Artificial intelligence job screeners prefer AI-written resumes over human ones, researchers find

A study has found that AI-powered applicant tracking systems tend to prefer AI-written resumes over human-written ones. The research indicates that these systems are more likely to shortlist candidates who used the same large language model that the employing company uses. The findings highlight a potential bias in automated hiring processes.

The study's results suggest that job seekers using AI to write their resumes may have an advantage when applying through AI screening tools, particularly if the AI model matches that of the employer. This creates a feedback loop where candidates are incentivised to use AI to generate content that will be evaluated by AI, potentially devaluing human-crafted applications.

Researchers involved in the study have raised concerns about the implications for fairness and transparency in hiring. The bias toward AI-written resumes could lead to a homogenisation of application materials and reduce the impact of individual human input. The findings come amid broader debates about the role of AI in employment and the need for safeguards against algorithmic bias.