The Blubber

Verma notes that plug-in AI browser tools that automatically fill in fields in job postings have significantly accelerated her application process, allowing her to apply to more jobs more swiftly.

Others are leveraging generative AI programs like ChatGPT to create resumes and cover letters tailored to specific job requirements. Some are also using job search automation tools such as LazyApply and SimplifyJobs to apply to numerous positions at once. Additionally, AI tools like Pyjama Jobs and Talentprise, which help candidates find jobs that match their skill sets, may be contributing to higher application rates.

Experts suggest that these tools, combined with a slower labor market and inflation, are leading to an increase in job applications. According to recent LinkedIn data, workers in the U.S. and the U.K. are applying to about 15% more roles than they did a year ago.

“Job seekers are being more aggressive compared to previous years,” says LinkedIn’s chief economist Karin Kimbrough. “AI is empowering people to submit applications to more postings. There’s a lot of excitement around AI right now, and these tools offer personalized suggestions that boost confidence in applying.”

AI may also encourage job seekers to cast a wider net. “Not only are they applying to more jobs, but they’re also applying to roles they wouldn’t have considered before,” says Michelle Volberg, founder and CEO of Giledan 360. “AI is like LinkedIn’s ‘Easy Apply’ tool on steroids, allowing tech candidates to apply for roles in finance or healthcare if there’s any overlap, or making their resume seem relevant when it might not be.”

Experts argue that the surge in applications, partly due to AI, is overwhelming recruiters, who now face a flood of resumes. “There’s a huge need in recruiting departments to use AI to sort, filter, search, and source resumes,” says Josh Bersin, a human resources industry analyst. He recounts posting a job for an editor and receiving 300 responses within the first hour, with “90% of them looking like they were generated by ChatGPT.” Bersin adds, “Recruiters’ workload has increased because applying has become easier.”

AI might also complicate job seeking, as AI-assisted applications raise the bar for standing out and increase the likelihood of being overlooked in the flood. “People may not find a job as quickly as they would like, leading them to apply to more roles,” Kimbrough says.

Kimbrough and others note that while AI contributes to the increase in applications and competition, other factors such as slower hiring, layoffs in various sectors, and economic uncertainty also play a significant role in making the job market more competitive.