Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping every industry, and the careers world is no exception. From CV optimisation to interview preparation, AI tools offer opportunities for students and professionals to gain an edge. But here’s the thing—while AI is becoming a powerful resource, its use often feels like an open secret, shrouded in uncertainty, hesitation, and even stigma.

As Careers Advisers, we find ourselves at the crossroads of this transformation. The challenges we face are not just about understanding and adopting AI but also about guiding students who are equally, if not more, unsure about its role in their career journeys.

The Quiet Use of AI: A Double-Edged Sword

Many people are already using AI tools, but few openly discuss it. Students experiment with AI for tasks like crafting CVs, writing cover letters, and practicing interview responses, but they hesitate to admit it. Some fear it might be seen as “cheating” or unethical. Others worry about whether over-reliance on AI might hinder their personal growth or authenticity in applications.

This silence creates a paradox. On one hand, those who use AI privately may gain advantages in crafting polished applications or practicing tough interview questions. On the other hand, those who avoid AI out of fear or ignorance might miss out on opportunities to learn and grow. The result? A gap in preparedness and equity that the careers world is only beginning to grapple with.

Advisers in the Dark: Where Do We Stand?

As staff, we share the students’ uncertainty. Should we recommend AI tools? Are they ethical? What does “proper” use look like? These questions linger in every conversation about AI. Without clear guidelines or training, it’s hard to know how to navigate this space confidently.

Some advisers may shy away from discussing AI altogether, while others might feel unprepared to educate students on its pros and cons. Yet avoiding the conversation entirely leaves both advisers and students unequipped to handle the growing role of AI in job seeking and career planning.

The Need for Open Dialogue

The first step to addressing this challenge is to break the silence. We need to normalise conversations about AI—its benefits, limitations, and ethical considerations. For students, this means understanding that AI is a tool, not a crutch. It’s there to enhance their skills, not replace their effort. For advisers, it means learning how to guide students on ethical usage, providing them with resources, and ensuring they don’t feel left behind.

Fostering Transparency and Equity

To truly navigate the role of AI in the careers world, we must establish clear and fair guidelines. These could include recommendations for when and how to use AI tools, while encouraging students to pair AI insights with their own creativity and effort. Transparency is key—AI shouldn’t be a secret weapon but a shared resource.

What’s Next?

The careers world is at a tipping point. AI is here to stay, and its presence will only grow. The sooner we as Careers Advisers embrace its potential and educate ourselves and our students, the more we can level the playing field. By fostering open dialogue and equipping students with the knowledge they need, we can ensure AI becomes a powerful ally rather than a divisive force.

AI may be the careers world’s biggest open secret right now, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. The question is, are we ready to lead the way?