Beverley Man Rejects AI-Led Interview as ‘Disrespectful’
▼ Summary
– Comedian Richard Stott turned down a job interview because it was AI-led, stating it felt disrespectful and that personality cannot be quantified by data.
– The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development advises employers to balance AI use with human interaction in hiring to avoid missing out on talent.
– Stott received unanimous support on social media for his stance, with many agreeing that AI interviews are not a good idea for assessing candidates.
– Recruitment director Luke Bottomley believes AI is essential for businesses to integrate but emphasizes it cannot replace the human element in interviews.
– Experts suggest employers should inform candidates when AI is used in hiring and explain its benefits to prevent deterring applicants.
A Beverley-based comedian and writer has publicly declined a job interview after discovering the process would be managed by artificial intelligence. Richard Stott, who applied for a freelance copywriting position, withdrew his application upon learning the interview would be AI-led, describing the approach as personally unacceptable. He explained that he informed the company if an in-person discussion wasn’t worthwhile for them, the role wasn’t worthwhile for him either.
Stott, who works as a freelancer, expressed his views on social media and reported receiving widespread agreement from others who felt the method was inappropriate. He emphasized that the absence of human engagement felt disrespectful, suggesting companies unwilling to invest time in speaking directly with candidates might not value interpersonal connection. He noted that personality plays a crucial role in team integration, something data-driven AI systems struggle to assess accurately. Despite his objections, Stott acknowledged AI’s potential benefits for automating tedious tasks but urged job seekers to voice their preferences to prevent AI-led interviews from becoming standard practice.
Recruitment professionals also weighed in on the trend. Luke Bottomley, a director at James Ray Recruitment in East Yorkshire, described AI as increasingly vital for businesses aiming to stay competitive. He characterized its adoption as a “one-way train,” yet stressed that the human aspect of hiring remains irreplaceable. Bottomley warned that over-reliance on AI in recruitment could cause companies to overlook exceptional candidates who shine during personal interaction.
Hayfa Mohdzaini, a senior technology adviser at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, highlighted the need for employers to find an equilibrium. She recommended transparency, advising companies to inform candidates when AI tools will be used and to clarify how the technology might improve their experience. While AI can reduce hiring expenses, she cautioned that its use might deter some applicants, underscoring the importance of balancing technological efficiency with human engagement to attract and retain talented individuals.
(Source: BBC)