What is generative AI?

Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence (AI) used to create new content based on large language models trained on text, visual, and audio data in response to prompts. One of the most popular generative AI tools is ChatGPT and also Microsoft’s Copilot. You can get free versions of some of the tools to try out.

How can it support your career?

Used with effective prompts, tools such as ChatGPT can be helpful in generating ideas on topics such as:

• Types of interview questions you might get
• How to structure a cover letter
• How to structure a CV
• What kind of career options are open to you
• Who are the main employers in a particular sector (by location)

Things to be aware of

However, when using a tool like ChatGPT, it’s wise to be aware of the following:

• Hallucinations – inaccurate or misleading content being generated
• Ethics – including proper attribution of sources, use of natural resources, environmental impact
• Equality and diversity – potential for biases to be perpetuated
• Security of data – is your data private and where is it being stored?

These topics are covered in more detail in the Generative AI at Westminster course on BlackBoard. To access this course, login to Blackboard and, on your My Modules and Courses’ page, click on ‘Generative AI at Westminster’. Also, you can access further information on and from this student hub page.

When applicants use generative AI tools to write CVs, cover letters and application answers, this can lead to every application being similar. Employers tell us they are not getting a true picture of an applicant’s skills, suitability and personality. When used for interview preparation, it may lead to a lack of authenticity in the answers.

What do employers think?

Employers have varied views on applicants using generative AI tools to assist their applications. Before making an application check first if the employer is providing any guidance on their website about what they think is acceptable usage of any AI tools. Some employers may make it clear that they do not accept any use of AI whatsoever, whilst others may have a different approach. Some employers may not have considered this at all, in which case you should use your judgement based on the things to be aware of mentioned above. This especially applies to cover letters/supporting statements and answers on application forms. Employers are starting to see many applications that look the same, and they don’t always make sense. Applications like these are likely to be rejected very quickly in the selection process.

Actions you can take

• Before making applications, check employer instructions and any specific advice for applicants. Follow this advice or risk your application being rejected early in the selection process.
• If you are using ChatGPT or similar tools to support your applications, use them for inspiration only and then adapt your own content to ensure it reflects you as an individual and makes sense based on what you have been asked to submit. Do not simply copy and paste from an AI-generated response. This also prevents unwanted formatting being carried across to a new document.
• Check any factual information, such as company details, against original sources
• Be careful about the data you are uploading to any generative AI systems, and check any privacy notices, particularly if it is not one that the University recommends (such as the AI in Grammarly).

If you need any further help with perfecting your applications and preparing for interviews, why not speak to a human being – one of our team! Book for a 20-minute appointment via Engage, and don’t leave it to the last minute before the application deadline.

For further information about using Generative AI, see: https://www.westminster.ac.uk/current-students/studies/study-skills-and-training/guidance-for-students-on-using-generative-ai

Good luck!

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Big thanks to Tracey Wells, our Careers and Employability Service manager, for writing this blog post. We hope you find it useful and it inspires you to make the best of AI software in a responsible manner.

Please be reminder that if you need careers support, your Careers Team is only an email / a message away!

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