According to research, artificial intelligence (AI), tools are now a part of job applications. In the last 12 months, 53 percent of applicants used AI tools to write their CVs.
Hiscox International Insurance Group conducted a study that found AI tools are being increasingly used for remote interviews (29%), and online assessments (45%).
Pete Treloar is the Chief Underwriting Officer of Hiscox UK. He acknowledged that AI could help candidates to present themselves more effectively, but warned about potential risks. He said that AI-generated material, especially from large language models and other AI tools, can often appear generic, lacking the authenticity required to accurately represent a candidate’s skills or experience.
Mixed opinions on AI and job applications
This study also found that 37% of respondents would not correct AI-added inaccuracies, such as exaggerated skills or experience. This raises questions about the accuracy of recruitment and the integrity of the applications.
It’s a problem for recruiters and hiring managers who are unable to accurately assess a candidate. “If they give incorrect information or make poor recommendations to clients, it not only damages relationships but can also lead to serious claims, which is why insurance is important,” said he.
Opinions on AI are mixed. Some candidates believe it can improve their chances. Fourty-one per cent of candidates believe that AI tools are unfair to others, and 42 per cent think they are misleading for employers. Contrastingly, 59 per cent say AI is acceptable. 46 per cent believe that not using AI will put candidates at a competitive disadvantage.
AI-driven CVs are common but originality is still valued
Reboot Online, a digital PR agency, conducted a separate investigation and found that AI generated nearly two thirds (61%) recent job applications. The agency reviewed 100 CVs and covering letters that were submitted to their recruitment team. Only 39 percent of them were original.
Reboot Online discovered AI-generated applications are more prevalent on the career page of their website (70%) compared to LinkedIn (55%). AI usage is still high on all platforms. AI content is often expressed in phrases like “thank you for considering” (43%), or “write to express my interest” (22%).
According to the study, applicants who work in marketing, paid media and growth roles are most likely use AI. Those in sales, data science, and PR are least likely. The agency claims that 73 percent now recognize AI-generated content. They cite overly polished language and formulaic structures as signs.
Zoe Blogg is the Managing Director of Reboot Online. She said: “Our research revealed that 61 percent (of recent applications) were flagged by Reboot as AI-written. Human-written applications usually include anecdotes from personal experience, statistics, and real-world cases. “Spotting ‘times-when’ stories can help you identify real submissions.”
Blogg said that hiring teams could adapt their processes to prioritize authenticity. Introduce real-time elements, such as video answers or time-limited sections in the application process, to discourage the excessive use of AI.
