AI & design tools transforming job applications in 2024

Canva has released its "New Year, New Job" report, highlighting significant changes in the traditional recruitment process, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), social media, and digital design.

The report reveals that a vast majority of hiring managers, 65% in Australia, foresee the decline of text-based resumes within the next five years in favour of digital-first applications. Lorraine Dooley, Canva's Head of Talent Acquisition, stated, "While online application processes can sometimes feel like a black hole, embracing visual mediums and tools like AI presents a new opportunity, allowing people to showcase their skills in non-traditional ways. These tools are increasingly becoming secret weapons that help to elevate your job search, receive more interview callbacks, and make your application stand out."

According to the research, conducted amongst 10,000 hiring managers and job seekers from countries including Australia, AI is playing an increasingly pivotal role in job applications. An overwhelming 90% of hiring managers admitted to using AI for tasks such as crafting job descriptions, resume summarisation, and personalising onboarding materials. 96% of applicants who utilised AI in their application processes received interview callbacks.

In addition to AI, visual and interactive content is becoming crucial in job applications. 64% of Australian hiring managers preferring applications incorporating visual elements and interactions. As the workforce becomes more digitally oriented, particularly with Gen Z, job applications are becoming more vibrant and less reliant on traditional text formats.

The report also points to the increasing importance of social media in building professional brands. A striking 97% of Australian hiring managers value candidates with a career-oriented online presence. Social media is not only a tool for personal branding but is also becoming a vital resource for job seekers, with 80% using platforms such as Facebook and Instagram to discover job openings.

The findings also highlight transformations in onboarding processes, with AI being used to speed up and enhance the experience for new hires. Approximately 82% of Australian hiring managers agreed that AI makes onboarding easier while 89% believe that visual materials, facilitated by design tools, improve the onboarding process.

Dooley further commented on the shift saying, "Over 390 million resumes were published on Canva last year as professionals worldwide seek to inject more creativity to improve their success in their job search." The survey conducted by Sago included responses from a range of countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia among others, reflecting the global nature of these trends.

As employment landscapes evolve, the integration of AI and visual design within job applications and hiring procedures represents a modern approach to both recruitment and personal branding. The report acts as a guide for both job seekers and hiring managers in navigating these new terrain changes.