The increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in job applications has sparked concerns among business leaders, who fear that employers may unknowingly hire candidates unable to perform their roles effectively.
James Robinson, the owner of Cardiff-based advertising agency Hello Starling, warned that generative AI chatbots were being widely used by applicants, enabling them to craft well-structured applications without necessarily possessing the required skills.
“There is a real trend emerging where candidates use AI to ‘engineer’ the application process,” Robinson said. “While AI can help applicants present themselves better, it also makes it harder for employers to identify genuine talent.”
A recent survey of over 2,000 UK job seekers found that nearly half had used AI in their applications. Robinson noted that applications for vacancies at his company often contained AI-generated sentences.
“There are certain phrases we see repeatedly, such as ‘leverage my skillset’ and ‘align with your organisation’s objectives and goals,'” he explained. After running some of these sentences through ChatGPT, he confirmed that they were commonly generated by AI chatbots.
Robinson’s experience resonated with other business leaders. “I was surprised by the number of people facing the same challenge. Some are even considering using AI to detect AI-generated content,” he said.
Despite his concerns, Robinson acknowledged that AI, when used appropriately, could be beneficial. “If AI helps candidates be more concise and present their experiences clearly, that’s a good thing. But it shouldn’t replace authenticity,” he added.
AI’s Growing Influence and Ethical Concerns
AI technology enables computers to perform tasks requiring human-like intelligence. Generative AI, in particular, can create human-like content by analyzing vast amounts of data. While AI cannot think or reason independently, it is increasingly being used in various fields, including job applications.
Megan Cooper, a careers advisor at Cardiff Metropolitan University, emphasized the importance of ethical AI use in job applications. “AI should be an aid, not a replacement for human judgment,” she stated. “Employers expect candidates to understand AI, but they also value originality and personal input.”
Cooper advised students to use AI selectively, such as for structuring resumes or refining cover letters, rather than relying on it entirely. “It’s crucial for applicants to let their unique qualities shine through during the hiring process,” she added.
Mixed Reactions from Students
The debate over AI’s role in job applications extends to students, some of whom are wary of its implications. Jasmine James, 18, said she avoids AI for university work due to plagiarism concerns. “I understand why people use it—it’s fast and efficient—but the risk of incorrect information is too high,” she said.
Others, like Jacob Morgan, 19, see AI as a valuable resource. “I often use AI instead of Google because it provides better results,” he said. “It’s definitely useful.”
Timothy Mitchell, a computer security student at Cardiff Metropolitan University, argued that avoiding AI entirely was a disadvantage. “Everyone is using it—tutors, employers, professionals. Not using AI means missing out on a powerful tool,” he said.
While acknowledging concerns about AI’s growing role, Mitchell believes fears of its impact are exaggerated. “AI can assist us without replacing human creativity and innovation,” he said.
The Future of AI in Hiring
As AI continues to evolve, its role in job applications will likely expand. However, experts stress that human judgment and authenticity remain critical in the hiring process. Employers may need to adapt their screening methods to differentiate between genuine candidates and those overly reliant on AI.
Ultimately, while AI can enhance job applications, it should not replace the essential human elements of creativity, problem-solving, and individuality.
