'Mention key skills': Job applicant sends AI-generated email to CEO in copy-paste catastrophe

A screenshot of the job application sent to the CEO of Entourage. (Image credit: @AnanyaNarang_/X)

Entourage CEO Ananya Narang recently posted on X (formerly Twitter) about a job application that left her amused and slightly baffled. Sharing a screenshot of the application, Narang wrote: "Just received yet another job application. No wonder we have so much unemployment today."

The application in question contained placeholder text such as "mention your key skills" and "briefly highlight relevant experience," a clear indication that the applicant failed to personalise their message and likely used Artificial Intelligence for the application.

Here is the full text of the job application sent by the unnamed candidate with glaring errors:

I hope this message finds you well! I’m excited to reach out regarding the opportunities you’re offering. I believe my skills and experiences align well with your needs.

I’m proficient in [mention your key skills, e.g., graphic design, social media strategy, research], and I’m passionate about [explain briefly how you can add value, e.g., creating engaging content, analyzing trends, supporting strategic initiatives]. My previous experience includes [briefly highlight relevant experience or projects].

I am eager to contribute to your team and help drive growth and innovation. I’d love to discuss how I can add value to what you’re building!

Looking forward to hearing from you!

In a follow-up tweet, Narang humorously asked, "Please tell me what do I reply?"

Just received yet another job application. No wonder we have so much unemployment today :) pic.twitter.com/c0VaGWYrIJ Ananya Narang (@AnanyaNarang_) October 15, 2024

Others sympathised with the applicant, citing the pressures of the current job market. One user wrote, "It's not about unemployment, Ananya. It's about a common mistake... In a rush, he couldn't change it. Albeit anything, I would still commend them and would ask them to correct the placeholder message. Tough times for them.”

A third suggested what Narang’s response should be: “The same rejection mail but with a bracket. In the bracket, make him aware that you need to cut the copied part & write some actual stuff in the bracket.”

Entourage is a business development and B2B marketing agency.