Representational image (Gerd Altmann from Pixabay)    Pixabay

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) has permeated various facets of our lives, it’s no surprise that its integration into the job market has become a topic of heated discussion worldwide. Many fear that AI might replace human jobs, but the reality is, if utilised effectively, it can actually propel one’s career to new heights — starting with securing more job interviews.

Recent research published in the journal Oxford Economic Papers sheds light on the significant impact of AI knowledge on job prospects in the UK. Conducted by researchers from Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), the study revealed that graduates with experience in artificial intelligence are more likely to receive job interviews and command higher salaries.

The consequential AI capital

The experiment involved matched pairs of applicants, each comprising one candidate with AI knowledge and another without, submitting their CVs for various job openings. Despite the CVs being largely similar, applicants with AI capital, indicated by completion of an “AI in business” module, garnered a remarkable advantage.

Male applicants with AI capital received interview invitations 54% of the time, compared to 28% for those without. Similarly, female applicants with AI knowledge received interview invitations 50% of the time, as opposed to 32% without.

Moreover, applicants with AI qualifications, regardless of gender, were offered jobs with wages averaging 12-13% higher than those without such credentials. This trend was particularly pronounced in larger firms, where candidates with AI capital were 36 percentage points more likely to secure interviews.

“Our study clearly indicates that employers value AI knowledge and skills among job applicants. Those applicants with AI capital were significantly more likely to be invited to interview and were also more likely to have access to better paid jobs,” said lead author, Professor Nick Drydakis.

He attributed this trend to the transformative effects of AI on the workforce, which has even prompted firms to prioritise candidates with AI skills to meet evolving demands. Further, he emphasised the value placed by employers on AI knowledge, highlighting its potential to enhance business operations and productivity.

These findings indicate that embracing AI as an ally rather than a threat can open doors to myriad opportunities in the job market. By acquiring AI knowledge, individuals can position themselves as valuable assets to employers and navigate the changing landscape of work with confidence.

The study was recently published in the journal Oxford Economic Papers and can be accessed here.