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

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 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 

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