New research has revealed that 72% of students and recent graduates are already using some form of Generative AI each week, and almost a fifth of candidates are now using Generative AI to help them fill in job applications or assessments.

As Talent Leaders we find ourselves at a crossroads: label candidates using this Generative AI technology as ‘cheats’, introduce draconian and ineffectual monitoring practices, and watch as our talent pools shrink even further; or recognise the undeniable truth… the hiring process must evolve, and we must embrace this new technology, as candidates are doing.

W​​hat is ChatGPT, what is Generative AI, and why should I care?

Generative AI is making waves. But why should recruiters and talent acquisition teams give two hoots? Think of it like having a chat with a human - but not just any human. Systems like ChatGPT learn from the entire internet, processing it in real-time. Picture a speed reader who could devour, understand, and summarise all the books in the world in a blink - that's the kind of power we're talking about! And with new software add-ons, you can get instant answers and insights straight into your phone, tablet or computer. Instant insights when you need them, without breaking a sweat.

How are candidates actually using Generative AI tools right now?

As well as operating at lightning-fast speeds, generative AI is predictive and self-learning - making it the ultimate tool for automating repetitive tasks that need subtle changes…like rewriting your CV for different roles. But that’s not all candidates are using tools like ChatGPT for.

Writing an application form, creating a killer cover letter, and even tackling question-based psychometric assessments are just some of the tasks that ChatGPT can do in real-time, with precision surpassing that of any human. Back in December, ChatGPT was able to pass the well-known Watson Glaser psychometric test, which focuses on candidates’ critical thinking abilities, simply by having someone copy and paste the questions into a chat box.

Who wouldn’t want that type of AI power on their side in the hunt for the perfect role? Though it may at first seem sub-par, it can be finely tuned, refined and even “trained” to arrive swiftly at the correct answers through specific prompts.

Need a prompt? Just search on the content distribution platform TikTok, as candidates are increasingly sharing experiences and searching for ideas on how to utilise this new technology to their advantage. 

But ChatGPT isn’t the only technology that candidates are using. These tools can elevate the candidate experience in recruitment processes while also addressing human weaknesses and improving the candidate's odds. 

So, what tools are candidates now using?

LoopCV gathers fresh job listings, scouting opportunities in your preferred locations and seamlessly submitting applications on your behalf - every single day. Meaning that you’ll never be sure if the CV and cover letter are from the candidate or next-generation AI.

Whisper AI plugs right into the side of a candidate's screen whilst they are on virtual video interview calls. It transcribes the conversation in real-time and will give the candidate a response to the interviewer's question in less than 5 seconds - it’s a candidate game-changer.

Ecoute AI is similar to whisper AI and transcribes live audio from the user’s microphone in real time and displays it in a textbox. It also uses OpenAI’s GPT-3.5 to generate a suggested response for the user based on the live transcription of the conversation - allowing candidates to respond to interview questions accurately in real time.                                       

Kickresume can manipulate text-based hiring methods. Candidates simply input their information into these tools to generate tailored responses to job applications and questions, allowing them to formulate the perfect response every time. 

Prepper, an AI interview coach, gives candidates tailored questions for the job and company. Every candidate will now stand out at the interview with model answers specific to every industry and sector you could imagine.

Teal is an advanced AI Resume Builder that offers a time-effective solution for candidates to create customised CVs, which emphasises keywords and phrases from job descriptions. It can even make recommendations for candidates' LinkedIn profiles.

If you needed any more convincing this article from HRGrapevine highlights a viral TikTok in which a Candidate is seen using Generative AI during a job interview - and how new research shows they're not alone.

What can talent teams do?

With all of this in mind, it’s easy to see the introduction of ChatGPT has ushered in a new era in recruitment. Chatbots and AI-powered tools give Talent Acquisition Managers a competitive edge by helping to source and screen candidates quickly, accurately, and at a lower cost. However, as with all emerging technologies, there are benefits for everyone involved, not just talent teams.

So while some assessments like the Watson Glaser psychometric test have implemented a deter and detect capability to minimise this new risk. They’re proving to be not effective and it sends the wrong message to candidates.

Accepting that candidates are also using this technology to their advantage is the first step in navigating this new landscape. Instead of being fixated on stopping candidates from using generative AI tools like ChatGPT,  considering how processes can be adapted to ensure they remain future-proof against these tools or adapting how we screen and assess candidates should be the priority.

To shape the future workforce, we must reassess our hiring criteria and methods. As our work tools become smarter and more capable, our prospective candidates need to demonstrate even greater critical thinking and creativity. Alongside the ability to learn and adapt swiftly, interpersonal skills like empathy will gain the top spot in the criteria we measure for.

By embracing generative AI without hesitation, we can unlock efficiency and foster creativity instead of hindering the inevitable progress that’s ahead of us.

We recently created a new report with insights generated from a survey of 2,000 students and recent graduates, as well as data science-led research with UCL postgraduate researchers.

This comprehensive report on the impact of ChatGPT and Generative AI reveals fresh data and insights about how...

 👉​ 72% of students and recent graduates are already using some form of Generative AI each week 

👉​ Almost a fifth of candidates are already using Generative AI to help them fill in job applications or assessments, with increased adoption among under-represented groups 

👉​ Candidates believe it is their right to use Generative AI in the selection process and a third would not work for an employer who told them they couldn't do so.

Read the full report here.