I stumbled across a couple of Tiktoks talking about this new research paper on the impact of LLMs or hiring. And after digging into it the paper (Making Talk Cheap: Generative AI and Labor Market Signaling) its clear that it just dropped a bomb on traditional hiring… and explains many of the conversations I’ve had with people struggling with their job search. I’m not in HR, recruiting or hiring but I’ve spent ALOT of time with AI and know what it’s good at..
Here’s the summary of the paper:
👉 AI has made polished writing basically free.
👉 And that completely changes how employers judge candidates.
For years, a great cover letter or a perfectly tailored application was a signal that you were smart, motivated, and serious. It took effort. Not everyone could do it.
But now?
✍️ With LLMs… everyone writes well. 🪙 The “costly signal” just became cheap. 🎯 And the research shows employers are already adjusting.
Some wild findings:
- Tailored writing used to strongly predict who got hired
- After AI? That signal drops off a cliff
- In simulations, top candidates get hired 19% less often
- Weak applicants get hired 14% more often
- The whole system becomes more random, less merit-based
In other words:
If everyone can write like a pro… All resumes and cover leaders have the right keywords to filter to the top (with human or AI reviewers). Writing no longer sets you apart.
So what does?
The New Differentiators: Human Signals AI Can’t Fake
This is the fun part because it’s 100% in your control.
🔥 1. Show Real Work
Less “I’m great at X.” And more links to what you actually built, shipped, fixed, improved, or created.
Portfolios > prose now.
🎯 2. Highlight Tangible Results
Numbers. Wins. Metrics. Measurable outcomes.
Everyone LOVE evidence and Data!
⚡ 3. Demonstrate Skills in Real Time
Walk through a problem. Share how you think. Consider a quick explainer video or a problem or achievement.
This is the stuff AI can’t “fake” convincingly.
🤝 4. Use Human Social Proof
Referrals. Recommendations. Warm intros. Testimonials.
Trust is still a very human thing.
💬 5. Tell Your Real Story
Your motivations, curiosity, failures, career pivots, funny moments, weird passions…
AI can help you write your story, but it can’t live your story.
That’s your edge!