The AI Hiring Debate: What Our Poll Revealed About Recruitment Trends

AI is rapidly transforming the hiring process, but how do professionals really feel about it? We recently conducted a poll to gauge perspectives on AI in recruitment, and the results were telling.

A Preference for Human-Led Hiring

The largest group of respondents (46%) prefer human-led hiring, signaling that despite AI’s advancements, human judgment remains paramount. This aligns with concerns about AI’s ability to fully grasp nuances in soft skills, cultural fit, and the unique qualities that candidates bring to the table.

LinkedIn follower Scott explained his concern,

"I don't think every new hire can be broken down to a statistic. That's all AI really does. Not that it's always wrong because that is far from the truth."

AI’s Role: Efficiency with Limits

While only 8% see AI as a game-changer, a combined 45% believe AI can be useful if properly implemented. These respondents recognize AI’s ability to streamline tasks like resume screening, candidate matching, and initial assessments, but they emphasize that human oversight is crucial for fairness and quality hiring.

LinkedIn follower Nancy discussed its limitations,

"We need to get back to the basics of human interaction and stop slipping away from real-time communication. AI is not and never will be authentic in the hiring process. Use AI in other areas where it’s beneficial but let’s respect our candidates."

According to recent reports, 44% of recruiters use AI to save time in hiring, automating repetitive tasks and allowing them to focus on strategic activities. Also, companies implementing AI in recruitment have reported a 30% reduction in hiring costs, as AI streamlines processes and reduces time-to-hire. ​This data makes a strong case that there is a space in recruiting and hiring where AI can be extremely beneficial when used properly.

Context Matters

With 25% stating that AI’s impact "depends on how it’s used," it’s clear that recruitment strategies should be tailored to individual companies and industries. Transparency in AI decision-making, bias mitigation, and ethical considerations remain key concerns. While many candidates view AI positively, excessive reliance on it may deter applicants, highlighting the need for balanced AI adoption in recruiting processes. ​

What This Means for Employers

For companies leveraging AI in hiring, these insights highlight the importance of maintaining a balance. While AI can enhance efficiency, candidates and hiring managers alike value the human touch. Organizations should:

• Use AI to automate administrative tasks while keeping recruiters engaged in decision-making.

• Ensure AI tools are transparent, ethical, and unbiased.

• Communicate clearly with candidates about how AI is used in hiring decisions.

At BGSF, we understand the evolving landscape of recruitment and how AI can complement, not replace, human expertise. Whether you're looking to streamline your hiring process or ensure a human-first approach, our workforce solutions are designed to meet your needs.

What are your thoughts on AI in hiring? Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments!