Detecting AI-generated job applications

What's hiding behind the AI mask?

ChatGPT and other AI language models are increasingly being used in the job search process, from polishing cover letters to potentially generating entire applications. While getting help with writing and editing may seem harmless, some job seekers, including Health and Safety professionals, are relying too heavily on AI, allowing it to compose their applications entirely. This raises concerns about authenticity and the ability to accurately assess a candidate's true skills and experiences.

HSE hiring managers now face the challenge of distinguishing between human-generated and AI-generated content. On one end of the spectrum, candidates may appear to have superior written communication abilities than they genuinely possess. On the other end, AI may generate content tailored to what it perceives the employer wants to hear, potentially fabricating skills and experiences to match the job description.

Detecting AI-generated content

Here are some potential signs to watch-out for when reviewing job applications: 

• Too formal/wordy: AI tends to use more formal wording e.g. instead of possessing relevant "skills", AI might refer to a "comprehensive skillset", or AI might use "elevated" instead of "improved".
• US spelling: American spellings can be a red flag e.g. applicant refers to their "organization" instead of "organisation".
• Inconsistency: Watch out for variations in writing style between the candidate's resume and cover letter, or within the same document.
• Generic: AI generated job applications might be missing real-life examples or too exactly match the job advertisement. If this is the case, dig deeper.

If you are suspicious about a candidate relying too heavily on AI, then you can use AI detection tools like GPTZero or Originality.AI. While these tools are a useful first step, they are not fool-proof. Use them alongside your own judgement, considering the content's relevance, specificity, and alignment with the candidate's background.

As AI continues to evolve, some employers are even burying prompt within their job ads. That said, the most effective approach likely combines technology with the expertise of seasoned HR professionals.

Assessing true HSE capabilities

A job application alone won't tell you enough about a potential new hire. To best understand their skills, experience and motivations to work with you, an interview and assessment process will be required. Assigning practical tests or discussing case studies can help differentiate between AI-assisted knowledge and genuine understanding.

Verify claims made in the application through background checks and references to ensure the candidate possesses the skills and experience they claim.

Embracing AI

Not all employers view AI use in job applications negatively. Some organisations, particularly those operating in tech and SaaS, are actively encouraging it. They recognise that a HSE professionals understanding of AI will be crucial for success now, and in the future.

Take Canva, for example. The graphic design platform has embraced AI in its hiring process. Melanie Anderson, Canva's Head of Talent Acquisition, says they're "leaning into" AI to accelerate their mission.

Canva's approach includes:

• Giving candidates AI-based challenges: Finalists are asked to use Canva's AI tools to complete a task, showcasing their skills.
• Encouraging AI use in applications: Candidates are prompted to leverage AI in their presentations and application materials.
• Asking candidates to explain AI usage: Applicants must describe how they've used AI, whether for brainstorming, challenging ideas, or creating visuals.

This helps Canva identify applicants who can integrate AI into their work effectively.

For HSE hiring managers, considering candidates' familiarity with AI tools could be increasingly valuable. Assessing how applicants understand and leverage AI to enhance safety processes might reveal forward-thinking professionals. However, maintain balance in your evaluation. Look for applications that demonstrate genuine skills and unique perspectives on health and safety issues, not just AI proficiency. The ideal candidate will blend traditional HSE expertise with an understanding of emerging technologies.

How can we help?

Collaborating with a specialist HSE recruiter like The Safe Step can help you navigate hiring challenges. With extensive experience and a comprehensive network of workplace Health, Safety, Environment and Wellbeing professionals, our expert consultants have screened countless resumes and are attuned to identifying genuine talent.

We go beyond filtering resumes by digging beneath the surface to interrogate HSE capabilities and validate candidate skills before presenting them to you, saving you time and ensuring you interview qualified, authentic applicants.

To further enhance the hiring process, we offer optional capability and skills testing, not only to remove unconscious bias but also to benchmark HSE capabilities against the wider Australian Health & Safety community. Our bespoke tools and deep industry knowledge help add rigour to your Talent Acquisition process.