Using AI in applications
Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) is increasingly being used in job hunting, researching, preparing CVs, applications and interviews.
Employers are reacting differently to the use of GenAI in applications - some are encouraging its use and others are taking steps to detect it or asking you to disclose its use. This can be confusing so it’s important to check for any employer guidance before starting your application.
Read more to find out:
- how GenAI can add value to your applications
- how it might hinder you
- how to use it effectively when applying for jobs
What are the pros and cons of using AI in my application?
Pros:
- GenAI is a helpful starting point. It gives you access to templates and overviews that can help you get started and structures that can reflect job roles and sectors.
- Researching companies and organisations. AI tools like ChatGPT make it a great resource for researching companies and the sectors. However, you should be aware that many of these models are built on past information so keep this in mind during your research.
- Interview preparation. It can help you identify generic interview questions and questions for specific industries and roles.
Cons:
- It's not you. GenAI often generates generic content that can make standing out in a competitive job market challenging. Authenticity is lost. It is a poor substitute for actually reflecting on your own skills and experiences which is what employers are really interested in.
- GenAI is prone to inaccuracy and errors. Check the content, and make sure it’s accurate, up to date and free of bias.
- Check your privacy and data security. CVs and applications carry your personal data, it's important to think about how you are using GenAI platforms, what information you are sharing and where it goes.
In essence, it's important to see GenAI tools as a supplement to your skills, experiences and potential, not as a replacement.
How are employers using AI during the recruitment process?
In a recent survey, global recruiters reported that they were using :
- AI-driven screening tools
- Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
- digital interviewing platforms
They are also embracing generative AI to write job posts, create marketing content for hiring and communicate with candidates.
The benefits of using these technologies are:
- increased efficiency
- enhanced matching of candidate’s skills with the job requirements
- reduced bias through standardised candidate evaluations
However, despite these benefits, they acknowledge that these technologies mean that they:
- miss out on quality candidates due to overly strict filtering algorithms
- lose the human interaction and connection with candidates, for example, sending impersonal emails in response to an application.
While employers are increasingly using AI in their recruitment processes, humans are still reviewing applications and making hiring decisions.
What do employers say about candidates using generative AI in their applications?
Employers are reporting that they are seeing many CVs and applications which have been written by GenAI and they don’t need to use screening software to identify them.
An application which is obviously written by GenAI can be perceived as inauthentic, raises integrity issues, can make your application look the same as others, and makes a negative impression.
As previously mentioned, employers range in their attitude to the use of GenAI in applications, but even if there’s no clear policy and the employer doesn’t mind in principle if you’ve used GenAI, they are still looking for honest and authentic applications.
What do I need to considering when using AI in my applications?