UPDATE: Australia’s recruitment landscape is undergoing a seismic shift as candidates increasingly turn to artificial intelligence (AI) during job interviews. Major firms like Lendlease and Canva are reporting alarming trends that threaten the integrity of the hiring process.
Candidates have been observed using AI-generated responses in video interviews, raising concerns about authenticity. Simon Newton, head of platform at Canva, revealed, “Candidates are increasingly using AI assistance during technical interviews, sometimes covertly through tools specifically designed to avoid detection.” This shift complicates how employers assess skills and qualifications, creating a murky job market for recent graduates.
The urgency of this issue is heightened by a recent study from Stanford University, which found a 13% decline in employment among 22 to 25-year-olds in AI-exposed fields. This stark statistic highlights the disproportionate impact of AI on entry-level workers, raising fears among jobseekers about their future.
Bachelor of commerce student Lara Veidners expressed her concerns, stating, “It’s far more challenging than we expected.” Despite the pressure, she believes leveraging AI effectively can set graduates apart. “Utilising AI to the best of our abilities has become a real sort of power,” she said.
Fellow student Xavier Sawaqed noted the stark differences in job application processes compared to five years ago, emphasizing the rapid changes. “This video screening step is kind of new,” he remarked, reflecting on the challenges posed by AI’s rise.
In response to these changes, Lendlease confirmed that while AI has streamlined their recruitment process, they remain committed to attracting “strong undergraduate and graduate talent” through their Early Careers program. This dual approach reflects the need to adapt while maintaining a focus on genuine talent.
The implications extend beyond Australia. Professor Frederik Anseel from UNSW Business School indicated that while the job market may feel competitive due to AI, it is also influenced by economic factors. He pointed out that the Stanford study’s findings correlate with larger trends affecting employment stability.
Contrastingly, reports from the Instagram account Aussie Corporate suggest lucrative opportunities remain, with one graduate reportedly earning $200,000 this year in IT, while Macquarie paid $186,000 to investment banking graduates. However, neither company confirmed these figures, leaving some skepticism in the air.
Julie Cogin, deputy chancellor academic at Australian Catholic University, acknowledged the dual nature of AI in the job market. “There is job displacement… but equally, there has been a lot of job creation and new roles,” she explained, emphasizing the need for students to adapt to this evolving landscape.
In the end, employers are seeking graduates who can effectively communicate and solve problems. Esmond Esguerra, head of employability at UNSW, noted the importance of communication skills in the hiring process. “Nothing is too baseline,” he said, stressing the need for students to develop foundational skills that AI cannot replicate.
As Australian jobseekers navigate this new terrain, the recruitment process is evolving rapidly. The reliance on AI in interviews is causing a seismic shift, compelling both candidates and employers to rethink their strategies. The urgency of these developments cannot be overstated, as the future of work hangs in the balance.
Stay tuned for further updates on this ongoing story as we monitor the impact of AI on recruitment practices across Australia.
