HR tech founder claims that job search has become more soul-crushing due to the use of hiring platforms.

For over a decade, Jon Stross has been developing technology to aid individuals in obtaining new employment. However, he is not fully convinced that current hiring methods are highly effective.

Since its launch in 2012, Greenhouse, the hiring platform, has witnessed numerous advancements in tech and AI under the leadership of its president and co-founder, Stross.

Although AI has some advantages in modern hiring, it's not effective, according to him: "The AI technology isn't helping. In fact, it's making it worse."

While businesses have long complained about the broken hiring process, the current job market and technology have made it even more soul-crushing, according to him.

Mass-applying to jobs has become the norm

Although AI simplifies the job application process by streamlining resume and cover letter writing, among other tasks, it can also result in candidates applying for jobs they are not qualified for, ultimately increasing competition for available positions.

"Stross remarks that candidates feel like they are competing with one another in a race to see who can apply to the most jobs. Social media is filled with individuals boasting about the number of jobs they have applied to, creating pressure for others to keep up."

He remarks that all of this is increasing his anxiety and angst.

Nearly everywhere, companies are receiving more applicants than openings, even those that were not highly competitive in previous years.

In the first quarter of 2024, the average number of applications per job listing on Greenhouse increased by 43% compared to the same time the previous year, with an average of 222 applications per listing.

New tech can enable bad hiring practices

Businesses are using hiring technology to post more job openings, even if they're not actively seeking candidates for those roles.

Ghost jobs create a false sense of abundance, leading to job-search burnout.

Since 2022, about 18% to 22% of Greenhouse jobs have been classified as ghost jobs in each quarter.

Stross advises that job seekers have little control over companies that post ghost jobs. He often tells his friends who are searching for jobs, "Yes, it's usually chaos on the inside," when they express frustration about companies acting irrationally.

The most effective remedy for job seekers is to obtain quality job referrals, according to Stross. This entails leveraging your network to discover job openings before they are widely advertised. Additionally, reaching out to first- or second-degree LinkedIn connections at companies you are applying to can be a valuable approach.

Hiring tech can limit bad actors and highlight positive experiences

Stross suggests that Greenhouse should prioritize preventing harmful actions from employers on their hiring platforms.

One way his team is working to recognize employers without "horror stories" is by introducing verified badges.

At Greenhouse, his plans involve emphasizing employers who exhibit effective communication skills, thorough preparation, respectful behavior, and fairness during the hiring process.

"Stross remarks that while it doesn't entirely solve the problem at hand, the approach of helping the best companies and candidates stand out is in line with the direction of the conversation."

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