Artificial intelligence is expected to become a central force in recruitment in 2026, helping employers manage soaring job applications and easing pressure on both recruiters and job seekers, according to a senior executive at LinkedIn.
Janine Chamberlin, UK country manager at LinkedIn, said AI would be a “critical part of how hiring is done” as companies move from experimentation to widespread adoption of AI-driven tools.
Why recruiters are turning to AI
Chamberlin said recruiters are overwhelmed by the volume of applications per role, making it difficult to identify suitable candidates quickly. AI is increasingly being used to scan resumes and cover letters, match skills to job requirements and reduce manual workload.
She noted that around 60 per cent of recruiters believe AI has helped them identify “hidden gem” candidates—people who may have been overlooked in traditional screening but whose skills closely match job needs.
This comes amid a challenging job market. More than 10 lakh job cuts were announced in the US in 2025, the highest since the Covid-19 pandemic, while applications per role have doubled since 2022, according to LinkedIn research.
A cycle affecting job seekers
The surge in applications has created what Chamberlin described as an “overwhelming cycle”. Job seekers apply to more roles due to delayed responses, while recruiters struggle to filter applications fast enough, increasing anxiety on both sides.
LinkedIn data shows that 93 per cent of recruiters plan to increase their use of AI in 2026, positioning it as a key solution to the hiring bottleneck.
How candidates should adapt
Chamberlin advised job seekers to avoid generic, mass applications. Since AI often reviews applications first, resumes and cover letters should be tailored to roles that genuinely match one’s skills.
She also recommended simple resume formats and clear presentation of skills, warning that overly designed templates may confuse AI screening systems.
“In an AI-driven job market, clarity is key,” she said, urging professionals to ensure their resumes and LinkedIn profiles clearly reflect relevant skills.