Career Corner: AI in the Job Market

Artificial intelligence is everywhere these days, and while it may seem like large language model (LLM) tools like ChatGPT are a new phenomenon, says Deepak Kumar, professor of computer science, AI-based systems have been used for decades.

“As with all such systems, they are awesome when they work,” he says, “but they also pose numerous ethical and other challenges.”

A prime area for AI is the job market, from job seekers using LLMs to polish cover letters to HR departments using AI to sort through applicants. In fact, the use of generative AI is so prevalent that employers are restructuring their hiring processes and recruiting teams around using it.

“People will come to rely on them, will change the way they do their work, and will have to be more aware of the implications of the use, misuse, and failures of such systems,” Kumar says.

So, whether you're a technology enthusiast or wary observer, AI is here to stay. But don’t fret! Job seekers can utilize this technology to optimize their searches and increase the likelihood of consideration for job openings.