Robert Half exec details how to use AI to snag a tech job — and what not to do

As tech hiring has slowed to a near standstill, organizations have begun using generative AI (genAI) to screen hiring prospects — or replace entry-level employees — and some are even using the technology to interview job candidates. The result is a topsy-turvy job market that has made finding work in IT more difficult than ever.

In April, employer hiring fell to its slowest pace in more than a decade, excluding the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. “It’s happening in every industry,” according to a study by the nonprofit ISC2 (International Information System Security Certification Consortium).

Job cuts in the tech industry and at federal government agencies have led the way in layoffs in recent job market reports, driven by economic pressure, programmatic firings and AI-driven shifts in workforce needs, according to outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas.

So it’s not surprising that many organizations are taking a wait-and-see approach to hiring, especially as they wait to see how AI may be able to replace some billets. A recent Brookings Institute report on genAI found that the more highly skilled a tech worker is, the more vulnerable they are to having their jobs supplemented by technology.

Global staffing firm Robert Half recently surveyed nearly 1,000 U.S. workers, including 144 in tech, and found that 35% of tech workers say the biggest challenge of job hunting is finding a role that matches their skills. Another 30% of those surveyed said they struggled with preparing for a job interview, compared to just 22% of other job seekers. And nearly one-in-five tech job seekers find if difficult to draft job applications that stand out.

With that backdrop, Computerworld interviewed George Denlinger, operational president of Robert Half, for insights into how to use genAI to assist in finding and landing a tech job.

How can you craft an application to stand out using genAI? “Candidates can use these tools to catch spelling and grammar errors, identify industry-specific language and formatting, and help translate technical achievements into clear, impact-driven statements tailored to the role. When used thoughtfully, genAI helps elevate your application without losing the authenticity of your experience.”

What successes are people seeing using the technology in their job searches? “People who find success from using genAI in their job searches use it thoughtfully and strategically. At the outset of the process, AI can help streamline repetitive tasks, such as researching companies, narrowing their job searches, tailoring and customizing application materials, and optimizing professional social media accounts like LinkedIn. We’ve also seen candidates leverage genAI to identify companies that use specific tech stacks aligned with their skills and experience.

“I also know of job seekers who have found success using genAI to prepare for interviews. There are tools that can help candidates anticipate common and role-specific questions, simulate realistic interview scenarios, and organize their responses. Practicing in this way not only sharpens communication but also helps candidates feel more focused, articulate, and confident going into their interviews.

What mistakes do people make when using genAI in their job searches? “We are seeing AI tools used during interviews in ways that could raise ethical concerns, such as using genAI in real time to receive support during the [job interview] conversation. Employers are becoming increasingly aware of this type of usage and will likely remove such candidates from consideration.

“Another common mistake we see in job searches today is relying too heavily on genAI to craft application materials, especially resumes. Some candidates are copying job descriptions or AI-recommended terms word-for-word into their resumes, without any real knowledge of them. This may result in candidates being unable to explain or expand on the qualifications listed, creating a disconnect during interviews. It can even lead to individuals landing roles based on inflated or misrepresented skills, only to find themselves unprepared for the responsibilities and expectations of the job.

“While misrepresenting experience has never been acceptable, genAI has made it easier to do so.”

What’s the right way to use genAI in a job search, including creating an application and resume? “GenAI is best used as a support tool in the job search process and not as a replacement for your personal insight and experience. It can help with identifying relevant keywords, structuring your resume, and drafting content, but the final product should include the human touch. Most employers can recognize AI-generated responses, so the better way to connect is by genuinely expressing your character and interest in the role and company.

“As more applicants rely on AI to help generate materials, personalization is more important than ever. Employers want to see how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios: the systems you’ve built, the teams you’ve led, the solutions you’ve brought, and the skills you’re continuing to build. They’re looking for traits that can’t always be captured by a generic, AI-polished resume. Use genAI to help with structure and clarity, but make sure your own contributions and voice come through.”

Are people relying too much on AI for job searches now and, if so, why is that bad? “There needs to be a thoughtful balance when using AI throughout the job search process. While genAI is becoming a common tool for applicants, human interaction remains essential. Building professional connections or leveraging referrals continues to be one of the most effective ways to land a role.

“And while not everyone is misusing AI, all job seekers should be mindful of not becoming overly reliant on it. The goal is to enhance your application, not to let AI take over the parts that should reflect your own experience and personality — which are often things employers need to see when staffing a role.

“AI can be a powerful asset for a job search, but it’s the human touch that will set candidates apart, especially as it can’t replicate interpersonal skills, creativity, leadership, or adaptability. Further, the overuse of genAI tools is often noticeable to hiring managers. Research from Robert Half found that 82% of hiring managers say they can tell when a candidate has used AI to generate their application materials. This highlights a growing awareness among employers and a need for job seekers to use these tools thoughtfully.”

How can they find a job that aligns with their skills? Are courses and certifications the right way to prepare for that? “To find a tech job that aligns with their skills, job seekers should start by identifying their strengths and matching them to roles in demand. This applies not only to positions within the tech sector, but also to tech-driven roles across industries like finance and healthcare. GenAI can be a helpful starting point for curating a list of potential roles based on an applicant’s skills and interests, but I recommend exploring broadly and not limiting the search to one industry or job title.

“Courses and certifications can be valuable, especially in rapidly evolving areas, but they’re most impactful when paired with hands-on experience. This might include personal projects, internships, hackathons, or contributing to open-source work. Hiring managers continue to look for candidates who can demonstrate both what they’ve learned and how they’ve applied those skills in the field.

“Ultimately, today’s tech landscape requires adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning. Professionals who embrace digital transformation and proactively build skills in emerging technologies that help drive productivity and ROI will stand out.”The one secret to using genAI to boost your brain – ComputerworldRead More