Can AI Really Help You Get a Job?

Image Credit: Sebastian Herrmann | Unsplash

In the rapidly evolving world of job hunting, a new trend is reshaping the recruitment landscape: the widespread use of artificial intelligence tools by job seekers to craft their applications. As more candidates turn to generative AI technologies like ChatGPT to write CVs, cover letters, and complete assessments, recruiters are facing an unprecedented influx of applications — many of which are of questionable quality. Today we try to explore the implications of this shift, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges it presents for job seekers and employers alike.

The AI Application Boom

According to recent estimates from employers and surveys, nearly half of all job seekers are now using AI tools to assist with their applications. This surge in AI-generated applications has led to a dramatic increase in the number of candidates per job, effectively doubling the workload for recruiters. While AI can help candidates present themselves more professionally, it has also resulted in a noticeable decline in application quality, as many rely on the technology to do the heavy lifting without proper customization or editing. Khyati Sundaram, CEO of recruitment platform Applied, notes that the lower barrier to entry has flooded the market with applications that are often generic and impersonal. The ease with which candidates can now copy and paste AI-generated responses into application forms has made it increasingly difficult for recruiters to identify the truly qualified applicants.

The Impact on Recruiters: Sifting Through the Noise

For recruiters, the rise of AI-generated applications is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, AI tools can help candidates highlight their skills and experiences more effectively. On the other, the influx of “barrage” applications has made it harder to distinguish between genuinely qualified candidates and those who have relied too heavily on AI assistance. Andy Heyes, regional managing director at tech recruiter Harvey Nash, points out that tell-tale signs like American grammar and bland language often indicate when a candidate has used AI. This has forced recruiters to become more vigilant in spotting AI-generated content, but the task is becoming increasingly challenging as the technology improves.

The Ethical Dilemma: AI and Cheating in Assessments

Beyond crafting CVs and cover letters, some job seekers are also using generative AI to cheat on recruitment assessments. This trend has raised concerns among employers, particularly in the early careers sector where younger candidates are often more adept at using advanced AI tools. Jamie Betts, founder of Neurosight, notes that those who use the paid-for version of ChatGPT are significantly more likely to pass psychometric tests, raising questions about fairness and equity in the hiring process. This disparity is particularly concerning given the socio-economic factors at play. Candidates from higher socio-economic backgrounds are more likely to afford advanced AI tools, potentially giving them an unfair advantage over others. As AI becomes more embedded in the job application process, the need for ethical guidelines and safeguards becomes increasingly urgent.

Balancing AI with Human Interaction

Despite the growing reliance on AI, many recruiters and employers remain hopeful that traditional interview processes will help filter out candidates who have relied too heavily on technology. While AI can streamline certain aspects of the job application process, it cannot replace the nuances of personal interaction and the importance of authenticity. Job seekers who focus solely on AI to enhance their applications may find themselves at a disadvantage when it comes to the final interview stage, where personal skills and genuine experience come to the forefront.

Source: https://www.ft.com/content/30a032dd-bdaa-4aee-bc51-754867abbde0