One out of three jobseekers in Hong Kong SAR use AI tools in job search

Hays, the world's leading recruitment and workforce solutions specialist, found that over half of employers have seen an increase in applications and one-third of jobseekers are applying for more jobs, through the use of generative AI.  
 
Key findings: 

The emergence of mainstream Generative AI has not only changed the way people work, but also how they approach job applications. A poll conducted by Hays revealed that Gen AI is reshaping candidate behaviour, with a third applying for more roles. 
 
This shift in behaviour highlights a growing divide in how individuals are adapting to AI tools. A third (32 per cent) of respondents report an increase in the number of job applications submitted since the mass-adoption of AI. Nearly half (48 per cent) say their personal habits remain unchanged. This suggests that while AI is boosting candidates’ job searches and making the process more efficient, others are more cautious or unaware of the potential benefits.  
 
The data points to a transitional moment in the job market where digital fluency and openness to new tools could increasingly influence candidate competitiveness and visibility. Generative AI offers both opportunities and challenges in this evolving landscape. The innovation enables job seekers to streamline their application process by helping them craft tailored CVs and even simulate interview responses. This can boost confidence and efficiency, especially for those navigating competitive or unfamiliar industries.  
 
In Hong Kong: AI being used to polish CVs, tailor them for the job 
 
Hays insights show that AI is gradually becoming an integral part of the job search process in Hong Kong. 39 per cent of jobseekers are leveraging AI tools to support their applications, with the most common use being to refine CV language and manage translations (68 per cent). 55 per cent also use AI for ‘smart resume enhancements,’ tailoring their CVs to better align with specific roles. 
 
However, there are concerns around authenticity, over-reliance on the technology, and the risk of producing generic or misleading content. Candidates who fail to personalise AI-generated materials may struggle to stand out, and employers may begin scrutinising applications more closely for signs of automation. The shift is also making it increasingly difficult for hiring managers to sift through high volumes of CVs and identify candidates with the right skills and potential. As AI becomes more embedded in recruitment, striking the right balance between tech-enabled support and genuine self-representation will be key. 
 
Adrian Lam, Regional Director at Hays Hong Kong SAR comments: 
 
 
“Generative AI is accelerating change in recruitment, but its impact goes beyond jobseekers: it’s reshaping how organisations think about talent acquisition. Employers may need to anticipate higher application volumes and consider how technology can support smarter screening and assessment. This isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about ensuring that hiring decisions remain fair, transparent, and focused on skills rather than automation.” 
 
“At the same time, AI opens up opportunities for businesses to innovate in candidate engagement. From personalised communication to predictive analytics, the potential is significant, but it requires a thoughtful approach. Organisations that combine technology with human insight will be best placed to attract and retain the right talent in an increasingly competitive market.” 

 

 

Bill Wang, Assistant Marketing Manager, Greater China, Hays  

T: +86 21 2322 9697

E: Bill.wang@hays.cn

 

About Hays Hong Kong SAR  
Hays Specialist Recruitment Hong Kong is the one of the leading specialist recruitment companies in Hong Kong SAR in recruiting qualified, professional and skilled people across a wide range of industries and professions.  
  
Hays has been in Hong Kong SAR for 20 years and boasts a track record of success and growth. At Hays in Hong Kong SAR, we operate across the private and public sector, dealing in permanent and contracting positions, and workforce solutions such as recruitment process outsourcing (RPO) in the following specialisms: Accountancy & Finance, Banking & Financial Services, Construction, Digital Technology, Engineering, Finance Technology, Human Resources, Information Technology, Insurance, Legal, Life Sciences, Marketing & Digital, Office Professionals, Property, Procurement, Supply Chain, Sustainability and Sales. We continue to strengthen our position across Asia, with active operations in Hong Kong SAR, mainland China, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.

 

About Hays 

Hays plc (the "Group") is the world’s leading specialist in recruitment and workforce solutions. The Group is the expert at recruiting qualified, professional, and skilled people worldwide, being the market leader in the UK, Germany, and Australia and one of the market leaders in Continental Europe, Latin America, and Asia. The Group operates across the private and public sectors, dealing in permanent positions, contract roles and temporary assignments. As of 30 June 2025, the Group employed over 9,500 staff operating from 207 offices in 31 countries. For the year ended 30 June 2025: