AI hiring tools create an 'infinite doom loop' for job seekers

The article highlights a growing friction point in the job market: both candidates and employers are turning to AI tools to cope with overwhelming volumes, yet these tools often feed a cycle of distrust and inefficiency. Job seekers invest significant time crafting AI-optimized applications, while recruiters receive hundreds of similar-looking submissions and use AI to filter them quickly. This mutual reliance on automation, as Chait describes, creates an “infinite doom loop” where more AI use begets more AI use, to no one's benefit.

Notably, the article shows that AI screening is not universal. Some organizations, like Toshiba, rely on human review of every application. This suggests that candidates' efforts to game AI systems may be misplaced. The example of Doist's experiment further underscores the potential fallibility of AI shortlists—their best new hires might have been excluded by an algorithmic filter. This calls into question the premise that AI can effectively identify the most suitable candidates, especially for roles requiring nuance and creativity.

For job seekers, the article offers practical counter-strategies: submitting cover letters, which are rare now and stand out, and leveraging networking. These human touches, rather than AI optimization, may be more effective in breaking through the noise. The underlying message is that the problem is systemic, not individual—as Chait says, “It's not you; it’s the system, and it stinks.” This commentary suggests that while AI tools may offer temporary relief, sustainable solutions require rethinking how both sides approach the hiring process. (Note: This analysis is grounded in the article's content; any implied recommendations are based on the quotes and examples provided.)