Firms Turn to AI-First Hiring for Scale, But Jury's Still Out

Experts and companies are divided over whether the technology will stand the test of time

- Rwit Ghosh

Artificial intelligence (AI) isn't just threatening to make jobs redundant. It may be taking over the hiring process—at least the initial screening of candidates. AI tools conduct video interviews, track every expression on the face of a candidate and throw up questions based on expertise and sector. Just like a human recruiter would do.

Professional networking firm Grapevine, and firms like AssessHub, Hyring and Babblebots are helping those looking for new employees, from outsourcers to realty firms to screen potential hires from large pools of aspirants.

Grapevine uses its 'Round1' solution to interview interns. "Soon after launch, my AI took 100 interviews, something I wouldn't have been able to do manually," said Saumil Tripathi, co-founder and chief executive, Grapevine. Since launch, 15,000-plus users have given interviews to an AI to prep for future interviews or brush up their skills, he said. "In 1-2 months, this is what is going to be the future of hiring."