Curran Advises Graduates to Use AI Strategically in Job Searches

Angela Curran, founder of mycareerverse.ie, said that recent graduates should stop viewing artificial intelligence as an obstacle and instead use it to gain an advantage in the hiring process. Curran, a guidance counselor, observed that many new entrants to the workforce feel frustrated by the lack of human contact in early career stages. She noted that employers increasingly use AI to select candidates for interviews, while applicants use the same technology to draft cover letters and resumes.

Curran explained that some graduates now face preliminary interviews with AI avatars before securing in-person meetings. She argued that this shift requires candidates to understand how the technology operates within their specific sectors. Employers are looking for applicants who can think and adapt alongside machines rather than competing against them. Curran said, “You don’t have to be an expert in it, you just have to know how it works. You have to be able to speak about it.”

To build this competency, Curran recommended that graduates complete online courses from platforms such as LinkedIn Learning and Coursera. She advised candidates to post certificates of completion on their professional social media profiles to signal their new skills to recruiters. Curran described this practice as a marketing strategy, noting that visible credentials help candidates stand out in a crowded field.

However, Curran warned against over-relying on AI to generate application materials. She observed that many graduates use AI tools to create resumes that mirror the specific language of job descriptions without adding their own unique experiences. This approach can lead to generic applications that fail to highlight a candidate’s actual background. Curran said, “They’re not actually using it to build a framework and then put their own information in and populate what they’ve done.”

Recruiters can often identify fully AI-generated resumes by poor formatting and Americanized language, according to Curran. She suggested that candidates build a “story bank” of specific examples to demonstrate their skills and emotional intelligence. She emphasized that human traits such as critical thinking remain essential because AI can produce biased or hallucinated information. Curran stated that AI amplifies good thinking but does not replace it.

For those struggling to secure interviews, Curran advised looking at the LinkedIn profiles of current employees at target companies to identify skill gaps. She pointed to Springboard+ as a government initiative offering free and subsidized courses in engineering, green skills, and information and communications technology. These programs provide additional pathways for graduates to upskill in high-demand areas.

Curran also encouraged graduates to use AI as a research tool for international job markets. She noted that the European Union is currently recruiting large numbers of graduates and that AI can help candidates analyze job listings across the continent. She said, “It’s not just Ireland,” adding that the global market offers significant opportunities for those willing to look beyond their home country.

Finally, Curran reminded candidates that traditional networking methods remain effective. She suggested using professional networks to find connections within target companies or asking friends and family about local openings. She recommended starting with smaller local employers and bringing printed copies of resumes to in-person interactions. Curran said, “Walk with your feet, print your CV out. I’ve seen graduates being really successful with that.”