February 08, 2024
70% Prefer Human Touch in Job Searches, Gen Z Emphasizes Human Input Over AI
The latest Candidate Sentiment Survey conducted by a prominent UK recruiter reveals a nuanced relationship between workers and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the job-seeking process. Despite the increasing prevalence of AI, the survey suggests that a substantial 70 percent of UK workers still prefer the human touch over interacting solely with AI.
Specifically, 36 percent of the surveyed population expresses a clear preference for dealing exclusively with humans during their job search. Another 34 percent are open to AI being part of the process but emphasize the necessity of human involvement in their overall experience. This preference for human interaction remains consistent across demographics, with 18-34 year olds showing a slightly lower inclination to deal solely with humans (25 percent) compared to 35-54 year olds (40 percent) and those over 55 (49 percent). Nevertheless, a notable 43 percent of the younger demographic still values person-to-person interaction as a crucial component of the recruitment process.
Interestingly, a significant portion of the workforce, comprising 35 percent, believes that AI has not yet impacted their roles and doesn’t anticipate it doing so within the current year. Only a modest 9 percent foresee AI reshaping their roles by reducing administrative tasks, and a mere 3 percent believe AI will entirely transform their work in 2024.
While AI undoubtedly holds potential for process optimization and automation, the survey underscores that human subjective reasoning remains fundamental in various areas. Despite the digital exposure of younger generations, the overwhelming sentiment among UK workers is that the job-seeking experience is inherently human.
The evolving landscape of work is characterized by a shift from viewing the workplace solely as a means of earning a living to considering it an environment of shared values, beliefs, and purpose. Job seekers seek purpose and fulfillment in meaningful work, fostering a subjective and personal experience that cannot be solely reliant on AI.
Even though emerging generations are adept at utilizing technological developments, there is a persistent desire to connect with and learn from people. This inclination toward human interaction in the workplace is unlikely to diminish, emphasizing the enduring importance of the human touch in the ever-evolving world of work.
