If you’re applying for a new job, your first interview might be with a chatbot. That might sound a bit futuristic, but today’s companies increasingly turn to artificial intelligence (AI) to conduct pre-screenings and initial job interviews. In fact, a 2023 survey found that four in 10 companies expect to use AI interviews by 2024. It saves them significant time and resources, allowing them to quickly filter out unsuitable candidates. So, how do job seekers prepare for an interview with a chatbot?
pre-interview homework
You’ve received an invitation for a chatbot interview. Congratulations! But before you rush to click on the link, make sure you’re armed with the tools and info you need to make the next HR round.
- Research the company and the role. How does your experience fit in? Do your skills and qualifications match the requirements of the job description?
- Refresh your resume and online presence. AI-powered tools may scan these for relevance.
- Practice answering interview questions. Begin by reviewing our list of commonly asked questions, then brainstorm concrete examples of how you've applied key skills outlined in the job posting.
what to expect from an interview with a chatbot
A chatbot interviewer is a conversational AI system, similar to ChatGPT, that engages aspiring candidates in a natural, two-way discussion. To get a feel for what you might expect, check out these AI-powered interview systems:
- Micro1: This avatar-led interview platform is popular for engineering recruitment. Candidates select an avatar, participate in a verbal interview and may complete skill-testing exercises.
- Apriora: A sophisticated AI called Alex conducts your video interview, asking a series of expertise-based questions. Notably, Alex's advanced AI capabilities allow for targeted follow-up questions tailored to candidate answers.
- Sapia.ai: Applicants begin with a text-only chat interview, receiving a score out of 100 based on personality traits, behavioral competencies and communication skills. Shortlisted candidates then proceed to an AI video interview designed to minimize anxiety: it’s untimed, with multiple retries if needed.
As in any interview process, you can expect questions about your background and interests, skills and experience, and behavior (for example, around problem-solving or teamwork). And the beauty of chatbot interviews is their flexibility — you can schedule them at your convenience from the comfort of your own home.
3 tips for AI-powered interviews
Speaking to an AI interviewer may feel a bit strange, so bear in mind these top tips:
1. be professional
You may not be talking to a real person, but you should treat chatbot interviews with the same professionalism as an in-person interview. AI is even capable of analyzing your body language and tone of voice, and the hiring managers will have a record of your interview on file.
2. be clear and concise
Chatbots may struggle to process or transcribe long-winded answers full of technical jargon. Keep your answers simple, and try to use keywords from the job description.
3. proofread your responses
If you’re submitting answers by text, be sure to check them for spelling and grammatical errors before you hit send.
The rising popularity of AI in recruitment means interviews with chatbots are becoming more mainstream. Being prepared can help you shine and stand out from the crowd. Are you ready?
