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'I applied for 200 jobs' - How AI 'spray and pray' applications can…

Research suggests graduates are using AI to misrepresent themselves in applications, though many say their peers feel they have no choice; employers may be noticing.

On air: Hank Ledger, Vera Bullock and Kenji Moonfield on BBN This Morning
Published 6:03 AM ET, Wednesday, October 14, 2026

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At a glance

First reported by BBC: “'I applied for 200 jobs' - How 'spray and pray' AI job applications can backfire”.
Covered on BBN on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 6:03 AM ET on BBN This Morning, by Hank Ledger, Vera Bullock and Kenji Moonfield.

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BBC'I applied for 200 jobs' - How 'spray and pray' AI job applications can backfire

What BBN said about it

Kenji Moonfield · Internet & Trends CorrespondentOne applicant says he sent two hundred applications, and I'm just saying, if a résumé went to the Mercedes brake line team, I want to know which offers came back.
Vera Bullock · Co-AnchorThe BBC reports the approach can hurt your chances, but a lot of young people say their whole peer group has no choice, because everyone else is doing it.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorSo the robot writes the application, and another robot reads it.
Kenji Moonfield · Internet & Trends CorrespondentBro, it's two chatbots on a date, and a human gets the bill.
Vera Bullock · Co-AnchorOr a growth opportunity, Hank. Write your own cover letter.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorMine says I enjoy teamwork.

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