AI-written CVs are slowing hiring at two thirds of UK employers, Robert Half survey finds

Last reviewed 14 September 2026

Survey finds screening delays

Two thirds of UK hiring managers say screening for AI-generated application materials has increased the time it takes to hire, according to a survey published by recruitment firm Robert Half. The figure stands at 67% across the employers polled. Robert Half said the findings point to a recruitment process under pressure as candidates adopt generative tools at scale.

The survey, carried out by an independent research firm in June 2026, questioned 500 hiring managers and 1,000 professionals. It covered finance and accounting, technology and IT, marketing and creative, legal, administrative and customer support, and HR. Robert Half said 48% of employers report notable challenges from AI-generated CVs or application materials.

What the findings mean for applicants

For applicants, the survey suggests that a polished document is no longer enough on its own. Robert Half found that 28% of employers cite a higher volume of applications from unqualified candidates, while 27% struggle to distinguish AI-generated material from authentic CVs. Candidates who can evidence specific skills and experience may find it easier to stand out.

The data also indicates that the application stage is rarely the end of the process. Robert Half reported that 23% of employers need extra in-person interviews or screening to validate skills, and 23% spend more time verifying credentials. Applicants should expect more questions about concrete examples, and may be asked to discuss their experience in greater depth.

AI use among candidates is now close to universal in some form. Only 10% of professionals said they use no AI at any stage of a job application, according to the survey. That leaves the large majority using the technology for tasks such as drafting, editing or research, which employers are now trying to assess alongside the content itself.

Matt Weston, Senior Managing Director for UK and Ireland at Robert Half, said: "The growing use of AI-generated CVs and applications is creating new challenges for employers. When large volumes of applications appear highly polished or follow near-identical formats, it becomes harder to evaluate candidates, validate skills and experience and confidently identify the strongest fit for the role."

What the findings mean for employers

For employers, the survey points to a screening process that is absorbing more staff time. Robert Half found that 67% of hiring managers say screening for AI-generated materials has increased time to hire. That delay can affect teams waiting for cover and candidates who are already in the pipeline for other roles.

Weston added: "The increasing use of AI-generated applications reinforces the importance of human judgment, expertise and oversight in hiring. Technology can support the process, but employers still need experienced professionals to evaluate candidates, validate skills and make informed hiring decisions without unnecessary delays."

Rights and fairness in automated screening

Automated screening tools used in recruitment are subject to UK law. The Equality Act 2010 sets out protected characteristics, and employers are expected to avoid practices that disadvantage candidates because of them. The Information Commissioner's Office has published general guidance on AI and data protection, covering fairness, transparency and the handling of personal data in automated decisions.

The survey results suggest that hiring teams may need to review how they assess applications. Robert Half's figures show that 48% of employers report notable challenges from AI-generated materials, while 23% have added in-person interviews or screening. Those measures carry their own cost in time and scheduling.

Robert Half said the research was conducted by an independent firm in June 2026. The sample covered 500 hiring managers and 1,000 professionals across several sectors. The company published the findings on 14 September 2026 through its UK newsroom.

Frequently asked questions

What did the Robert Half survey find about AI-generated applications?

The survey of 500 UK hiring managers found that 67% say screening for AI-generated application materials has increased time to hire. Robert Half also reported that 48% of employers see notable challenges from AI-generated CVs, and 27% struggle to distinguish AI-generated material from authentic CVs.

How many candidates use AI in a job application?

Only 10% of the 1,000 professionals surveyed said they use no AI at any stage of a job application. That means the large majority use the technology for at least one part of the process, whether drafting, editing or research, according to Robert Half.

Why are AI-generated CVs slowing hiring?

Robert Half said large volumes of highly polished or near-identical applications make it harder to evaluate candidates and validate skills. The survey found 28% of employers cite more applications from unqualified candidates, while 23% need extra in-person interviews or screening to check skills.

What should employers consider when using automated screening?

Automated screening is covered by UK law, including the Equality Act 2010 and data protection rules. The Information Commissioner's Office publishes general guidance on AI and data protection, covering fairness, transparency and personal data. Employers are expected to keep human oversight in hiring decisions.

Who conducted the research and when?

Robert Half said an independent research firm carried out the survey in June 2026. It questioned 500 hiring managers and 1,000 professionals across finance and accounting, technology and IT, marketing and creative, legal, administrative and customer support, and HR. The findings were published on 14 September 2026.