Should You Use AI to Write Your CV? Here's What Recruiters Really Want
With 56% of recruiters reporting that they often or always receive CVs that contain AI-generated text, here's what you can do to stand out in a competitive job market in 2026.
For many recent graduates, AI has been a constant throughout their education, so it's no surprise that it's becoming part of the job search too. In fact, 43% of UK graduates have used AI to edit a CV or cover letter, while 35% have used it to write one from scratch in 2025.
As someone who supports students in their job search every day, I know that by harnessing AI’s capabilities, rather than being dependent on it, you will be able to create a CV that stands out from the crowd.
Written by
Sophi Barnes is an experienced Careers Services Consultant with a strong background in career coaching and deep expertise in the tech and project management job markets. She's passionate about supporting people through career transitions and into roles where they can thrive.
The AI ‘Red Flags’ Hiring Managers Look Out For
Recruiters and jobseekers alike are becoming more familiar with AI-generated applications such as ChatGPT, Gemini, CoPilot and more. According to a recent report by Kickresume, more than half (56%) of recruiters say they often or always receive CVs that contain AI-generated text.
As more people rely on the same prompts and tools, many CVs begin to sound remarkably similar, making it harder for individuals to stand out. Some employers are now using AI detection software to identify heavily AI-generated applications. The strongest CVs are those that combine the efficiency of AI with authentic examples, measurable achievements and a genuine reflection of your skills and experience. It’s all about nailing that 50/50 balance of human and AI skills.
"One of the biggest drawbacks of relying too heavily on AI is that it can strip away the individuality that makes your CV memorable. In my CV-writing masterclasses, I always emphasise that while AI can help improve structure and wording, it can't capture your unique experiences, motivations or achievements in the same way you can. Your CV should do more than list your work history; it should reflect who you are, the value you've brought to previous roles, and what sets you apart from other candidates."
Signs Your CV Relies Too Heavily on AI
While there's nothing wrong with using AI to support your CV-writing, relying on it too heavily can result in an application that feels generic. Here are some common signs:
- Long paragraphs instead of concise bullet points: According to job board Indeed, employers spend just 7.4 seconds on average looking at a CV, so clear, easy-to-read formatting is essential. Use short bullet points to highlight your responsibilities, achievements and measurable results, making it easy for employers to quickly identify your strengths.
- Generic language and overused phrases: AI-generated CVs often include vague statements such as "results-driven professional" or "excellent communication skills." Replace these with specific examples of your impact, such as projects you've delivered, targets you've exceeded or improvements you've made.
- Lack of personal context: AI doesn't know your career journey, motivations or proudest achievements unless you tell it. Strengthen your CV by including evidence of your experience, such as relevant certifications, quantified results and examples that demonstrate the value you brought to previous roles.
- Achievements without evidence: Rather than simply listing skills, show how you've applied them. Adding figures, outcomes or recognisable accomplishments helps recruiters understand the difference you've made and makes your CV far more powerful.
How to Make Your CV Stand Out in the Age of AI
While AI can be a valuable tool for saving time and overcoming writer's block, it works best as an assistant rather than the author of your CV. Instead of asking AI to generate your entire CV, use it to review your existing draft, identify gaps, suggest improvements to formatting, or highlight areas where you could include more evidence of your achievements.
For example, AI can remind you to add relevant certifications, quantify your accomplishments with statistics, or explain gaps in your employment history. Still, the wording and examples should come from your own experience
Benefit From Our AI-Informed Career Support
Learning People is here to help you pursue a successful career in tech or project management, from enrolment to employment. All our training pathways include industry-specific AI modules to help you stand out in a competitive job market.
You’ll also have access to Career Services, where we’ll support you in your job search via 1:1 calls and masterclasses. In fact, students who complete all three phases of our Career Services programme achieve 97% employment success. Take the first step by booking a free career consultation today.
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