Nearly Half of Job Seekers Have Embraced AI Tools to Aid Search

A report by CompTIA highlights that nearly half of active job seekers are either currently using or planning to leverage AI-enabled career tools during their job search. The findings underscore the growing importance of AI fluency as candidates recognize its impact on the evolving job market.

The report indicates that about one-third of respondents highlighted the importance of understanding AI fundamentals as a critical digital skill today. Concurrently, 90% acknowledged the significance of general digital skills across industries. Notably, approximately two-thirds of active job seekers, spanning all age groups, are aware of discussions on AI's potential workforce impact. Cognizant of this technology’s potential impact, they have expressed a willingness to use AI-based tools to streamline their job search processes.

"It [i]s encouraging to see the vast majority of workers recognize the need for continuous learning and building their digital fluency in AI and other areas," said Hannah Johnson, Senior Vice President of Tech Talent Programs, CompTIA. She also emphasized the value of upskilling, asserting that such investments would prove beneficial to individuals whether they opted to remain in their current field or pursue opportunities in the tech industry or beyond.

The specific applications of AI mentioned by job seekers include reviewing or enhancing resumes and cover letters, aligning skills with potential job opportunities, researching prospective employers, receiving interactive career coaching, and automating the application process.

While the demand for generative AI skills has surged since 2022, a report by Lightcast highlights a gap in relevant skills among workers. A Salesforce report corroborates this, indicating that despite the explosive growth in AI, the majority of workers lack the necessary skills and expect employers to bridge the knowledge gap. Approximately two-thirds of workers express a desire for opportunities to learn how to use generative AI, mirroring the proportion reporting their employer's lack of AI tool training.

To address concerns about skills gaps and equity issues related to AI, a Pluralsight report suggests fostering a culture of learning and development, particularly among software developers as they play a pivotal role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence . The report emphasizes that workers who feel a sense of belonging and are provided with learning opportunities tend to be more productive overall.