New Grads Use ChatGPT in Job Search
Graduating from college can be both exciting and daunting. As new graduates enter the job market, they begin to realize that finding the perfect job can be a challenge. In today's uncertain economy, employers are faced with tough decisions around staffing, pay, and benefits. This is where the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) comes in handy. Learn how SHRM Certification can accelerate your career growth by earning a SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP.
For new graduates, it's essential to stay up to date with the latest job search trends. According to a new report by LaSalle Network, a national staffing and recruiting firm in Chicago, seventy percent of college seniors use artificial intelligence to craft resumes and cover letters. The report found that the Class of 2023 is looking for pay transparency, promotion within the first year, and insurance coverage for therapy.
Another report by recruitment software provider iCIMS in Homdel, N.J., uncovered similar findings. Forty-seven percent of college seniors surveyed are interested in using chatbots like ChatGPT to write their resume or cover letter. While 25 percent of respondents have already done so, using the generative AI write-up can come with risks.
Among 500 HR professionals surveyed, 39 percent said the use of AI chatbots in writing resumes and cover letters was "a deal breaker" for job seekers overall. Moreover, 43 percent said it would sink the hiring chances of entry-level candidates.
Managing Expectations
New grads also expect transparency and speed from their new bosses. LaSalle found that 64 percent of college seniors expect the job search process to take three weeks or less. "They expect the [hiring] process to take three weeks and [involve] three interviews," said Laura Coccaro, iCIMS chief people officer. However, employers know it may take more than three interviews to find the right candidate.
Coccaro advises leveraging technology to communicate with candidates and keep them engaged. If possible, send text messages apprising candidates of the hiring timeline. Messaging has to be authentic to the organization to keep candidates interested. This messaging can include providing on-demand information such as employee testimonials on how the organization supports their whole selves.
Graduates also want quick career movement. LaSalle found that 54 percent of college seniors expect to be promoted within their first year. To meet that expectation, Coccaro suggests employers showcase advancement opportunities early and often. Also, consider expanding promotion tracks and provide new hires with a sample timeline and curriculum to follow, including training from internal and external sources.
Other Desired Benefits of New Grads
- Job Stability
- High starting salary (average starting salary of $66,467)
- Overall Benefits
- Mental health therapy coverage
- Financial benefits (bonuses or overtime pay for working beyond their contracted hours, 401(k) matches, financial advisory programs, and student loan repayment programs)
Employers need to articulate their total rewards package as a way to manage salary expectations. They should also highlight mental health perks and benefits for new employees, such as employee resource groups, stress management training, or time off during the workday to attend therapy sessions.
New grads also want to work, even if the job isn't in their field. Thirty-six percent of graduating seniors who accepted job offers continued to apply elsewhere. Hang on to those new hires by creating a sense of belonging after the job offer is accepted. Have a touchpoint every two to three weeks "to make them feel they're part of the company before they even start." Employers can try different approaches to keep their employees engaged and interested.
In conclusion, the job market can be complex and intimidating for new graduates. However, using resources like SHRM Certification and ChatGPT could be the way to find a perfect job that suits them. It's also vital that employers manage new grads' expectations and provide benefits that cater to their needs.
