AI-generated job applications present challenges for employers, survey finds

A global survey by Remote has revealed that 75% of employers have received job applications written by artificial intelligence that contain false information. The research, which surveyed over 4,000 business leaders, highlights the growing challenges

By: helsinkitimes.fi

Nov 26 2024
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AI-generated job applications

A global survey by Remote has revealed that 75% of employers have received job applications written by artificial intelligence that contain false information. The research, which surveyed over 4,000 business leaders, highlights the growing challenges AI poses in recruitment processes, particularly for senior roles and large companies.

AI-generated applications are becoming increasingly common, especially in leadership positions and within large organisations.

These applications often misrepresent candidates’ qualifications, leading to a rise in unqualified applicants. Sixty percent of respondents believe AI-generated applications are contributing to this trend. Of those, 74% say this issue creates business challenges, with 33% describing it as a significant problem.

Finding qualified candidates remains the top recruitment challenge for 38% of employers. Many also face difficulties distinguishing between genuine and AI-generated applications, particularly in workplaces favouring remote or hybrid work arrangements. Among employers prioritising remote work, 58% reported issues with AI-generated applications, compared to 45% in hybrid settings and 43% in office-focused roles.

Large companies are more likely to encounter AI-generated applications. While 65% of businesses with fewer than 250 employees identified this as a problem, the figure rose to 84% for organisations with more than 250 employees. Industries most affected include finance (53%), healthcare (51%), and education (47%). Employers with global recruitment strategies reported higher exposure to AI-generated applications than those hiring locally.

“Two years after generative AI entered the mainstream, we are seeing more applicants use it not only to enhance their CVs but also to assist in job interviews. Employers, in turn, are leveraging AI to streamline application screening, especially when hundreds of applications are received for a single role,” said Anastasia Pshegodskaya, Head of Recruitment at Remote.

The survey also found that senior and executive-level positions face the greatest challenges. Fifty-eight percent of respondents noted issues with AI-generated applications for senior roles, while 60% reported similar concerns for executive positions.

Remote’s Global Workforce study was conducted in autumn 2024, with participants from North America, Europe, and Asia. It highlights the need for employers to adapt their recruitment strategies to address the increasing prevalence of AI-generated content.