AI resumes may not be as effective as traditional resumes and could be hindering your job search.

According to Inc.com, the rise of artificial intelligence has made it much easier for individuals to create polished resumes and apply for numerous job opportunities. However, as more and more companies turn to this technology in their hiring process, it may become increasingly challenging for qualified candidates to stand out among the sea of applicants. Research from Greenhouse, a hiring platform, shows that the number of job applications per opening has increased by 111% from 2022 to 2025.

This means that on average, there were 116 applications per opening in 2022, but that number has now more than doubled to 244 in 2025. The company analyzed data from over 640 million applications across 6,000 companies during this time period. Additionally, Greenhouse reports that 65% of candidates now use AI in some capacity during the application process, including for resume and cover letter creation.

This trend has led to what Greenhouse's Co-Founder and CEO, Dan Chait, calls an "AI doom loop". As job seekers turn to AI to improve their chances of landing a job, employers are also relying on automated tools to handle the overwhelming number of applications they receive. However, it's important to note that not all AI-generated resumes are automatically rejected.

In fact, a study conducted on applicant tracking systems found that 92% of U.S. recruiters stated that their systems do not automatically reject resumes based on content, formatting, or design. Instead, these systems use eligibility questions and ranking/scoring tools to help recruiters prioritize applicants.

This challenges the common belief that applicant tracking systems automatically discard the majority of resumes before they even reach a recruiter's desk. It also highlights a major issue for job seekers - with companies receiving a significantly higher number of applications, it's becoming increasingly difficult for qualified candidates to stand out and catch the attention of recruiters. For those who do choose to utilize AI in their job search, it can still be a useful tool for refining application materials.

However, Ethan Fixell, a contributor for Inc., suggests that candidates should not rely solely on automation and instead focus on tailoring their applications to positions that closely align with their qualifications. Building professional relationships and highlighting measurable accomplishments are also crucial in standing out from other applicants, rather than solely relying on keyword optimization or mass applying. Ultimately, it's important for candidates to be able to back up the skills and achievements listed on their resumes once they reach the interview stage.

As AI continues to play a larger role in the hiring process, it's becoming a battle for job seekers to make their application stand out amidst the high volume of applicants. While AI can be a helpful tool, it's still critical for individuals to demonstrate their relevant experience, measurable results, and professional judgment in order to differentiate themselves from the competition. In conclusion, as the use of AI in hiring continues to grow, job seekers must be strategic in their approach and use the technology to their advantage while also showcasing their unique qualifications and accomplishments.

By doing so, they can increase their chances of standing out and landing their desired job.