Shelby Young has been unemployed since the end of August.
The 70-year-old Indianapolis resident has been submitting her resume to medical sales job postings for two months without much luck.
She’s had a few interviews, but she suspects she could be getting more if companies weren’t using artificial intelligence to screen resumes.
Young says she can usually tell when her resume has been weeded out.
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“It’s almost an immediate rejection,” she said.
Young is not alone. Over half a dozen jobseekers told Mirror Indy they’ve suspected that their resumes aren’t getting through a company’s application systems.
While each situation is unique, that could be because companies are increasingly using AI to scan and filter out resumes. Most large companies use software called an applicant tracking system to automate and manage job applications. That software often uses AI to screen applicants’ resumes and identify which candidates get through to the interview process.
If you apply for a job and never hear back, it could be because your resume didn’t match with the job description — even if you were qualified.
“That’s why no one’s calling,” said Kenya Whatley, a workshop facilitator for WorkOne Indy.
Through WorkOne, Whatley teaches jobseekers how to use Hardly, an AI tool that customizes resumes to match job descriptions.
And though Whatley recommends using the AI tool, there are some tactics you can use to AI-proof your resume by hand.
Build a better resume
These days, it’s important to tailor your resume to each job you apply for. Matching your resume to a job description, Whatley said, gives you the best chance at getting through the AI filters.
Start out by writing an introduction for the top of your resume that gives an overview of who you are, your qualifications and your goals. Whatley recommends keeping it short — two sentences, three at most.
One of the main ways that AI can screen out resumes is through keywords. You can get around that by matching words in the job posting to words on your resume. Look for the words that are repeated most in the job description, Whatley said, and work those into your resume.
For example, if a job description lists “collaboration” as a required skill, and that’s something you’re good at, try listing “collaboration” as one of your own skills. That could make it easier for AI to match your resume to the job. Don’t overdo it, though — work those keywords in naturally.
When applying for a position, Whatley said, try to think about how your experience and skills will help you do this particular job. Then, write your resume accordingly.
Hardly, the AI tool that WorkOne recommends, will score resumes based on how closely they align with any given job posting. If you use the model, Whatley recommends aiming for a score between 80% and 90%.
“If they overload it with things that are not required by the job, it will bring the score down,” she said.
If you put your resume through Hardly or another AI model, make sure you check everything to ensure that the tool didn’t insert an error. Generative AI can invent or “hallucinate” details that aren’t correct.
It’s important to check not just for typos or spelling mistakes, but also that your resume accurately reflects your experience and skills.
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Learn more
WorkOne Indy hosts free resume workshops each Thursday at 4410 Shadeland Ave.
There are two sessions that cover resumes. The first is “Build Your Resume with Hardly” and the second is “Customize Your Resume for More Interviews.” Check the schedule online to see when the classes are held.
WorkOne sessions are free, but you’ll need to register in advance using your Indiana Career Connect account.
The Indianapolis Public Library also hosts resume workshops every couple of weeks. Check the event schedules online for more information.
Mirror Indy, a nonprofit newsroom, is funded through grants and donations from individuals, foundations and organizations.
Claire Rafford covers higher education for Mirror Indy in partnership with Open Campus. Contact Claire by email claire.rafford@mirrorindy.org, at 317-759-0249 or on most social media @clairerafford.
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