87% of graduates would use Generative AI to apply for jobs

Generative AI is somewhat like Marmite – you either love it or hate it.

But now, 72% of students and graduates have reported using it on a regular basis, according to new research from talent acquisition company Arctic Shores.

The study, which surveyed over 2,000 participants, found that the number of users of platforms such as ChatGPT, Google Bard, and Adobe Firefly has significantly increased over the past four months.

Additionally, almost a fifth of respondents stated that they use generative AI tools to complete job applications, with seven in ten considering doing so in the future.

Jobs that didn’t allow candidates to use generative AI tools would deter a third of applicants from applying, with a third also stating they would not work for a company that did not permit the use.

What’s more, only 13% of candidates said they wouldn’t want to use generative AI as they considered it cheating, meaning a staggering 87% did not see using it as dishonest.

Generative AI is retaining staff by increasing productivity and improving mental health

Generative AI isn’t just seen as a tool to help candidates secure job roles as it’s also been found to improve job satisfaction.

HR tech leader HiBob commissioned the second Young Generation in Tech survey, finding that almost four in five candidates surveyed in Europe believe that AI will have a positive impact on their work.

In fact, young tech workers reported being “somewhat” or “very confident” about the advances in AI and tech, with 70% sharing that they believe AI increases productivity levels.

“It’s heartening to see confidence recover amongst the tech’s youngest workers,” Davor Hebel, Managing Partner, Eight Roads Ventures.

“Despite the ongoing economic uncertainty, today’s young professionals are proving just how resilient and adaptable they can be.

“Not surprisingly, they are the fastest generation to embrace AI, seeing it as a strong productivity lever, and not a threat. AI is one of the most significant innovations of our time, and it’s great to see younger people so engaged with it.”

Job satisfaction has also increased, with 48% of European tech workers reporting that they are “very satisfied” with their role, and 63% sharing that they plan to remain at their current employer for the foreseeable future.

These results have a knock-on impact as to how young tech worker – typically aged between 20-30-year-olds – feel about their roles.

For example, in 2023, 59% of respondents considered their position to be secure compared to only 51% in 2022.

Similarly, 56% of respondents stated that their job impacted their mental health.

When asked how employers can offer support, respondents shared that both having the necessary resources to do their job and being trusted to complete tasks were among the top priorities.

“The young generation is signaling a clear message: beyond competitive salaries and benefits, they’re in search of workplaces that resonate with purpose and empower them with the necessary resources to thrive,” Ronni Zehavi, Co-founder and CEO of HiBob, said.

“Companies that understand these needs will succeed in making young people feel more secure and less likely to leave.”

AI and UNLEASH World 2023

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