Many companies now use artificial intelligence (AI) as part of their recruitment process. It can help them to find suitable candidates for their vacancies more quickly and efficiently.
As well as assessing CVs and application forms through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), more and more employers are using AI in job interviews. The thought of being interviewed by a computer may feel strange, but don’t worry, in many ways it’s the same as being interviewed by a person. However, there are some differences, so here are a few tips on how to get AI-interview ready.
How AI Interviews Work
AI interviews are computer-based and use AI software to carry out the interview.
- In general, you will be asked questions by text or a computer-generated voice.
- You will usually be given a set amount of time for each answer.
- The AI interviewer might ask a series of standard questions, or some based on your CV or application. They may also adapt the questions during the interview depending on the responses you give.
- Sometimes AI interviewers may also set tasks which are designed to test your technical skills or problem-solving abilities.
- Once the interview is over, the information can be used by recruiters in different ways. For example:
- The AI interviewer will ask questions and record answers before recruiters speak directly to candidates. In this scenario AI will not have any role in deciding whether someone is suitable for the job.
- Sometimes the AI will analyse interview answers and use them to narrow down the number of people recruiters need to interview.
- Some companies will use AI to lead the whole recruitment process, from assessing CVs, to holding interviews to deciding the best candidate for the job.
How to succeed in an AI interview
In many ways, an AI interview is just like a traditional one. So, you should approach it in much the same way – do your research about the employer, do your question preparation and practice your answers so you can confidently show the employer why you’re the right person for the job.
But there are some differences you might need to prepare for. Here are some tips to help you.
Before the interview
- Prepare your answers – Make sure you include key words and phrases relevant to the job. It’s really important they are clear in your responses as the AI will be programmed to recognise these and how you use them.
- Practice your answers – The AI will also look for positive body language, tone of voice and facial expression. So, practice this. Maybe film yourself and review the footage to see how you can improve. There are AI-powered interview practice tools where you can familiarise yourself with the interview format, discover possible questions and get feedback on your answers. Search online for ‘free interview practice’.
- Test your equipment – Make sure your camera and microphone are both working and you have a good internet connection. If you’re on a mobile device, make sure you’ve downloaded the app you need and you’re familiar with how it works (many offer free practice sessions or demos).
During the interview
- Treat the interview as if it was in-person:
- Dress professionally – Choose neutral colours and avoid busy patterns that might be distracting on camera
- Sit up straight and maintain eye contact with the camera to demonstrate your confidence, enthusiasm and professionalism
- Speak clearly and concisely – don’t waffle.
- Consider the interview location – Sit in a quiet room where your face is well-lit, preferably with natural light, and choose a clean background with no distractions.
Be aware of your rights
While AI can have benefits for employers, there are also risks. For example, some AI tools learn from other sources, so any bias in the source data might affect them. Recruiters should always try to minimise these risks, so their processes are fair and give them the best results.
When employers are recruiting, they must comply with laws such as the Equality Act. For example, the recruitment processes an employer use should not unfairly discriminate against you if you have a disability. Employers need to consider adjustments when they are recruiting. They should ask all applicants if they need any adjustments for any part of the selection process, including the way interviews are carried out (whether AI is used or not).
If you have any questions about the recruitment process, get in touch with the employer’s hiring manager. It’s also a great way to find out more about the job and show them that you’re keen.
For advice on acing a remote interview visit our Top tips if you have a remote interview page.