As AI becomes embedded in everyday work, it’s clear that it isn’t replacing critical thinking – it’s making it more important than ever. AI output is only as good as the questions asked and the judgment applied to its answers. To use AI responsibly, people must be able to frame problems clearly, challenge assumptions, and critically evaluate outputs before acting on them.

Concerns about candidates cheating on assessments are not new. Ever since organisations began moving testing online, questions around fairness, integrity, and trust have naturally followed. What has changed, however, is the ease and accessibility of tools that can be misused — particularly generative AI — and the external pressures candidates are facing in an increasingly competitive job market.

AI can transform recruitment—but only if it’s reliable, valid, and fair. Many tools on the market aren’t fully tested, leaving HR exposed to risk. We’re pro‑AI, but also pro‑evidence. Let’s make sure innovation doesn’t come at the cost of good assessment practice.