AI Advances From Resume Screening to Conducting Job Interviews
Artificial intelligence has become an integral part of the job search process, initially helping candidates write and tailor resumes. Experts now anticipate AI will play a deeper role by addressing flaws in recruitment, particularly in job interviews. Currently, many companies use online algorithms to filter resumes, a process that can prematurely eliminate strong candidates. Additionally, as more applicants use AI to craft resumes, employers often select those who present themselves best rather than the most qualified, according to Matthew Bidwell, a management professor at the Wharton School.
The interview stage remains problematic, with recruiters relying heavily on gut feelings, which research shows to be poor predictors of candidate success. Jason Dana from the University of Pennsylvania found that unstructured interviews emphasize trivial details over relevant skills, leading to weak hiring decisions. A Robert Half survey of 2,200 U.S. hiring managers revealed nearly a third admitted to making at least one hiring mistake in the past two years, often due to misjudging skills or cultural fit.
To improve this, AI-based interviews are becoming more common. Many companies already use chatbots for initial screening via phone, text, or video with avatars. Willo CEO Euan Cameron explained that unlike basic keyword filters, AI interviews provide richer data to focus on critical skills. LinkedIn has integrated AI interviews into its automated recruiting assistant for small businesses, enabling quick, skill-focused preliminary interviews that save candidates time. Harry Srinivasan, LinkedIn’s Chief Product Officer, noted AI interviews objectively assess skills faster than human interviewers.
Greenhouse, a recruitment software firm, promotes structured AI interviews with standardized questions to better identify qualified candidates. However, some candidates avoid AI interviews due to discomfort. Researchers like Richard Landers from the University of Minnesota see AI reducing personal biases in hiring and predict future use of virtual reality for immersive candidate assessments, such as simulating emergency scenarios for nurse recruits.
Experts advise candidates to prepare thoroughly for AI interviews by reviewing job descriptions, researching companies, and maintaining professional appearance and environment during video calls. Career consultant Amanda Augustin emphasized the importance of preparation to tailor responses effectively, even when interacting with AI. Indeed’s Freya Rathod warned against using AI-generated answers during interviews, as this can be easily detected and lead to immediate disqualification.
