Using ChatGPT or AI for your CV without putting yourself at risk
General AI writes fast and well but tends to embellish: "took part" becomes "led", a figure appears, a skill is added. In an interview, each embellishment becomes a risk.
What AI does well
- Turning vague experience into clear action sentences.
- Reordering experience for the ad.
- Translating.
- Spotting typos and long sentences.
What it invents
Figures, responsibilities, tools and certifications, to make the text more convincing. You are the one signing.
| Option | Cost | Strength | Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| General AI (ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude…) | Free or subscription | Available any time, rephrases well | May invent, does not always know the job ad |
| Friend or former colleague | Free | Knows the job and the field | Availability, may be too kind |
| Employment agency adviser | Free | Knows local recruiters | Waiting time for appointments |
| Specialised tool (EmploiZen…) | Free, from 300 CFA francs depending on use | Compares the CV to the job ad, guards against invention | Does not replace human judgement on substance |
The best result often combines both: a tool for form, a person for substance.
The 4-step method
- Give the AI only your real facts as a list.
- Ask it to rephrase without adding anything.
- Compare line by line and delete additions.
- Read aloud: can you explain each line in an interview?
Frequently asked questions
Is it wrong to use AI for a CV?
No. Sending false information is the problem.
How do I stop ChatGPT inventing?
Give only your facts, ask it to add nothing and check every line.
Can AI write my whole cover letter?
It can draft; the final letter must hold your facts and voice.
Kpak is published by the EmploiZen team, one of the tools mentioned in this article. Our transparency policy
