and asked it what top companies I should reach out to, adding in where I'm based. 

Prompt: "I'm most interested in roles such as senior journalist, feature writer, cultural critic, head of editorial, editorial director, content director, and chief content officer. What top 30 companies should I target for a new job? I live in the New York City area, but I work remotely." 

It gave me a lot of information, but no new ideas for companies to target. I responded: "Provide a secondary list of 30 companies that aren't so big and might be easier to get a job at."

The results were better, with suggestions split into categories for mid-sized and smaller publications, specialized and niche publications, and regional and local Publications. It also gave me strategies on how to apply at those publications, including leveraging my network, showcasing my versatility, writing tailored pitches and emphasizing my portfolio.  

A message to recruiters

I picked 10 companies from ChatGPT's list and then asked it to write a message to a recruiter to introduce myself and express my interest. 

Prompt:  "Write a short message to the recruiter at the following five companies to introduce myself and express my interest: Narratively, Longreads, Mother Jones, Salon and The Cut."

It came back with a pretty generic suggestion, so I pushed ChatGPT further: "For the Narratively message, remove the generic intro and mention the previous reporting I've done on the corporatization of LGBTQ+ fertility, expatriatism and cultural fragmentation."

Narratively suggestion

I tweaked it a bit to sound more natural and like me, which is the version I'll tell ChatGPT to use for the other four messages.

Once you have your polished messages, send to the best contact via LinkedIn DM or email -- it might be worth using LinkedIn Premium during your job search.

Use this strategy to directly target employers, personalizing your application approach and bypassing the job boards.

Editors' note: CNET used an AI engine to help create several dozen stories, which are labeled accordingly. The note you're reading is attached to articles that deal substantively with the topic of AI but are created entirely by our expert editors and writers. For more, see our  AI policy .

How to Use ChatGPT To Write a Resume - With Prompts & Examples

How to Use ChatGPT To Write a Resume - With Prompts & Examples

Madison Norton

Writing a resume using ChatGPT is very easy. You could simply go ahead and write “write a resume for my {job title}” and ChatGPT will return an output. Copy and paste the text output from ChatGPT and that’s it.

But, will that resume be good enough to actually help you in your job search? Most likely, that resume won’t help at all.

That’s why we wrote this blog to help you use ChatGPT in your resume building process like a pro and create a resume that helps you stand out from the crowd.

  • Can ChatGPT Write a Resume

Yes, ChatGPT can write a resume. By feeding it specific prompts and information about your experience, skills, and education, ChatGPT can generate comprehensive, tailored content for your resume. Doing so will help you get the right level of customization that can make your resume stand out.

  • How to Use ChatGPT to Write Your Resume

To effectively use ChatGPT to craft your resume, specify distinct sections you want to include. This ensures a structured resume highlighting all necessary aspects of your career. Start by:

  • Contact Information: Start by telling ChatGPT to list your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile. Ensure accuracy so potential employers can easily reach you.
  • Professional Summary: Share your career objectives and key achievements with ChatGPT. It can create a compelling summary that showcases your value proposition to employers.
  • Work Experience: Provide ChatGPT with details of your previous jobs, including the company names, your titles, and the dates of your employment. Then, describe your responsibilities and accomplishments in each role for ChatGPT to generate a concise work history.
  • Education: Inform ChatGPT about your educational background, including the degrees you've obtained, the institutions you attended, and your graduation dates. Include notable academic achievements or extracurricular activities.
  • Skills: Specify the skills you wish to highlight and tailor them to the job you're applying for. ChatGPT can help phrase these skills effectively, making them appealing to recruiters.
  • Certifications and Awards: If applicable, mention any certifications, licenses, or awards you've received. ChatGPT can format these achievements to add credibility to your resume.
  • Personal Projects or Volunteer Work: Share details of any relevant projects or volunteer work demonstrating your skills and commitment. This information can be particularly persuasive, offering a fuller picture of who you are beyond professional experience.
  • How to Use ChatGPT to Write Your Resume Even Faster

To use ChatGPT to write your resume even faster, skip providing all of the information manually, use the GPT-4 model and upload your PDF resume and ask to write, expand, improve or customize your resume.

  • Should You Use ChatGPT to Write Your Resume

Yes, using ChatGPT to write your resume is a common practice today. It streamlines the resume-building process, ensuring your resume is professional. Additionally, ChatGPT's ability to customize resumes for each job can significantly enhance your resume's impact on potential employers.

  • How to Upload Resume to ChatGPT

Unless you are on a ChatGPT Plus or a ChatGPT Team plan, you won’t be able to upload your resume to ChatGPT. If you have access to the paid plans, simply “click” on the attach icon at the bottom left on the chat and “upload” your resume PDF.

If you don’t have access to paid plans, you can either:

  • Find free tools with GPT API access to improve your resume. VisualCV as a free AI resume builder that you can try!
  • Copy and paste your resume’s content through ChatGPT’s UI to upload it
  • How to Ask ChatGPT for Any Other Resume Help

To seek resume help from ChatGPT, input your questions into the chat. Whether you need advice on optimal formatting, choosing better words, or tailoring your resume to a specific industry, ChatGPT can offer insights based on trends and best practices.

Writing Prompt: How can I make my resume stronger and more interesting to potential employers hiring for {job title}?

  • How to Improve Resume With ChatGPT

You can do the following using ChatGPT to improve your resume:

  • Get content recommendations: ChatGPT suggests stronger action verbs and clearer descriptions, such as "Boosted sales by 20% through innovative marketing strategies."
  • Get formatting assistance: ChatGPT provides layout guidance for visual appeal and readability, recommending bullet points for clarity.
  • Optimize your resume’s keywords: ChatGPT tailors your resume with relevant keywords for specific job applications, increasing visibility to ATS.
  • Customize for each job: ChatGPT aligns your skills and experiences with job requirements, enhancing relevance and competitiveness.
  • General proofreading and grammar check: ChatGPT ensures a polished resume free of grammatical errors or typos, maintaining a professional image.

An example ChatGPT prompt to improve your resume: “Improve my resume by focusing on readability, stronger action verbs, quantifying my achievements, and elevating my skills and experiences.”

How to Improve your Resume using ChatGPT - Content Enhancement

  • Utilize stronger action verbs and clearer descriptions.
  • Highlight accomplishments such as "Boosted sales by 20% through innovative marketing strategies."
  • Ensure key skills and experiences are effectively highlighted.

ChatGPT Resume Writing Prompt for Content Enhancement

"Describe a significant achievement in my previous role using dynamic language and quantifiable results."

How to Improve your Resume using ChatGPT - Formatting Assistance

  • Provide layout guidance for visual appeal and readability.
  • Recommend bullet points for clarity and consistency.
  • Ensure the overall design is visually appealing and easy to follow.

ChatGPT Resume Writing Prompt for Formatting Assistance

"Revise my resume layout to make it more visually appealing and reader-friendly, using bullet points to emphasize key points."

How to Improve your Resume using ChatGPT - Keyword Optimization

  • Tailor your resume with relevant keywords for specific job applications.
  • Increase visibility to Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) by optimizing keywords.
  • Align the language in your resume with the requirements of the job description.

ChatGPT Resume Writing Prompt for Keyword Optimization

"Incorporate industry-specific keywords into my resume to enhance its searchability and relevance to potential employers."

How to Improve your Resume using ChatGPT - Tailoring for Specific Jobs

  • Align your skills and experiences with the requirements of each job application.
  • Customize your resume to showcase your qualifications for each specific position.
  • Highlight relevant achievements and experiences that match the job description.

ChatGPT Resume Writing Prompt for Tailoring for Specific Jobs

"Tailor my resume to match the qualifications and requirements listed in the job description, emphasizing your relevant skills and experiences."

How to Improve your Resume using ChatGPT - Proofreading and Grammar Checking

  • Ensure your resume is free of grammatical errors and typos.
  • Maintain a professional image by presenting a polished and error-free document.
  • Double-check for consistency in formatting and language usage.

ChatGPT Resume Writing Prompt for Proofreading and Grammar Checking

"Review my resume for any grammatical errors or typos, ensuring a polished and professional presentation to potential employers."

How to Improve Your Resume Summary with ChatGPT

To enhance your resume summary with ChatGPT, provide a concise overview of your professional experience and skills. This AI tool can refine your initial draft, making the language more dynamic and aligning it with industry keywords.

The process involves iterative refinement, where you can tweak ChatGPT's suggestions to better match your unique career trajectory and aspirations. This collaborative effort results in a powerful summary that captures the attention of recruiters and sets the tone for your entire resume.

ChatGPT Prompt : Add in industry keywords to allow my resume to stand out and better fit the job description.

How to Improve Your Resume Work Experience with ChatGPT

Provide detailed information about your roles and achievements to enhance the work experience section of your resume with ChatGPT. Through its understanding of resume optimization, ChatGPT can suggest more impactful ways to describe your contributions, using strong action verbs and quantifying results where possible. This process highlights your abilities and demonstrates your value to prospective employers concisely and powerfully.

Additionally, ChatGPT can assist in identifying and filling gaps in your work experience narrative, ensuring a coherent and compelling story.

ChatGPT Prompt : Enhance my work experience section by making it more impactful and quantifying my results. Also, fill in gaps to create a more compelling narrative.

How to Use ChatGPT to Tailor Resume to Job Description

Tailoring your resume to a specific job description using ChatGPT is highly efficient and effective. By inputting the job's key responsibilities and required skills, ChatGPT can help emphasize relevant experiences and skills. This personalized approach ensures your resume resonates with the specific needs of employers, significantly boosting the chances of your resume being seen.

ChatGPT Prompt : Tailor my resume to this specific job description, emphasizing my relevant experiences and skills: [copy and paste the job description]

How to Improve Your Resume Skills Section with ChatGPT

Revamping your resume's skills section with ChatGPT is straightforward. Input a list of your skills, and ChatGPT can help you refine them, making the language more engaging and relevant to potential employers. By focusing on the skills that align closely with the job requirements, ChatGPT can ensure your resume makes a powerful statement about your capabilities.

ChatGPT Prompt : Rewrite my resume to include soft and technical skills that highlight my fit for this position. Make the language more engaging and relevant to the job description.

Convert Job Description to Resume with ChatGPT

Converting a job description to a resume section with ChatGPT involves extracting the core competencies and duties. ChatGPT can analyze the job description, identifying the skills and experiences most relevant to the position.

ChatGPT Prompt : Convert this job description into a resume, identifying relevant skills and experiences.

  • ChatGPT Resume Rewrite - How Effective Is It?

ChatGPT's resume rewrite can significantly improve your resume's effectiveness. Tailoring language and emphasizing key achievements aligns your profile with employer expectations. This personalized approach makes your resume more compelling, enhancing your visibility in the crowded job market.

ChatGPT Prompt : Rewrite my resume to make it more effective and emphasize my key achievements.

  • 13 Additional ChatGPT Resume Prompts to Write Your Resume

1. ChatGPT Prompt to Review Resume and Provide Feedback as a Recruiter

"Please review my current resume with the expertise of a seasoned resume editor and recruiter. Your task is to identify and correct any grammatical, spelling, or syntax errors, and address formatting issues to enhance clarity and effectiveness. Ensure the resume is optimized for ATS software. Additionally, evaluate the content for its ability to effectively communicate my background and skills in a compelling manner. Provide feedback on the overall structure and organization of the resume, suggesting improvements where necessary. Your edit should encompass all relevant aspects including formatting, layout, and content, adhering strictly to best practices and industry standards for resume writing."

2. ChatGPT Prompt to Analyze a Job Ad and Suggest Keywords to Add to a Resume

"Could you please help me identify key keywords and skills from this job description? I'm looking to tailor my resume/application to match the requirements and highlight relevant experience."

3. ChatGPT Prompt to Review Resume Based on a Job Ad and Also Write a Custom Cover Letter

Step 1: "Please provide recommendations on enhancing my resume to better align with the requirements of the [insert job title] position."

Step 2: "Revise the [specific section title] section of my resume based on your previous suggestions. Here is my current Resume/CV: [insert resume]."

Step 3: "Write a three-paragraph cover letter for the [job position], focusing on my expertise in [your experience]. Highlight how these skills are beneficial to a [adjective] [type of company], considering details from my resume provided below. Please also review the company's website [company URL] and the job description [job description link]."

4. ChatGPT Prompt Custom Resume and Cover Letter Based on "About Us" and Job Ad

"Generate a customized resume tailored to the specific job position at [company name] by first providing the 'About Us' page of the company (URL: [company URL]), followed by the job advertisement for which I am applying (URL: [job ad URL]). Once the resume is generated, proceed to create a personalized cover letter specifically designed for [company name] based on the generated resume."

5. ChatGPT Prompt - Tailored Resume Development: Showcasing Skills and Achievements in [Industry]

"Please help me craft a polished and impactful resume tailored for my career in [industry]. I aim to emphasize my skills, experience, and achievements effectively. Sections should include contact details, a compelling summary or objective statement, professional experience, key skills, education, notable achievements, and any other pertinent information. The goal is to create a resume that stands out to potential employers in the industry, showcasing my qualifications and strengths."

6. ChatGPT Prompt for ATS Optimized Resume Work Experience

"Craft ATS-Optimized Work Experience Points Based on This Job Advertisement: [job ad]"

7. ChatGPT Prompt to Score a Resume Based on a Job Description

"Please evaluate this resume for its suitability to the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Assess the resume against the following criteria and provide a score out of 10 for each: relevance of experience in [key skills or responsibilities], alignment of skills with job requirements, appropriateness of educational background and certifications, presence of notable achievements, reflection of keywords from the job description, clarity and organization of format, and any additional factors pertinent to the job description. Please offer detailed feedback where applicable."

8. ChatGPT Prompt to Score a Resume Summary Based on a Job Description

"Assess this resume summary for its alignment with the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Evaluate the summary based on the following criteria and provide a score out of 10 for each: clarity and conciseness in conveying relevant skills and experience, demonstration of understanding of key responsibilities and requirements of the role, inclusion of impactful achievements, reflection of keywords from the job description, professionalism in tone and presentation, and any additional aspects crucial for the job. Please provide detailed feedback where necessary."

9. ChatGPT Prompt to Provide Resume Work Experience Suggestions Based on a Job Description

"Review my work experience and suggest additions based on the job advertisement for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Evaluate the current work experience for alignment with the job requirements and suggest specific additions or enhancements to better match the following criteria: relevance of past roles and responsibilities to the job, skills and competencies demonstrated, achievements and contributions highlighted, industry knowledge and expertise showcased, and any additional elements specified in the job description. Please provide detailed suggestions for improvement."

10. ChatGPT Prompt to Write/Update Your Work Experience Based on a Job Description

"Update my work experience section to align with the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Review the current work experience and revise it to better match the job requirements, emphasizing the following aspects: relevance of past roles and responsibilities to the job, specific skills and competencies demonstrated, key achievements and contributions highlighted, industry knowledge and expertise showcased, and any additional elements specified in the job description. Please provide detailed recommendations on how to enhance the work experience section to better fit the requirements of the role."

11. ChatGPT Prompt to Write Resume Skills Based on Job Ad and Best Match for Your Job Title

"Update my resume skills section to align with the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Evaluate my current skills and revise them to better match the job requirements, emphasizing the following aspects: key skills and competencies sought in the job ad, specific technical proficiencies and soft skills required, industry-specific knowledge or certifications desired, and any additional skills crucial for success in the role. Please provide detailed recommendations on how to enhance the skills section to better fit the requirements of the job title."

12. ChatGPT Prompt to Write Resume Skills Based on Your Job Title - Technical Skills

"Based on the job title I paste here, return the top 20 technical skills. Return one skill per line. Keep them technical. Don't add soft skills."

13. ChatGPT Prompt to Improve the Impact of Work Experience

"Rewrite my work experience to make it more impactful in front of a recruiter. Highlight my best achievemnts and reorder the work experience bullet points in the order of impact. Most impactful at the top"

  • Can ChatGPT Review Your Resume?

Yes, ChatGPT can review your resume. It offers constructive feedback to refine and optimize your resume's content, structure, and language. ChatGPT can help enhance the clarity and impact of your resume, making it more attractive.

ChatGPT Prompt : Review my resume and offer constructive feedback that will make my resume more impactful in front of potential employers.

Madison Norton

Madison Norton

VP Marketing & Resume Expert

Madison is the VP Marketing and General Manager at VisualCV . He's a seasoned marketing leader, resume writing and career marketing expert and now helping people grow their own career marketing strategies to build a career they love.

Madison on LinkedIn

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Resume formatting tips and examples for all jobs and experience levels. Learn how to best format your resume and land that dream job in 2024!

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I asked the new ChatGPT to find me a job and was surprised by what it came up with

  • ChatGPT can now do your job hunting for you.
  • The bot can access the internet through a new update, allowing it to trawl job sites.
  • I tested ChatGPT's recruiting skills. It sped up the job-hunting process but did make some mistakes.

Insider Today

ChatGPT now looks like a very useful tool if you're trying to find a job.

Not only can the bot write convincing cover letters and spruce up a CV — but a new update means the AI assistant can do your job hunting for you.

As companies advertise on various platforms and job boards, finding the right role can mean trawling through several websites and monitoring company careers pages.

While sites such as LinkedIn draw from many of these sources, it can still feel like you risk missing the perfect role by not covering all your bases.

This is where the updated version of ChatGPT can be helpful.

OpenAI recently rolled out a version of the bot equipped with its new flagship model, GPT-4o, which can access the internet. The company's previous GPT-4 model could also link up with Bing but was available only to ChatGPT Plus subscribers.

Job seekers sick of wading through hiring boards may turn to recruiters to cut out the legwork. With a new update, ChatGPT can act as your free personal recruiter.

Job hunting

I decided to put ChatGPT's recruiting skills to the test.

I told the bot about the sort of role I was looking for, explained my experience, and sent it on its way.

The bot returned with six opportunities, all matching the experience listed on the CV I supplied. It also helpfully summarized each role's main features — location, salary, and responsibilities — and included the date the ad was posted.

Related stories

The results were largely accurate, though the salary of one job was slightly misstated.

It also provided a few tips on applying for the roles, suggesting I tailor my CV to the role and find people from the company to connect with on networking sites like LinkedIn.

After identifying my favorite job opportunity, I asked the bot to run another search for who I should contact at the company while applying.

The bot came back with five managers and recruiters in the correct department and even wrote me a short LinkedIn message I could send to follow up on my application.

The bot did get confused by its own hallucinations once or twice. In an earlier test, ChatGPT sent me one job I couldn't track down. After some probing, the bot acknowledged the role probably wasn't real.

I found that asking the bot to send full links to the jobs that I could copy and paste helped keep it focused on providing genuine opportunities. Still, it underlined the importance of treating the results skeptically before putting any work into an application.

It's not news that ChatGPT can help job seekers write a killer cover letter, but the new update allows for some more specific back-and-forth.

The bot can also crawl the web to find out who else is on the team and suggest where to direct follow-up messages.

ChatGPT even wrote me an analysis of how well my experience aligned with a job's requirements, evaluated my likelihood of landing the role, and gave me some tips to increase my chances of getting it.

I also asked ChatGPT to tailor my CV to the role and write a quick cover letter .

Within about half an hour I'd found a job and had an application ready to go.

While I didn't submit it, I know what to do next time I'm in the market for a new gig.

Have you used GPT-4o to find a job? Contact this reporter at [email protected].

Watch: What is ChatGPT, and should we be afraid of AI chatbots?

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COMMENTS

  1. How to Write a Cover Letter Using ChatGPT (+Prompt Template)

    Here's a quick rundown of how to write a cover letter using ChatGPT in 7 steps: Sign up and create a free account on OpenAI. Ask ChatGPT what information it needs from you to write a cover letter. Ask ChatGPT to create an example prompt that contains all the information it required from you in the previous step.

  2. Using ChatGPT to Write a Strong Cover Letter

    Start your ChatGPT prompt by telling the chatbot what you're looking for. For example: I need you to write a cover letter for my application at [insert company name]. Please base the letter on the job description below. Then, copy and paste the description from the original job posting.

  3. How to Use ChatGPT to Write a Cover Letter: Easy Guide

    Start with your initial request for a cover letter, followed by the job description, your experience, and then your word limit. The word limit will help prevent ChatGPT from stopping mid-sentence. Use the following prompt and tailor it as necessary: Write me a cover letter using the following job description and my resume for reference.

  4. How to Get ChatGPT to Write You a Cover Letter; Step by Step Guide

    Step 6: Generate the cover letter and revise it with ChatGPT. Once you've approved its strategic approach, ChatGPT will generate the cover letter. It will generate a first draft but probably won't ...

  5. 6 Common Mistakes Job Seekers Make When Using ChatGPT To Generate Cover

    Then tell the bot to write a cover letter for that particular job . At first glance, the cover letter ChatGPT generates for you might appear to be good. But there are two problems with this approach: 1) The letter won't reflect your accomplishments and experience. 2) You'll probably be found out by the hiring manager.

  6. Making a Chat GPT Cover Letter: The Good, Bad, & Ugly

    Make my cover [number of words] words maximum. After filling in the details, here's what ChatGPT produced from this prompt: Chat GPT generated this cover letter in seconds. 3. Review your content and make edits. After generating your cover letter using ChatGPT, review your content and make any necessary edits.

  7. How to use ChatGPT to write a cover letter (and why you should)

    2. Ask ChatGPT to write you a cover letter. To have ChatGPT generate a cover letter for you, all you have to do is ask ChatGPT to write a cover letter for the role and company of your choice. You ...

  8. How to Use ChatGPT to Write a Cover Letter

    Gather the information below to get started. Your contact information: If you want ChatGPT to include these details in your letter, provide your full name, address, phone number and email address. Recipient's contact information: If known, provide the recipient's name, title, company name and address. Job title and company name: Specify the ...

  9. How to Use ChatGPT to Write a Cover Letter in 2024

    Use the following contact information to address this cover letter: [contact information]. Tailor this cover letter to the requirements of this job ad: [job ad]. Mention some of my accomplishments and qualifications from the list below: [list of achievements not present in your resume]. 4. Edit Your ChatGPT Cover Letter.

  10. How To Use ChatGPT To Write Resume & Cover Letter

    The more specific data you can train ChatGPT on, the more relevant the responses will be. If you're using ChatGPT to help you write a resume or cover letter, you'll probably want to run at least 3-4 cycles, getting more specific and feeding additional information each round, Mandy says. "Keep telling it to refine things," she says.

  11. How to write a cover letter using ChatGPT

    How to use ChatGPT to write a cover letter. Writing a great cover letter can be a time-consuming task, but with ChatGPT it can be more like tailoring a ready-made template. First, you will need to ...

  12. How to Use ChatGPT to Generate a Cover Letter That Will ...

    Step 1 - Sign up for ChatGPT. Signing up for ChatGPT is super easy. Go to chat.OpenAi.com and register for an account with an email address, or a Google or Microsoft account. You'll then be taken to the homepage, which looks like this: The chat bar at the bottom of the screen is where you type in your prompts.

  13. How to Use ChatGPT to Write Your Cover Letter in 2024

    4. Apply it to a cover letter template. When you use ChatGPT to write your cover letter, it will do so, but it won't generate a template for it. Cover letter templates make sure your cover letter has a clear structure. They organise it neatly so that whoever reads it can follow along easily, from the start to the end.

  14. Use ChatGPT to write resumes & cover letters

    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 ...

  15. 21 ChatGPT Prompts to Get You to Start Writing Your Cover Letter

    ChatGPT works as so: you write a prompt (a well-formulated, clear, and concise question or instructions). Within a few seconds, the AI chatbot provides you with a response to your query. What is more, candidates have been using ChatGPT to restructure their resumes, prepare for interviews, and even write cover letters.

  16. How to Write Your Cover Letter Using ChatGPT

    4. Prompt ChatGPT to Write the Elements of Your Cover Letter. Once you've submitted the job description, the next step is to ask for a cover letter. Instead of asking it to write one document, you can ask it to focus on each part of your cover letter to create a more focused one.

  17. Write a Cover Letter with ChatGPT

    Here's how to interact effectively with ChatGPT to receive the best assistance in creating a cover letter that stands out. Initiating the Conversation: Start by clearly stating your request. For example, "I need help writing a cover letter for a software engineering position.".

  18. How to Use ChatGPT to Write a Cover Letter

    Here are a few ways that will help you gain clarity: Read the job description. Read the job description carefully and take note of the required skills and qualifications. Identify the keywords used in the job description. Later you will be able to request ChatGPT to include some of these keywords in your cover letter.

  19. How To Use ChatGPT To Create a Cover Letter

    Highlight specific aspects of the job that align with your career goals, values, or areas of interest. Tell ChatGPT why you want the job before asking it to write the cover letter, or ask it to generate a paragraph about why you want the job to get a basic starting point. 6. Relay any additional points you want to highlight.

  20. How to use ChatGPT to write a cover letter

    Step 1: Plan it out. As this ChatGPT response indicates, you first need to plan and outline the details you want to include. ChatGPT can't write an effective cover letter without information about ...

  21. The real way to write Cover Letters using ChatGPT : r/GetEmployed

    Write a cover letter for the job in the job description by matching qualifications from my resume to the job description provided. Keep the cover letter very short, three paragraphs at most. Keep the language relatively casual: With this setup, you should get a result from ChatGPT that is similar to this: Dear Hiring Manager,

  22. How Job Seekers Are Using ChatGPT to Write Cover Letters, Land a Job

    Advertisement. Over on TikTok, potential applicants are guiding fellow jobseekers to put full job descriptions into the chatbot, and asking ChatGPT to write a cover letter based on those needs ...

  23. How I write genuinely good cover letters with ChatGPT : r/ChatGPT

    Here's how I do it: 1) Set a Role and Style for ChatGPT. Assign a role to ChatGPT to guide its output. For instance, you could start with: "You are a cover letter generator. Your task is to create [your tone here] and concise cover letters." The tone should be tailored to the job, but a professional style is generally suitable.

  24. ChatGPT

    Welcome to the ChatGPT Cover Letter Maker, your personalized assistant in crafting impressive cover letters that sound genuinely human and stand out from the crowd. Unlike standard ChatGPT responses, our tool is designed to give you a competitive edge in your job applications.

  25. How to Use ChatGPT to Find the Job of Your Dreams

    Create your resume and a custom cover letter and curate your job search, all with the help of artificial intelligence. AI tools are being used in HR to streamline an otherwise arduous process.

  26. How to Use ChatGPT To Write a Resume

    To use ChatGPT to write your resume even faster, skip providing all of the information manually, use the GPT-4 model and upload your PDF resume and ask to write, expand, improve or customize your resume. Should You Use ChatGPT to Write Your Resume. Yes, using ChatGPT to write your resume is a common practice today.

  27. I Asked ChatGPT to Find Me a Job. What It Came up With Surprised Me

    Not only can ChatGPT write convincing cover letters and spruce up a CV, but a new update means the AI assistant can do the job hunting for you. Menu icon A vertical stack of three evenly spaced ...

  28. ChatGPT

    Just ask and ChatGPT can help with writing, learning, brainstorming, and more. Start now (opens in a new window) Download the app. ... Tell me a fun fact about the Roman Empire (opens in a new window) ... Access to GPT-4, GPT-4o, GPT-3.5. Up to 5x more messages for GPT-4o. Access to advanced data analysis, file uploads, vision, and web browsing ...

  29. AI Image Generator

    What is a AI Image Generator AI Image Generator is an innovative tool using advanced AI techniques to generate image from a text prompt, just write what you want to generate and our AI will create it. How does AI Generate Images? AI Image Generator creates images with vibrant colors and high quality right out of the box.