Interviewing in the Age of AI: Preparing for a HireVue Interview

-

 by Dr. Lindsey Plewa, EdD


In the last year, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in the interview process has skyrocketed and it is predicted that 4 in 10 companies will use AI interviews in 2024. (Resume Builder) Increasingly, candidates are being asked to complete a HireVue interview as a first step in the interview process.   

What is HireVue?

HireVue is a tool that relies on AI to make the hiring process efficient for employers. The company supports its business model with science and logic, claiming that machine learning is more consistent than humans, that AI will focus on skills rather than “irrelevant information like how someone was dressed”, and that data scientists and industrial/organizational scientists regularly monitor the technology for biases. Candidates are evaluated against a company’s “ideal profile” and are scored according to three categories: “top-third, middle-third, and bottom-third". (HireVue)  

How to Prepare for a HireVue Interview 

“The attributes that HireVue looks for are different for every company and every job; a behavior is only included in the algorithm if it is shown to be statistically linked to job performance for that role” says Nathan Mondragon, HireVue's Chief Industrial and Organizational Psychologist. (efinancialcareers) While this format can be awkward, how you prepare is very similar to how you would prepare for a phone or in-person interview. 

  1. 1. Know the Job Description 

It is important to study the job description beforehand just like you would for an in-person interview. Look at the “key qualifications” or the “required skills, knowledge and abilities” to get a sense of what types of questions might be asked.   

For example, a recent job opening for a Financial Analyst lists:

  • Strong quantitative and analytical skills and demonstrated experience querying, processing, analyzing, and reporting on large data sets.  
  • Functional knowledge and experience with data visualization software or other reporting tools to inform narratives and business decisions.  
  • Strong team player. 

Based on the first item listed, a question that might be asked is: Tell me about a time you analyzed and reported on a large data set. The key here is to tell a specific story that answers that question. An effective framework to tell a good story is the STAR method (Situation - Task - Action - Result). More on that here. 

2. Practice, Practice, Practice  

Perhaps the most difficult part of the HireVue interview is not talking to an actual person. This can feel uncomfortable and awkward...because it is. However, like most things, the more times you put yourself in that position, the easier it becomes.    

One way to practice is to record your stories in a private Zoom meeting, then play back the recording and ask yourself:  

  • How is my pacing; too fast or too slow?    
  • Do I sound confident and at ease? 
  • How is my vocal variety? Am I using inflection in my voice or do I sound monotone? 

Another way to practice is to share the stories you’ve developed with a trusted friend, mentor or Career Coach. Even if the person is not familiar with the job or industry, they can provide feedback on your storytelling abilities. Questions for your practice partner to think about: 

  • Did the story have a beginning, middle and end? 
  • Was it easy to follow along, or should they slow down or speed up their delivery? 
  • Did the story end strongly by showing a clear impact or personal discovery? 

3. Set Up Your Space 

Now that you have a thorough understanding of the job description, you’ve developed specific stories and practiced them, you’re ready for the interview. Some tips before you hit record: 

  • Pick a setting that is quiet and free of outside noise or distraction  
  • Ensure your background is simple; if needed, download a free Zoom background
  • Make sure your lighting source is in front of you; for optimal lighting, invest in a LED Ring Light
  • Angle the camera so that your full face is in view 
  • Tell yourself you’ve done all you can to prepare, take a deep breath and hit record 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Zicklin Graduate Student Shares Her Thoughts on ESG After Winning CohnReznick’s 2023 Gamechanger in ESG Awards

-
Image
Komal Khandelwal recently graduated from the Zicklin School of Business with a master's in finance . She was also an intern for Asp en Power, a solar energy company.   In early 2023, Komal Khandelwal received an email from the school about a program called CohnReznick’s Gamechanger in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Awards which, as stated on the program’s website, “recognizes U.S.-based organizations that are embracing environmental, social, and governance principles to drive value for their stakeholders and improve business resiliency.” The winners of the 2023 awards incl ude for-profit companies like Anterix and EDP Renewables North America, as well as non-profit companies like Eden Housing and Rethink Food.    The program also grants the NextGen Award to only one student who demonstrates a zeal for ESG and who plans to pursue a career in the field. The 2023 winner of this award was none other than our very own Zicklin Graduate student, Komal . In addition to re
Read more

Student Perspectives: Crossing the Bridge That May Land You a Job

-
Image
  MS Finance ‘24 student, Taweepan Panyasantisuk, shared with the GCMC how being enthusiastic, networking, and making self-improvements led to and enhanced his internship experience. What has been one of the most important things you’ve learned at your internship? One of the most important things I have learned at my internship is to be enthusiastic. It is invaluable, especially when you are an intern. I discovered that I could learn fast and enjoy learning when I am enthusiastic and open to learning new skills, ask for more work, and ask questions. This attitude shows that you enjoy being part of the team and that you are keen to help. Having curiosity and enthusiasm also means that you get a lot out of what you are doing, which opens a lot of opportunities. How have you approached networking at your internship? Share any one specific example that has been impactful for you. Since my undergraduate years at Baruch, I learned the importance of networking. Attending many networking sess
Read more

Student Perspectives: Making the Most of a Summer Internship

-
MS Finance, Economics, and Financial Statement Analysis ‘24 student, Mrudula Satish Wagle, shared with the GCMC how she made the most of her summer internship, leading to a full time offer and a decision to pursue further education in finance. Agility is one of the most important things I have learned at my job. Adapting quickly and effectively to changing circumstances has been crucial in meeting the demands of a fast-paced work environment. This skill has allowed me to remain flexible and proactive in finding solutions, ultimately enhancing productivity and achieving optimal outcomes. Additionally, agility has enabled me to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and successfully navigate through various assignments. Networking at work is crucial for individual growth and career advancement. As a Summer Intern, I had the opportunity to build relationships with my colleagues, who were friendly and supportive. Constant interactions with them allowed me to understand various roles an
Read more

Student Perspectives: Being a Power Business Intelligence Engineer

-
MS Information Systems, Cybersecurity and Information Assurance '23 student Palak Wadel shared with the GCMC about her work as a Power BI Engineer at Wolfspeed, a semiconductor manufacturing company. What has been one of the most important things you've learned at your internship? One of the key lessons from my Wolfspeed internship is the vital importance of seamless data integration, particularly between SAP and Snowflake, and staying at the forefront of cybersecurity. My role in developing reports emphasized the practicality of integrating data sources for real-time decision- making. Additionally, engagement with the daily threat intelligence team exposed me to state-of-the-art cybersecurity tools like Sentinel and Defender, underscoring the significance of merging theoretical knowledge with practical cybersecurity applications. This experience has reinforced the need for a holistic approach to business intelligence and data security in today's digital landscape. How hav
Read more

Best Practices: Writing a Resume

-
Image
Your Resume: A Quick 2 min. Guide Our GCMC advisor Annie Himmelsbach walks you through how to write a well-crafted resume by discussing how to divide your sections, how to self-evaluate your goals and what to include (and exclude!) in each section. Note: Both active Zicklin Graduate students, and Zicklin Alumni are always welcome (lifetime courtesy!) to schedule an appointment at GCMC when they need assistance in writing, or to review and discuss further improvement on their resume (or career development). Call us at +1 646 312 1330 For more information on the GCMC visit: http://zicklin.baruch.cuny.edu/careers/
Read more