AI reshapes the job search process in 2026

A Resume.org study reports 57% of companies use AI in hiring, and experts describe growing use of AI for resume screening, chatbot interviews, and a renewed emphasis on live interviews and AI collaboration.

AI is changing hiring practices, with the technology most active at the start of the process. A Resume.org study reported 57% of companies use AI during hiring. Experts say AI is being used to screen resumes, match candidates to job descriptions, and run chatbot-style interviews. That use is shifting attention toward in-person or live conversations that reveal reasoning and collaboration with AI. What we know: - A Resume.org study found 57% of companies reported using AI in their hiring processes. - Employers deploy AI to screen cover letters and resumes, match candidates to roles, and run chatbot interviews, as described by multiple talent leaders. - Researchers note AI can cover interview topics consistently and, in some cases, is judged by humans to perform better than human interviewers. - Several experts say live interviews are becoming more important to assess adaptability, judgment, and how candidates work with AI tools. - AI interview systems may analyze tone, pace, and visual cues, and chatbot responses often feed into candidate scoring models. Summary: The reported effect is a shift from paper-based screening toward evaluating real-time thinking, adaptability, and demonstrated collaboration with AI. How organizations will balance efficiency, assessment depth, and fairness as they refine AI use is undetermined at this time.