ChatGPT Resumes Real Test Pros And Cons

Artificial Intelligence AI has permeated nearly every aspect of modern life. Now, many individuals are leveraging AI to draft their resumes and cover letters. While technology that simplifies tasks is welcome, the quality of an AI generated resume warrants examination.

This article details an experiment using ChatGPT to create a resume for a fictional high school student, Tobias Newby, aiming for an entry level tech job with limited experience babysitting and working at Taco Bell. The initial prompt was simple: "Help me create a resume for an entry level job."

ChatGPT responded promptly: "I’d be happy to help! To get started, could you tell me a bit more about your background? Specifically: Name and contact information; Job or industry you’re targeting; Education history; Any work, volunteer or internship experience; Skills (technical, language or soft skills); Certifications, awards or extracurricular activities. Once I have that, I can generate a professional, clean resume tailored to your goals."

The user provided Tobias Newby's name (forgetting contact details), targeted entry level high tech jobs, mentioned his school (without a graduation date), his Taco Bell and babysitting jobs, and familiarity with Google Docs.

ChatGPT produced a resume that appeared decent at first glance.

What I Liked and Disliked About the ChatGPT Resume

Here's a breakdown of the AI generated resume's strengths and weaknesses:

• Speed: The resume was generated in seconds, ideal for urgent needs.
• Contact Information Prompt: ChatGPT helpfully included a placeholder for contact information, which was initially forgotten.
• Objective Statement: The objective was unique but not specifically tailored to the tech industry, unlikely to impress a recruiter.
• Work Experience Bullets: The bullets for the Taco Bell job were acceptable, but could have been more impactful. The truthfulness of these AI generated bullets for Tobias is also a consideration.
• Personalization and Impact: The resume lacked personalization and failed to highlight the results of Tobias's work.

A significant concern arose when ChatGPT introduced details not provided in the prompt. For example, it assumed a graduation date of May 2025 and listed Google Slides as a skill, which was not mentioned.

Limitations of Relying Solely on AI

The experiment highlighted a key limitation: ChatGPT does not prompt for all potentially helpful details. For instance, experience like playing Fortnite might be relevant for certain industries such as gaming, but AI wouldn't suggest including it. Users must proactively consider all relevant aspects of their background.

The AI also used the phrase "willingness to learn," which is often seen as overused and unconvincing by employers who prefer demonstrated learning capabilities. It's better to showcase experiences where rapid learning occurred.

AI as a Starting Point Not a Final Solution

Creating a resume with minimal relevant job experience is challenging. In this context, ChatGPT can be a useful tool for generating a first draft. It provides a foundation that can be developed into a much stronger document.

However, the AI generated resume alone is unlikely to secure a dream job in the tech industry. To achieve that, several steps are crucial:

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to each specific job advertisement. ChatGPT might offer some assistance here.
• Provide Specifics and Impactful Results: This requires self reflection and detailing your accomplishments. AI cannot do this for you.
• Identify All Relevant Skills: Think deeply about experiences and skills that may not be obvious but are pertinent to the job.
• Verify Accuracy: Meticulously check every line of the AI generated resume. ChatGPT can invent information, and you are responsible for ensuring your resume is truthful.
• Seek Human Feedback: Get input from trusted mentors to polish and strengthen your resume. AI cannot replace their expertise.

The Overall Verdict

The ChatGPT resume is presentable but not outstanding. It fails to convey Tobias's personality or his suitability for the role. It lacks the compelling qualities needed to secure an interview, let alone a job offer. It serves as a preliminary draft, but human intelligence and effort are essential to complete the task effectively.

Anne Chan is a career consultant and licensed California psychotherapist. She specializes in helping people find happiness in their careers and lives. You can reach her at an********@**il.com Copyright Anne Chan, 2025

Resume Created by ChatGPT

Tobias Newby Fremont, CA (your phone number) | (your email address) | LinkedIn (optional)

Objective

Motivated high school senior with strong communication skills and hands on experience in customer service and childcare. Eager to bring a strong work ethic and growing technical skills to an entry level role in the tech industry.

Education

American High School – Fremont, CA High School Diploma (Expected May 2025)

Experience

Taco Bell – Fremont, CA Crew Member | June 2024 – Present

• Provided excellent customer service in a fast paced environment
• Operated point of sale systems and handled cash transactions accurately
• Maintained cleanliness and organization in kitchen and dining areas
• Collaborated with team members to meet peak hour demands efficiently

Self-Employed – Fremont, CA Babysitter | 2023 – Present

• Cared for children ages 3–10 during evenings and weekends
• Communicated regularly with parents and ensured safety at all times
• Developed activities to keep children engaged and entertained

Skills

• Digital Tools: Google Docs, Google Slides
• Soft Skills: Customer Service, Time Management, Communication, Responsibility
• Willingness to Learn: Strong interest in developing technical and coding skills

Extracurriculars & Interests (optional section)

• Passionate about technology and learning new digital tools
• Exploring online resources to develop tech knowledge (e.g., YouTube, tutorials)