Job seekers are using AI and some appear to be taking questionable shortcuts, according to the 2024 Job Seeker AI Survey by Capterra.

Overall, it found that 58% of job seekers are using AI in their job searches. The most common uses include writing or refining résumés, finding relevant job openings or crafting cover letters.

On the other hand, some job seekers are using AI in questionable ways, according to Capterra. For example, 29% have used AI to complete a test assignment or skills assessment, potentially hiding a lack of relevant skills. In addition, 28% have used AI to generate answers to interview questions, and 26% have used AI to mass apply to jobs.

“What makes this issue so complex is that not all AI uses are necessarily bad,” Brian Westfall, principal HR analyst at Capterra, said in a press release. “If a job seeker is using AI to refine their résumé or cover letter, most employers won’t bat an eye. It’s when they’re using AI to mask a skills deficiency that recruiters need to be on guard.”

Employers can reduce potential AI deception by communicating which uses of AI are acceptable as well as shifting to video or in-person interviews, according to Capterra.

The web survey took place in July and included 2,997 respondents in the US, Canada, India, Brazil, Mexico, the UK, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Australia and Japan.