More than half of UK employers avoid AI in recruitment

More than half (55%) of UK employers do not use artificial intelligence in recruitment, according to research by Morgan McKinley. The figure puts the UK behind the global average: 36% of employers worldwide do not use AI for hiring, the research says.

Jobseekers also show reluctance. More than a quarter (28%) of UK candidates say AI-based assessments would make them less likely to apply for a job, compared with 23% globally. At the same time, 78% of candidates worldwide use AI at some point in their job search.

Two in five UK employers say AI has made it harder to verify applicants’ skills. Recruiters also report receiving more applications to process. Morgan McKinley UK Senior MD Chris Lawton said employers would need to balance AI’s benefits with transparency and human oversight as candidates use AI in job searches and employers check skills and experience.

Concerns about jobs persist: 46% of employees worldwide worry AI could replace their job, while 64% of employers say it has not affected headcount. The research also points to a training gap. One in four workers believe their employer is investing enough in their AI development, while 68% say they have received inadequate or no AI training. Lawton called for organisations to provide people with skills, guidance and governance to use AI effectively and responsibly.