It Should Be Harder to Apply for a Job. No, Really

Job applications have become so easy that they are now creating problems for both employers and job seekers. AI tools now allow applicants to generate customized resumes and cover letters instantly, while browser extensions and job platforms enable applications with just a few clicks, causing recruiters to receive thousands of applications per job posting. This flood of low-quality and AI-generated applications makes it harder for qualified candidates to stand out and forces recruiters to spend enormous time filtering through submissions, while simultaneously many job seekers report difficulty finding positions despite record application volumes. To address this, some recruiters and platforms are now deliberately adding friction to the application process, such as screening interviews conducted by AI, in hopes of reducing the number of unqualified or fraudulent applications and making hiring more manageable.