The Human Touch With AI

Dr. Brittany Castonguay

As Seen On: MichCDA Monthly Newsletter | November 2025

https://www.michcda.org/

AI can perform many tasks that replace the “human” aspect in Human Resources (HR), but it cannot do it all. When it comes to the job search, AI has streamlined a lot of the recruitment process. HR professionals utilize AI to assist with updating job descriptions and creating keywords to filter out applicants, such as the Applicant Tracking System (ATS). AI sends automated emails, schedules appointments, and even assists with onboarding new hires.

As a job seeker, you can also use AI to create an authentic human interaction without stretching the truth. Think of it as reverse engineering. Every application you submit must be tailored to the specific job position and the company for which you are applying. In addition to a tailored resume, you will need to write an authentic and compelling cover letter. Cover letters set you apart and give you more space to tell your story, creating a human connection before they even interview you.

Yes, the goal here is to get a job. Before that, you must communicate your awesomeness through a paper that will receive very little attention. Let’s talk about how you reverse-engineer the job application process, use AI, and create a tailored resume and authentic cover letter to create a human connection.

First, your job search should be specific. Applying for everything, even if you are unqualified or would be miserable, is counterproductive. The old adage that there are a lot of fish in the sea also applies to job seeking. You want to bait your fishing rod with the bait that will catch your ideal fish. In this instance, you can use AI to schedule recurring events to search websites for job postings. The more specific you are, the better your results will be. I recommend writing a list of your must-haves, the like to haves, and consider your non-negotiables. AI will provide you with a synopsis of each qualified lead, along with a link to apply for the job.

Next, ask AI to research the company, specifically looking for its mission and values. If their values do not align with your own, do not apply because you will be miserable! If you are a like-minded match, ask AI to help you craft your cover letter using your resume, LinkedIn, the company’s mission and values, and any pertinent information to write the letter. You will want to review and edit the cover letter for accuracy, language, tone, and authenticity. If you submit a product that does not accurately represent you, your new company will find out, and it will not be a pleasant experience. AI is a tool, not a replacement.

For a targeted resume, I recommend asking AI to analyze the job description for keywords and provide guidance on how to quantify and enhance your resume to create a targeted, ATS-friendly document. AI should not write your resume; instead, it should help you improve your resume by aligning keywords and identifying potential areas of weakness between the job description qualifications and your resume. Hallucinations in AI are a possible blind spot, which is why it’s essential to be aware of what you tell AI and thoroughly analyze its products. I tell mine not to produce any hallucinations, and only to consider what I attached. In this case, my resume and the job description. I have found that these instructions help to reduce potential errors.

The goal here is to use AI to enhance the job application process, streamline the research, and still produce quality products that showcase our awesomeness without overstepping or stretching the truth. AI has become an integrated part of our society, and as a job seeker, we can leverage its usefulness to display the human behind the application.