Hands On TEAM BUILDER Hiring in the Age of AI
> AI is transforming the hiring process — on both sides of the table. More job seekers are using tools like ChatGPT to write polished, keyword-rich cover let- ters and résumés, raising questions for employers about authenticity, fairness, and how best to evaluate candidates. At the same time, hiring managers are leveraging AI to streamline screening, sort applicants, and prep for interviews. So, what does this new normal mean for the floral industry — and how can busi- nesses adapt? Pamela Lopez, director of talent
at Pollen Talent Floral Recruiting, has over 15 years of experience in the recruiting industry as well as hands-on experience in the floral sector. Lopez is quick to point out that she is very “pro”
candidates using AI as a writing tool, particularly if the job requires familiarity with AI on some level. “If you’re requir- ing that a candidate know how to use AI, then you need to be open to receiving AI-shaped applications,” she points out. Lopez notes that AI is beneficial
because some qualified candidates are not skilled at composing résumés and cover letters, putting them at a disad- vantage. “Let’s face it: not everyone is a great writer,” explains Lopez, “but that doesn’t mean they aren’t right for a particular position.” Younger gener- ations, used to the brevity of texting, benefit from the extra polish provided by ChatGPT, for example. It’s during the interview process,
whether in person, via Zoom, or on the
phone, when hiring managers should expect to get to know the human behind the AI résumé and cover letter. On the flip side, AI is a useful tool for
those doing the hiring. Lopez uses Zoho Recruit to screen submitted résumés, asking it to select the 10 best based on a specific prompt. Also, she asks AI to generate candidate summaries from their uploaded cover letters. She reviews these summaries quickly before inter- views, increasing her own efficiency. “AI is beneficial because it saves on
time and costs,” says the hiring expert. “Companies should understand and embrace AI and learn how to work with it better every day.”
Jennifer Sperry is a contributing writer for Floral Management who focuses on lifestyles, florals, and interiors.
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