Should HR remain discreet when using AI in hiring decisions?

But this experience is not absolute, according to the year-end iCIMS research, which polled 1,000 jobseekers in the US. It found that 44% have never encountered AI screening in their search this year, while just 32% encountered it several times or in most of their applications.

Their experiences with AI also varied, according to the iCIMS report. Most candidates reported limited encounters with automated interview scheduling, AI-scored assessments, and AI-generated communications.

“We have treated AI in hiring like it’s already total, when for most candidates, it’s still occasional,” Cotton said.

“While the technology is becoming more common, candidates’ experiences suggest adoption is uneven across hiring activities.”

Their perception is also mixed, with 45% of jobseekers encountering AI in hiring saying the effect was positive. Just 21% said it was negative.