Stop copy-pasting ChatGPT nonsense into job applications

Let’s talk about something that’s making job hunting harder, not easier, for a lot of you.

We see it all the time in Herizon’s headhunting: cover letters, application responses, LinkedIn intros… and they all sound exactly the same.

“I am a results-oriented professional with a proven track record of success in dynamic environments…”

You didn’t write that. ChatGPT did. And we know. Recruiters know. Companies know. When we followed up with one applicant and asked about their answer, they literally ghosted.

Here’s the thing: the problem is not that you used AI, it’s that you didn’t edit. You didn’t think. You didn’t make it yours.

Example 1: The ChatGPT Special

Bad version:

“I am writing to express my sincere interest in the opportunity at your esteemed organization, where I believe my proactive attitude and innovative thinking would make a substantial contribution.”

This doesn’t say anything. It’s vague. It’s buzzword soup. You could paste this into any job, and that’s exactly why it doesn’t work.

Better version:

“I’m looking for a role where I can use my background in logistics and operations to improve efficiency. In my last role, I reduced shipment delays by 27%. I’d love to bring the same mindset to your team.”

Clear and specific. Sounds like a human. That’s what stands out.

Example 2: The “AI wrote this and I didn’t read it” vibe

Bad version:

“My passion lies in synergizing cross-functional teams in high-pressure environments with a focus on customer-centric innovation.”

Come on. No one talks like that. This sounds like it came out of a bad corporate branding workshop.

Better version:

“I’m used to working across departments such as customer success, sales, and marketing, and figuring out what’s blocking progress. I like fixing things that frustrate customers and slow down teams, so I built Zapier automations to move information from marketing to sales automatically.”

Same idea. Way more real.

Use ChatGPT as a tool, not a crutch

Yes, AI is helpful. We use it too. It can clean up your writing, help you brainstorm bullet points, or rephrase sentences. But don’t let it remove your voice.

You still need to:

• Check if it makes sense
• Remove buzzwords that don’t mean anything
• Add specific examples and details from your own work
• Say something human

Run it by a friend if you’re not sure. Show us in the Herizon community (Chat in the Portal) before sending it out. Ask for feedback. That’s what we’re here for.

But please - don’t drown yourself in jargon just because a chatbot wrote it quickly. The real shortcut? Writing something people actually want to read.