Science & Technology · 6 Intermediate · October 15, 2026

When AI Job Applications Go Too Far

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Vocabulary

artificial intelligence ɑːr.tɪ.fɪʃ.əl ɪn.tel.ɪ.dʒəns noun phrase

computer technology that can learn and perform tasks that normally require human thinking

Many graduates are using artificial intelligence to improve their job applications.

spray and pray spreɪ ənd preɪ noun phrase

a strategy of sending many job applications quickly without customizing each one, hoping some will succeed

Job seekers who use spray and pray submit hundreds of applications without personalization.

misconduct mɪs.kɑːn.dʌkt noun

dishonest or improper behavior, especially breaking rules or ethical standards

Using AI dishonestly during interviews is considered misconduct by most employers.

dilemma dɪ.lem.ə noun

a difficult situation where you must choose between two equally problematic options

Employers face a genuine dilemma when deciding how to respond to AI use in applications.

manipulate mə.nɪp.jə.leɪt verb

to control or influence something in a dishonest way for personal advantage

Companies are trying to design application processes that AI cannot manipulate.

exhausting ɪɡ.zɔː.stɪŋ adjective

extremely tiring and draining, leaving you with very little energy

The competitive job market made by spray and pray approaches is exhausting for job hunters.

Article

Graduates are using artificial intelligence more often when applying for jobs, research shows. Tom, a 22-year-old graduate from England, applied for over 200 positions before finding work as a restaurant manager. He used AI to improve his cover letters and CVs, searching for keywords that computer screening systems would recognize. Many employers now accept this type of help, but the situation has become complicated and raises difficult questions about fairness.

The Problem With Quick Applications

When job seekers use AI to write many applications rapidly, the process is called "spray and pray." This approach makes the job market more competitive and exhausting for everyone. A major energy company, EDF, received 12,000 applications in just three weeks after opening its graduate program, a 10 percent increase from the previous year. Experts believe AI made it easier for candidates to submit applications quickly, putting pressure on both employers and other job hunters.

Finding Balance

Employers face a genuine dilemma. Most have noticed candidates using AI dishonestly during interviews or online tests, which they consider misconduct. At the same time, many understand that the jobs market is extremely difficult right now. Companies are now creating rules about acceptable AI use and trying to design application processes that AI cannot manipulate, but some candidates argue this approach is unfair when employers themselves use AI to screen applications.

Discussion Questions

Do you think graduates should use AI to write their job applications? Why or why not?
Tom says it is unfair that companies ask candidates not to use AI when employers use AI to screen applications. Is he right?
What problems could happen if many job seekers use "spray and pray" AI applications?
How might companies design fairer recruitment processes if AI is now part of both sides?
Do you think there is a difference between using AI to improve a cover letter and using it during a video interview? Explain your thinking.

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