Job seekers have found a new trick up their sleeve: ‘white fonting,’ a technique designed to outwit AI-driven resume filters. The popularity of this trick has exploded, especially on platforms like TikTok, leading many to wonder: Is it innovative or deceptive?
The principle behind white fonting is uncomplicated. Applicants embed a roster of pertinent keywords—often extracted directly from the job description—into their resumes in white text. AI algorithms, notorious for scanning for such keywords, pick these up and thereby increase the chances of the resume progressing to a human reviewer. This technique seems particularly appealing in an ever-competitive job market, fueled by easy-to-submit online applications and a higher number of candidates than ever.
But is white fonting as foolproof as it seems?
At KPR, specialists in technical professional recruitment, we see the repercussions of such practices and the pitfalls of an overreliance on AI tools.
The Risks and Repercussions of AI-Driven Hiring
According to data from market research company Gartner, many businesses deploy AI tools in their hiring processes. While automation certainly speeds up recruitment, it can also create barriers for worthy candidates. Some applicants have been leveraging the use of white fonts since the advent of online job boards, but with the escalation of automated screenings, the trend is resurging.
Nevertheless, there are chinks in the armour. For example, if a candidate uses white fonting, sometimes the automated system will copy sections of the resume into the application, revealing the ‘invisible’ text.
Additionally, some applicant tracking systems are smarter than we give them credit for; they assess resumes based on a broader context rather than just keyword-spotting. So, if an essential keyword is missing, the system may deduce that the candidate probably possesses that skill based on their overall career trajectory.
White Fonting: A Double-Edged Sword
While some recruiters might overlook the use of white fonting if the candidate is otherwise a strong match, it can cast a shadow over the applicant’s integrity. Trust is pivotal in any professional relationship, and using such tactics could start things off on the wrong foot.
The KPR Approach: Human Insight Meets Tech
At KPR, while we are enthusiasts of technology, we advocate that human insight—fueled by real-world experience, empathy, and emotional intelligence—remains irreplaceable. In our ongoing series about AI and the future of work, we have highlighted the benefits of technology but also its limitations. Especially in light of the resurgence of tactics like white fonting, it’s vital to remember that AI tools are not foolproof.
The Way Forward
Instead of relying solely on AI tools or resorting to questionable tactics like white fonting, consider a more balanced approach. Leverage technology for efficiency but always make room for human intuition and judgment. Using the job description as a roadmap, take the time to tailor your resume to genuinely reflect your skills and experiences. In this way, you’ll stand a better chance of attracting the right talent or finding the perfect job opportunity.
Join the Conversation
Have you experienced the pros and cons of AI in recruitment? Or have you been a victim or beneficiary of white fonting? We invite you to share your experiences and thoughts. Together, let’s navigate the complexities of modern recruitment.
Written by John Marshall
