A recent survey by Resume Builder, conducted on 1,342 managers, reveals a growing reliance on generative AI tools like ChatGPT in critical HR functions. Shockingly, 60% of HR professionals admitted to consulting large language models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT when making hiring or firing decisions. Even more concerning, one in five managers acknowledged allowing AI to make the final decision on employee termination.
AI Takes Over HR: From Promotions to Terminations and Training Plans
The AI influence doesn’t end there. Around 78% of managers used AI chatbots to decide whether to grant salary hikes, while 77% relied on them to determine staff promotions. Additionally, 66% used AI tools for layoff decisions, and 64% for employee terminations. About 65% of managers said they used generative AI at work, with nearly half using it frequently or even continuously for workplace-related tasks.
Among AI tools, ChatGPT by OpenAI topped the list with 53% of managers favouring it. Microsoft Copilot followed with 29%, and Google’s Gemini stood at 16%, while 3% used other tools. These tools were also deployed to create training materials, build employee performance plans, conduct assessments, and implement performance improvement plans (PIPs).
Lack of AI Training Sparks Backlash Over Ethical HR Practices
What raises serious ethical concerns is that only 32% of managers received formal training in responsible AI usage. Another 43% had informal guidance, while 24% reported receiving no training at all.
The internet reacted swiftly and critically. One former HR director called the practice “horrifying,” warning that AI can hallucinate and is unfit for decisions affecting livelihoods. Another commented sarcastically, “So the managers are not doing any real work and should be fired themselves.” Others joked about AI-generated exits, with one saying, “HR used to ghost you. Now it auto-generates your exit.” Another remarked, “ChatGPT is obsequious… I can see corporate dorks loving that.”
Summary:
A Resume Builder survey found widespread use of AI like ChatGPT in HR decisions, with 60% of managers using it for hiring or firing and 20% letting AI make final calls. Despite ethical concerns and minimal training, AI also influences promotions, raises, and terminations—sparking strong backlash from professionals and netizens alike.
