ChatGPT Empowers Job Seekers to Negotiate Higher Salaries

An increasing number of job seekers are using generative AI tools, like ChatGPT, to secure better salaries and more frequent interview requests.  

According to recent survey data published by Resume Builder, 18% of U.S. workers actively job searching within the past year have used ChatGPT — with those utilizing the tool more likely to say (85%) that they have negotiated higher salaries compared to those that didn’t use the tool (52%). 

Despite the advantages, the use of ChatGPT in job applications has sparked ethical concerns and mixed reactions from employers. Over half, or 55%, of job seekers reported receiving praise from prospective employers for using ChatGPT. Meanwhile, 29% believe they were not hired because the employer discovered their use of the tool during the hiring process. 

The survey, conducted online by Pollfish on February 29, included 1,000 respondents who were actively job hunting. It aimed to understand the impact of ChatGPT usage on the job search experience. 88% of job seekers said they used ChatGPT to improve their job application quality, 76% said they used it to appear more professional, and 65% said they used it to save time. 

While AI can be used to improve application materials and assist with interview preparation, the report also stresses the importance for job seekers to balance AI-generated content with their own personal insights and experiences — to maintain authenticity throughout their job application. 

As AI becomes more integrated into the global workforce, tools like ChatGPT in job searches will become increasingly common. However, candidates must navigate this new development carefully to ensure that their use of AI aligns with ethical standards and employer expectations.