People in the UK: how is AI changing job-seeking for university graduates?

The job market for university graduates in the UK is currently facing significant challenges, presenting the toughest conditions since 2018. According to data from job search platform Indeed, the number of roles advertised for recent graduates has plummeted by 33% compared to the previous year, reaching its lowest point in seven years. This decline in job availability comes at a time when the nation's claimant count has also risen, with 1.7 million individuals claiming unemployment-related benefits in May 2024, marking an increase of 107,000 from the previous month. Such a combination of reduced job openings and increased unemployment claims underscores the difficulties that new graduates are encountering as they enter the workforce.

The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the hiring landscape is a focal point of concern among graduates, employers, and recruitment professionals. Many are questioning how AI is altering the nature of job roles and what new expectations are arising for candidates. As organizations increasingly turn to AI to streamline hiring processes and reduce costs, the skills and qualifications sought in prospective employees may shift. The Guardian is actively seeking input from graduates, parents, and recruiters to better understand these dynamics. They are particularly interested in personal experiences related to job-seeking in the age of AI, as well as insights into how recruitment practices are evolving in response to technological advancements. This open call for feedback aims to paint a clearer picture of the current job market and the role of AI within it.