From Resumes to Algorithms: How AI is Changing the Way Companies Identify Top Talent

Artificial intelligence has a multitude of benefits and can be used as an exciting new resource in the interviewing process. Although this is thrilling for businesses,  potential candidates come to the table with different thoughts. The process of securing a job has been challenging during the past few years  but artificial intelligence presents an opportunity to make the process easier for both the interviewer and the interviewee. 

Utilizing AI in the interview process presents great opportunities for job seekers; convenience being at the top of the list. Imagine not having to leave your house for the first interview. This is steadily becoming a fast reality for career candidates. How exactly does this technology help facilitate the interview process? 

Artificial intelligence models have the ability to analyze recorded videos of interviews and observe interviewees in a comfortable atmosphere so they can perform at their best. Interview questions can be submitted ahead of time so that responses can be recorded within the specified duration. 

 Why are companies and organizations using AI? 

 There are many reasons why companies are turning to AI models to help with the interview process. Some of the biggest reasons include efficiency, objectivity, and data driven insights. When an organization decides to use an AI model, they can easily triple their productivity and fill open positions sooner. AI models have the ability to sort through a large number of resumes, discover if those applicants have the skills that match the job description, and then report the information to the company in order to source the best candidates. AI is also able to reach a wide variety of applicants, screen them quickly, and schedule follow-up steps faster than ever. 

  If you are headed into an AI Interview, here are a few tips to help you have an optimal experience. 

1. Create a clean aesthetic. The less distracting your background, the better. AI models  can detect clutter. The AI model is there to get your information, don’t let it be misguided by something as simple as your background. 
2. Lighting is a priority. Be sure that your face is well lit. This technology can be sensitive to facial expressions and if yours can’t be read correctly the AI may make inaccurate predictions regarding your responses. In addition to lighting,  your camera angle should be flattering
3. Dress for the interview, just as you would for a traditional face to face setting. Even if you are submitting pre-recorded responses, the way you're dressed is still an important representation of who you are and who you will be in the organization. When you are selected to continue the interview process, your video will end up being seen by the hiring manager. Business attire is typically acceptable unless otherwise indicated. Remember to keep  your look structured and neat. Light blues, whites, and neutrals like beige and grays always read well on camera. 
4. Practice speaking to your camera. Talking to a camera is not always a natural skill and may feel very awkward at first. To combat this potential obstacle, record yourself via zoom, or using the camera on your phone. You will become more comfortable and be more prepared for engaging in a conversation with less anxiety. Though it may be unnerving watching your recorded responses, it can help you see areas where you can make adjustments. Speaking with clarity and confidence will be noticed by the AI.
5. Remember your time limit. This isn't the best space to bring out a long, drawn out story. Address questions clearly, and be straight to the point. 
6. Include keywords from the job description into your answers. An important part of an AI's job is listening for keywords. These keywords are usually specific skills, tools, or technologies essential to the job. Mentioning them in your answers will boost your chances of getting to the next stage. 
7. Don’t forget nonverbal cues - AI software can draw conclusions by analyzing body language and posture. It’s important to be mindful of your body movements  just as you would in an in-person interview. A nod, smile, or gesture also goes a long way, especially in indicating that you’re an active listener. 

Keep these tips in mind to boost your chances of being asked back for another interview. 

Although AI can be extremely helpful and presents several benefits, organizations should be mindful when using the technology. Just as there are many positive factors to this automated process, there are also negative aspects to consider. AI models can be susceptible to a number of biases including : 

1. Bias toward speakers with different accents and dialects
2. Skin color, gender, or body type bias
3. Bias toward individuals who have certain education or demographic backgrounds
4. The technology can also be biased towards individuals who express emotions differently than the AI model is trained to recognize 

It is important for organizations to remember that the AI model cannot replace human interaction. Humans still need to be very much a part of the hiring process. An AI model does not have the ability to interpret human emotions. An important note to consider when using an AI model in the interviewing process is the responsibility of the company to  offer continuous updates to the technology by feeding the model with accurate  information to reduce unknown biases. Here are a few ways to help mitigate bias in these models:

1. Feed your AI model a plethora of information from different candidates. By including data from a wide range of sources, you can help prevent the model from being biased towards any particular group or viewpoint.
2. Increase the amount of data: A larger dataset can help ensure that the model has enough information to make accurate predictions. This is especially important when working with minority groups or underrepresented communities, where there may be less data available.
3. Use unbiased labeling techniques: The labels assigned to the data during training can also introduce bias into the model. To avoid this, use labeling techniques that are as objective as possible. For example, use multiple people to label the data, and compare their results to ensure consistency.
4. Monitor and test the model: Even after the testing period, it's important to monitor the model's predictions and test its accuracy. This can help identify any biases that may still be present in the model, and allow you to adjust the training data or model parameters to address them.
5. Use techniques like adversarial training: Adversarial training is a technique where the model is intentionally exposed to biased data in order to help it learn to recognize and overcome that bias. By doing this, the model can become more robust and less likely to be influenced by biased data in the future.

Using an AI model in the hiring process has great benefits and can be a transformative  resource to ensure your organization is receiving the best candidates. Knowing that  an AI model is being used in the hiring process may feel  overwhelming at first, just like anything new. However, consider the tips in this article and use them to your advantage. This technology can work for you, if you show up prepared.