Topline: HR execs say AI-generated applications slow the hiring process

Artificial intelligence (AI) is quickly changing the business landscape. It's more than a specialized technology, it now touches nearly every business function—from marketing to merchandising, operations and supply chain and even the hiring process.

Conducted by: Robert Half and an independent research firm.

Methodology: A national survey of 1,500 hiring managers across finance and accounting, technology and IT, marketing and creative, legal, administrative and customer support, and HR.

Key findings: 

• 61% of Canadian HR leaders say reviewing AI-generated applications has slowed the hiring process.
• 64% of hiring managers say the increased volume and authenticity concerns of AI-generated resumes are creating notable challenges for their organization.

"AI is influencing nearly every part of the hiring process," said Koula Vasilopoulos, senior managing director, Robert Half, Canada, in a press release. "At the same time, the rise in unverified or automated applications is making it harder for employers to move efficiently through candidate pools and verify candidate authenticity."

To validate candidates, many organizations have added steps to extend hiring timelines, including:

• Spending more time reviewing applications (43%)
• Increasing the number of interviews per candidate (42%)
• Updating job descriptions to discourage generic responses (39%)

To maintain hiring speed and accuracy, 63% of hiring managers say they're using staffing firms to help navigate AI-related hiring challenges.