Two out of three jobseekers in China use AI tools in job search
Hays, the world's leading recruitment and workforce solutions specialist, found that over half of employers have seen an increase in applications and one-third of jobseekers are applying for more jobs, through the use of generative AI.
Key findings:
51 per cent of employers globally have seen an increase in job applications since AI tools became mainstream.
32 per cent of jobseekers globally say they apply for more roles thanks to Gen AI.
69 per cent of jobseekers in China currently use AI tools for job searching.
67 per of jobseekers in China use it to polish the language in their CVs and assist with translations.
The emergence of mainstream Generative AI has not only changed the way people work, but also how they approach job applications. A poll conducted by Hays revealed that Gen AI is reshaping candidate behaviour, with a third applying for more roles.
This shift in behaviour highlights a growing divide in how individuals are adapting to AI tools. A third (32 per cent) of respondents report an increase in the number of job applications submitted since the mass-adoption of AI. Nearly half (48 per cent) say their personal habits remain unchanged. This suggests that while AI is boosting candidates’ job searches and making the process more efficient, others are more cautious or unaware of the potential benefits.
The data points to a transitional moment in the job market where digital fluency and openness to new tools could increasingly influence candidate competitiveness and visibility. Generative AI offers both opportunities and challenges in this evolving landscape. The innovation enables job seekers to streamline their application process by helping them craft tailored CVs and even simulate interview responses. This can boost confidence and efficiency, especially for those navigating competitive or unfamiliar industries.
In China: AI being used to polish CVs, tailor them for the job
Hays insights show that AI is becoming an integral part of the job search process in China. 69 per cent of jobseekers are leveraging AI tools to support their applications, with the most common use being to refine CV language and manage translations (67 per cent). 45 per cent of also use AI for ‘smart resume enhancements,’ tailoring their CVs to better align with specific roles.
However, there are concerns around authenticity, over-reliance on the technology, and the risk of producing generic or misleading content. Candidates who fail to personalise AI-generated materials may struggle to stand out, and employers may begin scrutinising applications more closely for signs of automation. The shift is also making it increasingly difficult for hiring managers to sift through high volumes of CVs and identify candidates with the right skills and potential. As AI becomes more embedded in recruitment, striking the right balance between tech-enabled support and genuine self-representation will be key.
Marc Burrage, Managing Director at Hays Asia comments:
“Generative AI is here to stay, and its influence on job search behaviour will only grow. But while these tools can enhance efficiency, they cannot replicate human nuance, passion, or critical thinking. AI should complement, but not replace, their efforts. A well-crafted CV must reflect the person it represents, not just what they have done. For jobseekers, this means using technology thoughtfully to amplify individuality rather than dilute it.”
“For organisations, the challenge is adapting hiring strategies to manage higher application volumes while still identifying the right talent. Striking the right balance between technology and personalisation will be critical. Those who embrace AI responsibly by leveraging its benefits without losing their unique voice will be best positioned to succeed in this evolving landscape.”
Hays plc (the "Group") is the world’s leading specialist in recruitment and workforce solutions. The Group is the expert at recruiting qualified, professional, and skilled people worldwide, being the market leader in the UK, Germany, and Australia and one of the market leaders in Continental Europe, Latin America, and Asia. The Group operates across the private and public sectors, dealing in permanent positions, contract roles and temporary assignments. As of 30 June 2025, the Group employed over 9,500 staff operating from 207 offices in 31 countries. For the year ended 30 June 2025:
the Group reported net fees of £972.4 million and operating profit of £45.6 million.
the Group placed around 46,400 candidates into permanent jobs and around 211,500 people into temporary roles.
12% of Group net fees were generated in Australia & New Zealand, 32% in Germany, 20% in United Kingdom & Ireland and 36% in Rest of World (RoW).
the temporary placement business represented 62% of net fees and the permanent placement business represented 38% of net fees.
Technology is the Group’s largest division, with 25% of net fees, while Accountancy & Finance (15%), Engineering (11%) and Construction & Property (11%), are the next largest.
Hays operates in the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, UAE, the UK, and the USA.
