AI interviews are now a standard part of the hiring process. You may be asked to record answers on video, speak with a chatbot interviewer, or meet with a recruiter who is using AI tools behind the scenes. If you’re wondering how AI interviews work — and how to pass one — here’s what you need to know.
What is an AI interview?
AI interviews now have three common formats:
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One-way recorded interviews:
The candidate records answers to set questions. AI software may transcribe, score, or summarize the responses. (For more about this type of interview, see my post Automated Video Interview Tips for Success.)
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AI live conversational interviews:
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The candidate answers questions from a chatbot or avatar interviewer in real time.
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Employers often use this format for early screening.
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AI-assisted human interviews:
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AI may analyze the conversation and create scoring summaries for recruiters. You may not know the interviewer is using these tools, and your experience as a candidate may feel the same as a traditional interview.
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In a one-way or chatbot interview, the challenge is to sound natural in a situation that may feel awkward or artificial.
How do you act naturally in an AI interview?
The key is to use your imagination: pretend an interviewer is present. If you do, you’ll feel more motivated and at ease. You’re also more likely to use the right body language.
Will the AI software analyze your facial expressions or body language? Usually not. Some early platforms tried to analyze facial expressions and tone of voice. But this approach faced scientific criticism, legal scrutiny, and concerns about bias and accuracy. Because of these concerns, most current systems focus less on psychology and more on job-related factors such as:
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Keywords and competencies
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Structure and clarity
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Relevance to job description
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Communication quality
That said, nonverbal cues such as posture, eye contact, and professional appearance still matter, because a human recruiter may review the recording.
So forget about the machine, and talk through it to the real person who may be viewing later. While AI tools do assist in candidate evaluation, human beings are involved at nearly every step in the evaluation process.
Can AI tell if an interviewee is lying?
Developers and employers have moved away from AI-based lie detection because of accuracy concerns, bias risks, and legal exposure. What AI can do is flag inconsistencies or vague answers, which will then be evaluated by HR staff.
Whether you’re talking to a live human or being recorded for later analysis, the best way to inspire trust is to be trustworthy. (There’s almost always an honest answer that will work for even seemingly impossible questions.) This is one of many ways in which success in an automated interview is based, to a large extent, on the same factors that will make you successful in a live interview.
Can you opt out of an AI interview?
Sometimes. In some states and cities, employers must tell you if AI is part of the hiring process. In certain cases, you can ask for a different format or request a human review.
Will opting out hurt your chances? It shouldn’t. But hiring decisions are made by people, and responses can vary. If you decide to ask, keep your tone positive and professional. Focus on wanting to present your skills as clearly as possible.
Policies and workplace culture differ by employer and location.
Is AI interviewing here to stay?
Yes. Its use is growing across industries and job levels. Learn how to succeed in an AI interview so you can move forward to the human decision-makers — and land the job.  (This post has been updated in 2025.)
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