ChatGPT and DeepSeek (R1) are both AI-powered tools with a wide range of applications. In this article, I compare their capabilities specifically in the context of talent sourcing and how they can be leveraged to improve recruitment efforts.
What are they?
ChatGPT is an AI Chatbot that uses Natural Language Processing (NLP). It is a model that was trained on a large data set of text sources using reinforcement learning from human feedback. ChatGPT generates outputs / answers using information from the web (closed source)
DeepSeek (R1) is an Open-Source reasoning model that was recently produced by a Chinese startup. This model is unique because it is open source in structure and the model claims to conserve energy / GPU usage which can save substantial development time & overhead costs.
What is the difference – aren’t they both AI tools?
Both AI tools are similar in user interface (UI) and results but have multiple significant differences.
- Open-Source vs Closed (ChatGPT is closed, DeepSeek is open). This means that DeepSeek provides more transparency (“reasoning”) and ability to customize functionality as needed. Additionally, DeepSeek has reportedly found a means to compress data allowing for easier storage, access and considerably less training.
- On the other hand, ChatGPT is closed source and per the current architecture requires more energy, data and storage usage. Per the above, DeepSeek (assuming statements are true) is less expensive and more efficient than ChatGPT.
What capabilities do these tools enable?
- Market Mapping (this is the outlining of companies in varying segments to aid in identifying talent)
- For Example: Map the top Credit Card Issuer Processors in the World (Similar detail provided per each selection)
- Top 10 SaaS Companies in the World (lists are similar)
- List development (this is the outlining of employers, products, locations and candidates of relevance to hiring needs)
- For example: What are the 5 best cities in the United States to find a diverse candidate pool of Software Engineers (responses are similar)
- Comparing Market stability (this is a means to search for unstable companies to recruit away from). List 5 US based enterprise or mid-market tech companies are most likely to be acquired or go bankrupt in 2025? The answers to this question had variance.
- ChatGPT gave an instant response (details below)
- DeepSeek was able to answer this question, but it took 8 tries over 2 days as it kept replying “The server is busy, please try again later.” The server was not down according to DeepSeek’s website.
- Boolean string development & refinement (this is the development & refinement of Boolean strings to narrow search results)
ChatGPT:
DeepSeek:
Which AI tool is better to support sourcing efforts?
At a high level these tools are very similar. This being said, as I dug into each tool’s functionality, availability and context of responses, I favored ChatGPT as a sourcing tool (in its current state).
- Availability: ChatGPT was always available and replied in a rapid manner. Conversely, DeepSeek had issues with servers consistently dropping and lag when asked more detailed questions
- Accuracy of responses: ChatGPT provided more accurate and usable responses (i.e., target companies, functional Boolean strings)
- Proven use cases: ChatGPT is a more proven entity with established use cases and per my testing over the past week is more reliable
Looking Ahead: The future of AI in Sourcing:
AI in talent acquisition is evolving rapidly, with new tools and improvements emerging frequently. As of January 2025, ChatGPT remains the superior sourcing tool, but this may change as DeepSeek and other AI models enhance their functionality and reliability.
Recruiters and talent acquisition professionals should continue testing AI solutions and adapting their workflows to leverage the best available technology. Regardless of which tool dominates in the future, competition drives innovation, ultimately improving the efficiency of the sourcing process.