Main image of article Using Generative AI for Interview Prep

Summary

Prepping for job interviews takes a lot of work—especially if you do it right. Can AI streamline this part of the hiring process? While it’s definitely possible to leverage AI tools for interview prep, there are also some downsides. Let’s explore!

First things first: whether you’re a job candidate, a hiring manager, or a recruiter, generative AI is fundamentally changing how people are hired. How?

  • AI-Powered Screening: Many companies use AI-powered tools to screen resumes and cover letters, identifying candidates who best match specific job requirements.
  • Chatbot Interviews: AI-powered chatbots can conduct initial interviews, asking pre-programmed questions to assess basic qualifications and communication skills.
  • Video Interview Analysis: AI can analyze video interviews to assess nonverbal cues, such as body language and tone of voice.

If you’ve submitted a resume anywhere in the past several years, chances are very good it was initially screened by automated software designed to sort candidates based on their education and skills. When applying for any job, it’s critical to incorporate all the skills mentioned in the job posting that you’ve mastered into your resume; those skills are often used as keywords for automated resume scanners.

As a job candidate, you can use generative AI to help prepare the written parts of your application, such as the resume and cover letter. But you can also use it to help speed up your interview prep, whether the interview in question is with a chatbot or a live hiring manager.

To effectively prepare for AI-driven interviews, consider practicing with AI-generated interview questions. The great thing about generative AI is that it’s adaptable to pretty much any tech job position. Here are some quick sample prompts:

  • Prompt 1: Generate 10 common interview questions for [your target tech job].
  • Prompt 2: Create 5 behavioral interview questions focused on teamwork and collaboration for [your target tech job].
  • Prompt 3: Develop 3 technical interview questions for [your target tech job].

Use those questions for practice; you can also ask your generative AI tool of choice for the answers. Be aware, though, that generative AI can and will give you the wrong answers to technical questions; always double-check the outputs for accuracy.

Write out your answers to interview questions (in as much detail as possible) and ask your generative AI tool for an evaluation. For example:

  • Prompt 1: Provide feedback on the following answer to a job interview behavioral question for [your target tech job]: [Your answer].

Although AI can provide valuable feedback on your answers, suggesting improvements in clarity and conciseness, keep in mind that those answers (particularly behavioral and background ones) should be unique to you. Whatever the tool’s output, always take a “human pass” to ensure the answer incorporates your knowledge and experience.

You can ask generative AI to simulate (in text-based form, of course) a tech interview. Here are some sample prompts:

  • Prompt 1: Simulate a 30-minute interview with a hiring manager for [your target tech job].
  • Prompt 2: Role-play a technical interview with a panel of engineers for [your target tech job].

The output will feature a sample Q&A and cover both behavioral and technical questions. While this isn’t necessarily how a real-life interview will flow, you can use the output to prepare your answers to likely questions.

While AI can be a powerful tool for interview preparation, it's essential to use it wisely. Here are some tips:

  • Don't Rely Solely on AI: While AI can provide valuable insights, it's crucial to combine it with traditional preparation methods, such as practicing with a friend or mentor.
  • Be Authentic: Avoid over-relying on scripted answers. Instead, focus on tailoring your responses to the specific job and company.
  • Double-Check the Technical Outputs: If generative AI gives you an answer to a technical question during practice, double-check to ensure it is accurate using a third-party source. You don’t want the question to pop up during the actual interview and give a wrong answer.

By effectively leveraging generative AI, you can potentially speed up the time-consuming preparation necessary to ace a job interview. Good luck!