How to effectively use AI for CV writing
How to effectively use AI for CV writing
Let’s face it, writing your CV isn’t the most enthralling use of time, however, the temptation to use AI can reduce your success rate.
Artificial intelligence is now firmly embedded in the recruitment process — and the CV is no exception.
Over the past 12 months, we’ve seen a sharp increase in candidates using AI tools to draft, refine, or completely rewrite their CVs. In theory, this should level the playing field: clearer structure, better articulation, fewer errors.
In practice, however, the rise of the AI-generated CV has introduced a new set of challenges — and in some cases, unintended consequences.
Why AI CVs Are Raising Concerns
From a hiring perspective, AI-written CVs can sometimes create immediate scepticism.
When multiple CVs arrive using similar phrasing, identical sentence structures, and generic “leadership impact” language, it becomes harder for hiring managers to distinguish real experience from polished narrative.
At worst, AI CVs can signal:
A lack of personal effort or ownership Over-inflated or vague claims Experience that sounds impressive but lacks substance A disconnect between written CV and interview reality
In a market where trust and credibility matter — particularly at senior level — this can be damaging.
We have also seen an increase in CVs that read exceptionally well on paper, only for significant gaps to emerge when candidates are questioned on delivery, technical depth, or decision-making responsibility.
That mismatch erodes confidence quickly.
The Built Environment Context
In the built environment, credibility is everything.
Project outcomes, cost control, stakeholder management, and risk mitigation cannot be faked. Hiring managers are acutely aware of this — and many are now approaching overly polished CVs with caution.
Senior leaders, in particular, are less interested in buzzwords and more interested in:
What you actually delivered The scale and complexity of your work Your decision-making authority How you operate under pressure
An AI-generated CV that prioritises style over substance can work against you.
AI Isn’t the Problem — How It’s Used Is
Used correctly, AI can be a powerful support tool. Used poorly, it becomes a liability.
The most effective candidates treat AI as an editor, not an author. The CV still needs to sound like you, reflect your real experience, and stand up to scrutiny in interview.
AI should help you communicate your value — not invent it.
Kingsley Checklist: How to Use AI to Write Your CV Effectively
If you are using AI to support your CV, here’s how to do it properly.
Start With Your Own Content
Write your CV first — even if it’s rough.
AI works best when refining your experience, not creating it from scratch. The more authentic the input, the better the output.
Be Specific About What You’ve Done
Avoid vague prompts.
Instead of asking AI to “improve my CV”, ask it to:
Clarify outcomes Tighten language Improve structure Remove repetition
Specific experience always beats generic polish.
Avoid Inflating Your Role
Never ask AI to “make this sound more senior”.
If you didn’t hold P&L responsibility, lead the programme, or sign off decisions — don’t imply that you did. These gaps are exposed very quickly in interview.
Strip Out the Buzzwords
Phrases like “dynamic leader”, “strategic visionary”, “results-driven professional” are red flags when overused.
Strong CVs show impact through evidence, not adjectives.
Sense-Check for Reality
Before sending your CV, ask yourself:
Can I comfortably talk through every line in interview? Can I give examples to support each claim? Does this sound like how I actually speak?
If the answer is no, revise it.
Keep Your Voice
Your CV should reflect you, not a template.
AI often flattens personality. Senior hiring decisions are influenced as much by clarity and judgement as by credentials — don’t lose that.
Use AI for Formatting, Not Fabrication
AI is excellent at:
Structuring information Improving flow Correcting grammar Aligning layout
It should never be used to invent experience or exaggerate scope.
The Kingsley View
AI isn’t going away — and it shouldn’t.
But in recruitment, particularly within the built environment, credibility still matters more than presentation. A well-written CV that doesn’t reflect reality will do more harm than good.
The strongest candidates use AI to clarify their story, not rewrite it.
If you’re unsure whether your CV strikes the right balance, that’s where honest feedback matters — and where a trusted recruitment partner can add real value.
