TRANSCRIPTS. ChatGPT and Employability Perceptions in Higher Education: A Qualitative Study on Soft Skills

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT are transforming the development of essential soft skills, particularly complex problem solving, critical thinking, and creativity, in higher education. This study examines the impact of using and not using ChatGPT on university students' perceptions of employability and their readiness for a technology-driven labor market. Adopting a qualitative approach, the research involved 32 students from the Faculty of Commerce and Tourism at Complutense University of Madrid. Data were collected through an 800-word contingency plan task and eight focus groups, divided equally between ChatGPT users and non-users. Thematic analysis was conducted using Grounded Theory and Atlas.ti software to identify emergent patterns and categories. Findings indicate that ChatGPT use enhances time efficiency, adaptability, and AI-assisted creativity, while non-use fosters originality, ethical reasoning, and teamwork. These insights underscore the complementary roles of technology and human-centered skills, offering evidence to support balanced educational strategies. The study advocates for integrating AI tools into university curricula to address the dynamic needs of the workforce while preserving essential interpersonal skills.