Artificial intelligence (AI) tools have become a regular part of the job application process – with 53 percent of candidates having used AI-powered tools to help write their CVs in the past 12 months, according to research.
The research, from international insurance group Hiscox, also found that AI tools to assist in generating, tailoring and refining CV content and are increasingly being used to support remote interviews (29%) and complete online assessments (45%).
Pete Treloar, Chief Underwriting Officer at Hiscox UK, acknowledged that AI can help candidates present themselves effectively but warned of the potential risks. He noted that AI-generated content, particularly from large language models, often appears generic and lacks the authenticity needed to accurately reflect a candidate’s experience or suitability.
Mixed views on use of AI in job applications
The study also revealed that 37 percent of applicants would not correct inaccuracies added by AI, such as overstated skills or experience. This raises concerns about the integrity of applications and the ability of recruiters to accurately evaluate candidates.
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“For recruiters and hiring managers, who find themselves unable to accurately judge a candidate’s ability it’s particularly problematic. If they’re passing on incorrect information or poor recommendations to their clients, not only does it damage relationships, but it can lead to more serious claims and that’s why insurance is so important,” he said.
While some candidates see AI as a way to improve their chances, views remain mixed. Forty-one percent of applicants believe the use of AI tools is unfair on others and 42 percent think it is misleading for employers. In contrast, 59 percent say AI use is acceptable and 46 percent believe not using AI puts candidates at a disadvantage.
AI-driven CVs common, but originality still valued
A separate investigation by digital PR agency Reboot Online revealed that nearly two-thirds (61%) of recent job applications analysed were AI-generated. After reviewing 100 CVs and cover letters submitted to its recruitment team, the agency found only 39 percent to be original.
Reboot Online found AI-generated applications were more prevalent on their website career page (70%) than via LinkedIn or Indeed (55%). However, AI use remains high across platforms. Repeated phrases such as “thank you for considering my application” (43%), “writing to express my interest in” (22%) and “the opportunity to contribute” (21%) were among the most common indicators of AI content.
The study noted that applicants in paid media, growth and marketing roles were most likely to use AI, while those in PR, data science and sales were least likely. According to the agency, 73 percent of hiring managers now recognise AI-generated content, citing overly polished language, lack of specifics and formulaic structure as clear signs.
Zoë Blogg, Managing Director at Reboot Online, said, “Our research found 61 percent of recent applications were flagged as AI-written. Human-written applications generally include personal anecdotes, statistics and real-world examples. Spotting ‘times when’ stories is a good way to identify genuine submissions.”
Blogg added that hiring teams can adapt processes to prioritise authenticity. Introducing real-time elements such as video responses or time-limited application sections could help discourage excessive use of AI tools.
