This guidance is designed to support job applicants on the appropriate use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools when applying for roles at the University of Chester.
AI tools are becoming increasingly common, and we understand that some applicants may use them when preparing job applications. As a university, we are investing in digital skills, including AI and data, recognising the importance of these technologies for the future.
However, when applying for a job with us, it is important that your application reflects your own work. While AI can be useful for checking spelling, grammar, or helping to structure your answers, over reliance on it, particularly to write your answers, may reduce your chances of being shortlisted.
What makes an application stand out is authenticity. Your experiences, judgment, and personal insights are the strongest indicators of your suitability for a role; AI cannot replicate these qualities. Ultimately, we are hiring people, not AI tools, so we want to hear about your genuine experiences and achievements, not what AI thinks we want to hear.
If you choose to use AI to support your application, the guidance below outlines acceptable and unacceptable uses. Using AI beyond these guidelines may affect the outcome of your application.
AI in job applications
Acceptable Use (Application Stage)
- To help you structure your own ideas in a clear way using frameworks like STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
- Researching the University and/or the department to better understand the role and culture
- Exploring industry or professional trends to contextualise your experiences
- To check spelling and grammar (always review outputs critically).
Remember
- Ensure everything you submit is accurate and personal to you
- Be prepared to discuss your application in detail at interview
- Check your supporting statements reflects your real experiences
- Make sure your application sound like you, not a generic applicant.
Unacceptable Use (Application Stage)
- Copying answers directly from AI without personalising or editing
- Using AI to “sound perfect” rather than being authentic, we want to hear your voice and understand your real strengths
- Inflating or fabricating skills or experiences you don’t have. Inputting sensitive personal data into AI tools
- Relying on AI instead of reflecting critically on your own experiences.
Remember
- AI can be a useful tool, but the effective applications are honest, personal, and authentic
- We want to get to know the real you. It is usually clear when parts, or all, of an application are not genuine, and this often becomes even more evident during interviews.
- Over reliance on AI may negatively impact your chances of being shortlisted.
AI at Interview Stage
Your unique experiences, perspective, and personality are what will make you stand out. Be yourself and highlight your genuine skills and experiences throughout the application and interview process. Remember that AI should not replace your own critical thinking and creativity.
Acceptable Use:
- Creating practice questions based on the job descriptions
- Conducting background research and exploring current industry trends
- Receiving feedback on your communication approach
- Building confidence in articulating your strengths and addressing your development areas
Unacceptable Use:
- Rehearsing overly scripted responses that sound artificial
- Attempting to use AI during your actual interview
- Preparing fictional examples instead of drawing on real experiences
Final Reminder:
AI can support your preparation, but your authentic voice, experiences, and critical thinking are what make your application successful.