Intricacies of an AI Interview: Are You Prepared Enough to Showcase Your Skills?
As the world of HR management shifted online during the pandemic, companies turned to AI systems for conducting interviews, citing the benefit of reduced interview durations and costs. However, this transition has posed new challenges for candidates, particularly with the increasing adoption of interviewing systems that use artificial intelligence. In these job interviews, candidates are required to answer questions within a short period, often making decision-making processes swift.
AVIs(Asynchronous Video Interviews)
AVIs involve candidates responding to pre-arranged text-based interview questions via webcam or smartphone. Unlike traditional job interviews, AVIs are one-way interactions, with candidates recording their responses without the presence of an interviewer. They may use AI analysis, utilizing natural language processing(NLP) and facial recognition technologies to assess factors such as tone of voice, keyword usage, and facial expressions.
AI and machine learning algorithms, in general analyze extensive data from past hires and their job performance to predict characteristics associated with higher work performance, using advanced analytics to make decisions based on patterns and correlations identified in the data.
They employ a negative filtering approach, meaning they focus on eliminating candidates who may not be a good fit rather than selecting from a pool of applicants, raising concerns regarding the holistic evaluation of candidates and the potential for bias in AI algorithms.
Types of AVIs:
AVIs come in different forms:
Structured interviews: Follow a predetermined format with standard questions.
Unstructured interviews: Include open-ended questions for flexible responses.
Semi-structured interviews: Consists of a mix of structured and unstructured questions to assess abilities.
For many job seekers, AI-based bots are the first hurdle they encounter as they prepare for an upcoming interview. However, whether they proceed to the next round or not, candidates often receive no feedback, hindering their ability to analyze their strengths and weaknesses. This gap is significant, as applicants often apply to multiple positions based on the job without understanding which questions related to their previous applications led to success or failure, thereby complicating their efforts to learn and refine their approach.
According to a survey, many candidates find themselves unsure of how AVIs evaluate critical features such as facial expressions or tone of voice; while some are unaware of the parameters in which they would be evaluated. This lack of understanding about AI interviews, including what characteristics are judged critically, contributes to widespread concern among job seekers, underscoring the importance of interview preparation in maneuvering these assessments effectively. This highlights the need for greater transparency in the interview process, with some governments beginning to issue legal guidance to employers on the use of AI in hiring practices.
Despite the challenges posed by AI interviews, candidates often attribute their lack of success to personal traits rather than technological shortcomings.
While hiring platforms have focused on persuading employers with descriptions of the reliability and validity of interview technology, little has been done to provide candidates with accurate expectations of the technology's data usage and analysis limits. This has left candidates feeling uncertain about how they are being assessed – a “black box” scenario.
Challenges of Artificial Intelligence Interviews
The intricacies and challenges of ai asynchronous video interviews (AVIs) present a unique set of considerations for both recruiters and candidates. Unlike traditional interviews, AVIs don't occur in real-time, with the recruiter and candidate completing their parts asynchronously. Candidates must answer a pre-recorded questionnaire that must fit within a given time limit, adding a layer of complexity to their responses. AVIs lack the "human-touch"; so the candidates are required to respond quickly, adjusting to the visual/verbal cues provided by AI. Moreover, these interviews require specific video interview software or a built-in platform capability to facilitate the process effectively.
The AI Dilemma
While AVIs may be used as an additional step in the screening process between a resume check and an in-person interview, they also pose a AI dilemma- some view the technology as futuristic and superior, capable of overcoming human bias, while others express concerns about the lack of human connection during the interview and the heightened anxiety it may cause. It's crucial to recognize that the glorification of AI technology often stems from an idealization and a limited understanding of its capabilities and limitations.
Tackling the AI based AVI Interviews
Understanding the technology involved and the pressure it creates is key to making a good impression. Staying natural despite the artificiality of the interaction is essential. To counteract the rigidity often associated with AI interviews, candidates should practice first with others online and then solo.
Preparing for an AI AVI interview involves ensuring a neutral background, good lighting, and sound quality, as well as testing technology beforehand. By treating these interviews as seriously as in-person interviews and preparing both psychologically and physically, candidates can improve their performance and alleviate anxiety.
Conclusion
AVIs, as a novel form of recruitment, can have a steep learning curve for job candidates. Being reflexive of the process and performance without judgment is essential. While facing a new technology during such an important moment can create discomfort and anxiety, experience with automated interviews can lead to better performance over time.