Set Clear AI Usage Policies in Job Descriptions
While 85.5% of NEET respondents reported knowing what
generative AI is, 48.6% reported they’re worried that using AI could
harm their chances of being hired.
Employers should make it clear when AI is appropriate and if
as an employer you accept its usage in the application process. By
communicating these guidelines clearly in job adverts, you can remove the
uncertainty candidates feel and build their confidence. You could even invite
applicants who use AI to share how they used it, so across the board there is
more transparency.
Provide AI Training for NEET Candidates
Generative AI has the potential to simplify complex and
time-consuming tasks, such as applying for jobs. However, only 26.6% of
respondents reported using AI at some point in their application process.
Of these, 12.1% used it primarily for indirect tasks like researching
roles or practicing for interviews, while 14.5% used AI directly to apply
for jobs.
To help NEET candidates take full advantage of AI, employers
can offer free access to AI tools and provide training on how to use them
effectively. This will not only improve their confidence in navigating the job
market but also help them develop valuable digital skills. Partnering with
organisations like Movement to Work can further assist in delivering free AI
training and offering access to trustworthy educational resources on gen AI.
Align Training with Future AI Skills
As AI becomes a bigger part of the workplace, employers should
anticipate which skills will be most in-demand in the coming years. By
investing in training, employers can help NEET young people develop the AI
skills they will need for future roles.
Collaborating with organisations like The Prince’s Trust can ensure that young people are given the chance to gain relevant, job-ready skills. Hosting workshops or offering internships focused on AI will also help NEET candidates prepare for a working environment that could heavily involve AI.
Making Recruitment Inclusive with AI
With 17.9% of respondents reporting medical
conditions that affect their daily activities, AI tools can help by quickly
matching them with suitable job vacancies, saving time on job searches.
Employers can support these candidates by simplifying application instructions,
being transparent about the process they follow to find successful candidates
and reconsidering whether the qualifications noted in job descriptions are
always necessary. Offering reasonable adjustments and allowing candidates to
use AI to streamline the process will make recruitment more inclusive.
Use AI to Provide Personalised Feedback
Generative AI also offers opportunities for employers to give
personalised feedback to unsuccessful candidates, especially when there is a
high volume of applications. AI can quickly generate constructive feedback from
interview notes or CVs, helping candidates understand how to improve.
This would be especially beneficial for NEET young people,
who may need more guidance and understanding on how to enhance their future
applications.
Moving Forward
Generative AI is a powerful tool, but the data shows many
NEET young people are still uncertain about its role in the job market.
Employers can address this by being transparent about AI use during the
application process, providing training, and making the recruitment process
more accessible.
By following these steps, employers can not only help NEET
candidates navigate AI confidently but also help prepare their own teams for a
future that could heavily involve AI.
