Robot Recruiters: How AI is Helping Decide Who Gets Hired
Mar 4, 2025
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Hilke Schellmann, an investigative reporter and assistant professor at NYU, dives into the intriguing world of AI in hiring. She discusses how AI tools evaluate job applications and the unexpected biases that persist within these technologies. The conversation also touches on AI-driven video interviews and the implications of AI monitoring in remote work settings. Hilke offers practical advice for job seekers on optimizing resumes for AI systems and navigating the complexities of an automated hiring landscape.
AI is being utilized in hiring processes for efficiency, but it may overlook qualified candidates due to biases in algorithms.
The use of AI in video interviews can create a dehumanizing experience for candidates, raising concerns about evaluation transparency and effectiveness.
Deep dives
The Rise of AI in Recruitment
AI technology has increasingly become a part of the hiring process, with many companies adopting automated systems to screen resumes and conduct interviews. The use of AI offers recruitment efficiency, particularly for businesses facing a high volume of applications, as it can quickly sort through candidates based on specific criteria. However, such systems are often criticized for lacking effectiveness and potential biases, as many qualified candidates may get overlooked due to algorithmic limitations. Interviews from industry experts illustrate that while AI aims to streamline hiring, it may inadvertently perpetuate discrimination found in existing datasets.
Challenges of AI Screening Tools
AI screening tools often rely on algorithms that analyze resumes for specific skills and keywords, which may not accurately reflect a candidate's true qualifications. These tools can mistakenly assign value to irrelevant criteria, such as particular names or experiences, leading to unfair rejections. For example, an algorithm may weigh the inclusion of certain terms like 'baseball' over 'softball,' not recognizing the gender implications and inadvertently disadvantaging certain applicants. This reliance on flawed metrics raises concerns about transparency and accountability for job seekers who may unknowingly be subjected to biased evaluations.
AI in Video Interviews
Video interviews powered by AI present another evolving aspect of recruitment, offering a mechanism for companies to assess candidates without human oversight. These interviews often involve pre-recorded questions where job seekers respond without the presence of an interviewer, creating a dehumanizing experience. Candidates report feeling uncomfortable and unsure about how their responses are evaluated, as companies may not disclose whether human or machine analysis is being used. The effectiveness of these interviews further comes into question when candidates experiment with different types of responses, often demonstrating that the algorithms may fail to gauge essential interpersonal skills.
The Need for Transparency and Adaptation
As companies continue to adopt AI for recruitment and employee monitoring, there is a growing need for transparency regarding how these systems function and their impact on candidates. Job seekers are encouraged to tailor their resumes and interview responses strategically to align with what AI systems might be looking for, such as using quantifiable metrics for achievements. Additionally, awareness of AI monitoring in workplaces suggests a shift in how employees should conduct themselves regarding privacy and communication. The discussion around these tools emphasizes the importance of ongoing evaluation and adjustment to ensure fair and effective hiring practices in an increasingly automated environment.
If you apply for a job online, there’s a good chance that your application will be put through some kind of AI evaluation. But what is the AI algorithm looking for, and how effective is AI at helping the most qualified candidates get the job? Hilke Schellmann, an investigative reporter and assistant professor at New York University, gives us the lowdown on how AI is changing hiring and what you should know about AI in the workplace once you get the job.