AI Forces Career Rethink for Graduates as Job Market Transforms

AI and Employment: What HR Professionals Need to Know

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the job market for new graduates. According to the Prospects Early Careers Survey 2025, over 11% of graduates have already altered their career plans because of AI's influence on traditional roles.

Graduates express mixed feelings about how AI affects their futures. While 14% feel pessimistic about their career prospects due to automation, 43% are considering leaving their current employers. Creative fields like coding, graphic design, legal services, data science, film, and art are seen as the most vulnerable to AI-driven changes.

Shifts in Career Paths

Moli Hitchen, a graduate in Korean and Japanese languages, initially planned to work in translation. However, advancements in AI translation tools have reduced demand for human translators. Moli is now exploring roles in consultancy and marketing to leverage language skills differently.

On the other hand, some graduates see AI as an opportunity rather than a threat. Laura Tinsley, studying policing, notes that AI is transforming crime detection and investigation, creating new roles within the criminal justice system. She’s now interested in intelligence and cybercrime-related positions, fields that didn’t exist before AI’s rise.

How Graduates Use AI in Their Job Search

AI tools are becoming a staple for graduates applying for jobs. Nearly 20% have used generative AI platforms like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot for career advice, with 84% finding them helpful. Many use AI to streamline applications, allowing them to apply for more roles efficiently.

Application volume is increasing — 27% of graduates send out over 50 applications. This aligns with data from the Institute of Student Employers, which reports a 59% increase in applications per graduate job compared to last year.

• 43% use AI to edit CVs or cover letters
• 35% use AI to write CVs or cover letters from scratch
• 29% use AI to prepare or practice for interviews
• 26% use AI to answer application form questions
• 9% use AI for online tests like psychometric assessments
• 3% use AI during interviews

Guidance for HR Professionals

Chris Rea, a graduate careers expert, highlights the need for support as graduates adjust to AI’s influence. HR teams and career advisors should help graduates learn how to use AI tools effectively while recognizing their limitations.

This means teaching graduates to verify AI-generated information and combine it with other resources to make informed career decisions. Encouraging a balanced approach can build confidence and realistic expectations.

Real-Life Success with AI Assistance

Jodie Fodden, a recent Environmental Management graduate, shares a practical example. After a year of unsuccessful applications, Jodie started using AI to draft application statements and prepare for interviews. This approach helped land three interviews out of 50 applications and improved the quality of responses by tailoring AI-generated drafts with personal edits.

Jodie’s experience demonstrates how AI can complement human skills in competitive job markets, especially for intermediate roles requiring specialized education.

What HR Can Do Next

HR professionals should recognize the dual nature of AI as both a disruptor and an enabler in graduate employment. Supporting graduates with resources, training, and honest conversations about AI’s impact will help them adapt and thrive.

For those interested in practical AI skills to support workforce development or career coaching, exploring Complete AI Training’s courses can provide useful tools and certifications.