Searching Job in the Era of Artificial Intelligence

Finding a job has always been challenging and it got more tough with the arrival of Artificial intelligence. Crafting the perfect resume, tailoring cover letters, researching potential employers, and trying to see things from a hiring manager's perspective can be exhausting. But today, the game has changed; it's often less about impressing a human and more about passing a test with an algorithm.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing how companies hire. Nowadays, it's increasingly rare for a human to be the first to review a job application. A recent study shows that 97% of Fortune 500 companies use some form of AI-driven Applicant Tracking System (ATS). This software does many things, but for job seekers, the most important is that it scans and sorts resumes and identifies the ones matching the job requirements. Recruiters argue that this automation frees them from routine tasks, allowing them to focus on more critical parts of hiring. However, a machine may have decided if you've been rejected shortly after submitting your application.

As such, job seekers must become more competent and learn to overcome the ATS. AI-generated resumes, which are tailored to match the requirements of the ATS, will help people understand what the system is looking for. These resumes are crafted using specific keywords and formatting that are known to be effective in crossing the tracking systems. 

Should job seekers place their full trust in an AI-generated resume? The answer is a resounding NO. Over-reliance on AI can be detrimental. As Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar, Vice Chancellor of the National Skills University Islamabad, advises, a human touch is not just crucial, it's integral. An AI-generated resume, if not carefully reviewed and refined, can be easily identified, often filled with generic phrases and repetition. Some recruiters even admit to giving these applications less priority. Your unique human perspective and personal touch are what can truly make your application stand out.

The job market is becoming very competitive. According to a report on LinkedIn alone, 140 job applications are submitted every second. As the job market becomes more competitive, standing out and utilizing existing technological gadgets, such as AI-generated resumes and job search platforms, is more crucial than ever.

Smaller companies and academic recruitments, including technology-oriented positions, have adopted ATS technology relatively slowly. However, as the technology becomes more affordable and widespread, people will gradually adopt it.

As we progress, AI's impact on job seekers will become more pronounced. However, one thing is certain: AI will become more prominent in recruitment. It has the potential to streamline the job search process, making it more efficient and successful for both job seekers and employers. Those who embrace this technology might find their job search more manageable and fruitful, while those who resist could find themselves at a disadvantage.