Young professionals are entering a labor market transformed by rapid advances in artificial intelligence. Many early-career employees now use AI tools to evaluate job postings, assess company culture and decide whether to apply. To better understand how this trend shapes modern job searching, a questionnaire of 1,077 full-time employees aged 22 to 28 was conducted on behalf of Florida Tech.
This research aimed to gain clearer insight into how young workers approach career decisions in an AI-driven landscape. The findings point to growing dependence on digital tools, rising concerns about accuracy and transparency, and evolving expectations for employers. The following insights help illustrate the opportunities and challenges emerging for applicants and companies alike.
Key Takeaways
- 67% of young professionals have used AI tools during their job search, and of those, 24% relied solely on AI advice when applying.
- Young professionals who used AI were 43% more likely to feel very confident in their job search.
- One in 10 young professionals believe that using AI during the job search can give them a significant competitive edge.
- 79% of young professionals think companies should be required to disclose if they use AI to evaluate or screen job applicants.
The Rise of AI-supported Job Decisions
AI now plays a meaningful role in how young professionals evaluate career opportunities. Many rely on digital tools to interpret job postings, gauge workplace culture and decide where to invest their time when applying. These behaviors indicate a shift in how early-career workers approach the hiring process and assess potential risks.
- 67% of young professionals have used AI tools during their job search, and of those, 24% relied solely on AI advice when applying.
- Those who used AI were 43% more likely to feel very confident in their job search.
- 34% have asked AI whether a workplace was toxic before applying, and 24% decided not to apply because AI flagged issues in the job posting.
Top 5 Red Flags in Job Postings, According to Young Professionals
- “Work for exposure”
- “Must thrive under pressure”
- “Willing to take on anything”
- “Wear many hats”
- “Internship to start”
Confidence, Caution and Expectations for Employers
As reliance on AI grows, young workers balance optimism about its benefits with concerns about accuracy and fairness. Their experiences demonstrate that AI can facilitate stronger decision-making, yet it also raises new questions about trust.
- One in 10 young professionals feel that using AI during the job search can provide a significant competitive edge.
- 79% of young professionals think companies should be required to disclose if they use AI to evaluate or screen job applicants.
- 39% said they’ve received misleading or incorrect job-related information from an AI tool.
- 38% of those who use ChatGPT while job searching report finding misleading job-related information.
- 78% say AI cannot replace personal intuition/gut feeling or emotional intelligence.
Using AI Wisely as You Navigate Your Next Steps
As AI becomes an increasingly significant part of the job search, young professionals are learning how to balance technology with their own judgment. These tools can help you understand job postings, spot red flags and feel more confident as you plan your next move, but they’re not a substitute for intuition or real-world insight. By treating AI as a guide rather than a decision-maker, you can stay informed, ask stronger questions and make choices that genuinely support your career goals.
Methodology
A survey of 1,077 full-time employees aged 22 to 28 was conducted on behalf of Florida Tech to explore the use of AI in young professionals’ job searches. Respondents answered questions about their engagement with AI tools, confidence in job-search decisions, perceptions of accuracy and expectations for employer transparency.
About Florida Institute of Technology
Florida Institute of Technology’s online division offers flexible, research-driven programs designed for working adults who want to advance in business, education, health care and technology. Students benefit from experienced faculty, personalized support and access to the same high-quality curriculum Florida Tech is known for, all in a format that fits around professional and personal commitments. Explore Florida Tech’s online graduate degree programs designed to build in-demand skills and support long-term career growth today.
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