Bridging Technology and Talent: Gen Z’s Take on AI in Recruiting and Hiring
Luciana-Floriana POENARU – Vlad DIACONESCU
https://doi.org/10.53465/CEECBE.2025.9788022552257.273-288
Abstract: This study explores the perceptions, experiences and preferences of Generation Z in relation to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in recruitment and selection processes. The analysis is based on a nationwide survey conducted among a sample of 644 young adults aged 18 to 28 with different educational and professional backgrounds from Romania and used structural equation modeling to analyze the results. Findings show that ethical and human-centric priorities, like transparency and fairness, strongly enhance perceived AI benefits, which in turn increase familiarity and perceived accuracy. Anxiety over AI tools heightens human-centric priorities, revealing a tension between efficiency and emotional comfort. As digital natives, Generation Z appreciates AI’s efficiency but seeks clarity and human oversight. This work fills a gap in understanding job seekers’ perspectives and offers employers insights to craft fair, transparent AI hiring systems suited to Romania’s emerging workforce.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Generation Z, Human Resources (HR) Technology, Recruitment, Selection
JEL Classification codes: O33, J11, O15
Fulltext: PDF
Published by: Vydavateľstvo EKONÓM, Bratislava University of Economics and Business
Year of publication: 2025
Online publication date: 16 May 2025
Copyright: Author/s of the paper
ISBN 978-80-225-5225-7
ISSN 2453-6113
Pages 273 – 288