AI Interviews: What to Know
Chances are, as an Internet user, you recall coming across the chat feature that is hosted on many websites. This pop-up will ask why you’ve come to this specific website and how they can help you today.
It is a useful resource for finding answers to commonly asked questions about products without needing to open a chat with a live moderator or spend an excessive amount of time perusing the website.
However, if your question is more complex and involves a situation such as needing a refund, the chat-bot can collect the information and connect you with a real agent.
The same methodology is now being used to conduct AI interviews for various jobs. Because this tool is growing in popularity, there is information you should know to be prepared to use this technique when job searching.
What are AI interviews?
First, let’s break down some of the different ways AI features work during an interview. Interviews can take place in different stages including telephone calls, video calls, or through a chatbot.
Telephone Interviews
When AI is used to conduct a phone interview, you will be asked different questions that are related to the job. Some questions may be generic while others may be specific to the field in which you are applying to work. As you answer these questions, AI will process your responses for the potential employer to review.
Video Interviews
Video calls require more preparation when interviewing for a position because an employer is present on video to pick up on how well you are dressed, how you express yourself with your body language, and more. While the video call will be with a real person who asks questions, the AI interview feature comes into play as AI is used to observe facial expressions, inflections in your voice, and how you respond to questions to gather more details to help employers assess if someone is the right fit for the position.
Chatbot Interviews
A chatbot AI interview consists of answering interview questions through text messages. This method allows AI to pick up on keywords that are used in responses and ask targeted questions. All the responses are collected and shared with an employer to help them decide on prospective employees.
How to Prepare for an AI Interview
Practice Speaking to a Screen
You can achieve this by hopping on Facetime, Zoom, or Google Meet with a friend or family member. Have them ask you pointed interview questions and then share your answers. You get bonus points if you dress professionally to make the mock interview more realistic!
Practice Typing Out Your Responses
One of the easier methods for employers when conducting an AI interview is to do a chat, where AI can collect keywords and details to know if you are a good fit for the position. There are plenty of websites you can refer to with typical interview questions. Take some time to formulate your responses and type them out. This will be helpful in making sure you can communicate your responses effectively. Bonus tip: Look up the company’s mission and vision statement and use this as a guide for why your skills would be beneficial to the company in achieving their goals. Then, use these keywords in your written responses.
Test Your Technology
Because AI interviews eliminate face-to-face interaction with another person, you will rely on technology to complete the interview. It is important to make sure you are in a setting with good Internet connection. This is crucial to make sure the call or chat doesn’t drop. You do not want to lose the opportunity to make a good first impression. Unsure if you can rely on Wi-Fi at home? You can visit your local library, which usually has hotspots you can access, or find a secluded, quiet room where you can do your interview.
How to Know if You have an AI Interview Scheduled
While an employer may not come out and directly state they will be conducting an AI interview initially, there are keywords to look out for in email communication to know if this method will be used. Some of the phrases to check for include “recommendation engines,” “data driven decisions,” and “predictive analytics.”
Next Steps for Your AI Interview
It might feel intimidating to have an AI interview, but the right preparation can help you make a good first impression and show why you would be an asset to a particular company.
It’s also important to remember you are looking for the right fit for an employer as well. Not only does an employer want quality people working for their company but you also want to work for an exceptional organization. You should feel confident asking questions of the employer and even seeking clarification on if an AI interview will be conducted as an initial step.
Regardless of what your interview journey looks like, Blackstone Career Institute wants to help you succeed! You can find resources in our Career Center with tips on cover letters, resumes, and more to guide you in preparing for a job application and interview.
Written by Laura Conaway
