Human-less Resources: When HR Becomes Heartless.
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“Unfortunately, we decided to move forward with another candidate...”
It’s no surprise that in a world driven by automations, bots, and AI, automated HR responses are the norm after submitting a job application.
What is surprising is that the ‘H’ in Human Resources still remains.
AI models are powerful tools that can boost productivity (let’s skip the debate on whether they’ll replace us), but when misused, they create a cold, impersonal barrier between sender and receiver.
Years ago (I’m not that old), HR responses—whether good or bad—were unique because they came from people, not algorithms.
Today, countless applicants receive the same soulless, AI-generated rejection email. And HR managers don’t seem to care.
On one side, people fear robots taking their jobs. On the other, HR managers are helping robots do exactly that.
I’ve heard from people worldwide who’ve received the infamous “Unfortunately, we decided not to move forward” email—straight from an AI template.
Sure, companies like Amazon use smart filters to screen candidates. But it’s a different story when every company defaults to AI-generated responses, removing the ‘Human’ from Human Resources.
Why does this matter? Branding.
Brands spend millions to humanize their image. Yet, in their first interaction with a potential hire—a real human—they let a bot do the talking. A branding paradox.
The result? Expensive branding efforts undermined by a cold, generic rejection email.
Will this AI-driven shortcut hurt brands? Honestly, I doubt it. In a world obsessed with efficiency, it’s just another timesaver—one that we’ll pay for later when we have to repair what AI misuse breaks: our brand’s humanity.
So next time you receive one of those generic rejections, save your time too. And for irony’s sake, here’s an AI-generated template to reply with—because who needs humans anymore, right?
Subject: Re: Application Status
Dear [HR Manager’s Name],
Thank you for your response and for considering my application. I truly appreciate the opportunity.
I’ll be sure to keep an eye on future openings at [Company Name], as I remain genuinely interested in the possibility of contributing to your team.
Wishing you success in your search for the right candidate.
Best regards,
[Your Name]