AI in Job Interviews: A New Era or a Step Too Far?
Nearly half (47%) of UK job seekers have encountered AI in their interview processes, according to a study by the recruitment platform Greenhouse. This research, which surveyed 2,950 active job seekers, including 1,132 based in the UK, alongside participants from the US, Germany, Australia, and Ireland, reveals a significant shift towards AI-driven hiring processes.
However, the study also highlights a growing discontent among candidates, with 30% of UK respondents opting out of hiring processes that included AI interviews. Many expressed a desire for a more human-centric approach, fearing their interviews might not even be reviewed by a person.
“It’s like you look in the mirror and talk to yourself.”
Thomas*, a 21-year-old university student from northern England, shared his frustrations with AI interviews. Of the 15 jobs he applied for, 10 involved AI interviews. He described these experiences as “frustrating,” with faceless interactions that felt unnatural and awkward.
Thomas noted, “Most companies do faceless interviews, where you receive a pre-recorded video of someone asking a question, followed by up to two minutes to plan an answer, and then three minutes to give your answer. It’s strange to speak on camera and difficult to speak naturally.”
Despite these challenges, Thomas eventually secured a job starting in September and hopes for improvements in AI interview processes.
“I found the whole process humiliating.”
Susannah*, a 44-year-old scientist from Cambridge, described her AI interview experience as “awkward and humiliating.” Applying for a senior science position, she was required to participate in an AI interview without the option to decline.
The interview consisted of five questions, each with a three-minute response window, which Susannah found overly general and lacking specificity. She received only general feedback a week later, leaving her uncertain if her interview was ever reviewed by a human.
Despite understanding the logistical reasons for AI interviews, Susannah believes candidates are forced into these processes by necessity rather than choice.
“I spoke in bullet points and keywords; the real me would never talk like that.”
David*, a 47-year-old marketing consultant from Spain, found the AI interview process particularly challenging due to his autism. He described the 20-minute interview as “completely horrible,” feeling pressured to deliver rehearsed responses rather than genuine ones.
David noted, “AI interviews are one-way. They minimize investment for the hiring party and maximize pressure on the potential supplier. They’re completely horrible for the autistic brain.”
While he recognizes the potential advantages of AI, David was unimpressed with its current application in interviews.
“When I paused, the AI agent decided I was done, so it interrupted me several times and moved on.”
Tom, a project manager from Scotland, approached his AI interview with curiosity, as it was for a secondary job. He compared the interaction to a phone conversation but noted several issues, such as premature interruptions by the AI agent.
Tom commented on the limitations of AI interviews, emphasizing the lack of two-way interaction and the inability to capture the subtleties of body language. He believes human contact remains crucial in the hiring process.
As AI continues to play a larger role in recruitment, it is essential to balance technological efficiency with the human touch, ensuring candidates feel valued and understood.
*The name has been changed
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