Job seekers are learning a new interview skill: how to sound excited about AI

Job seekers are acquiring a fresh skill for interviews: the ability to exude enthusiasm about AI. In an era where AI is increasingly integral to companies, job applicants are learning how to express their excitement about the technology, even when they harbor doubts about its limitations and societal implications.

As firms heavily invest in AI and expand their hiring, candidates are showcasing their AI proficiency and enthusiasm to stand out. Students might hesitate to share how much they use AI with professors, but in an interview setting, the dynamics flip. Having an AI story to tell can be highly advantageous.

For instance, Felisha Case was laid off from LinkedIn in May and now faces questions during job interviews about her use of AI in previous roles. She admits to having limited AI experience, as her employer only encouraged its adoption shortly before her departure. Case finds it challenging to go back and learn AI on the fly, feeling pressured to demonstrate enthusiasm for the technology.

Companies are incorporating AI-related requirements into job postings, and those investing heavily in AI are also expanding their workforce. A study by Ramp and Revelio Labs revealed that companies making substantial AI investments experienced higher employment growth than those with minimal or no AI adoption.

A current Big Tech employee, job hunting for a new position, expresses skepticism towards the broader AI hype but recognizes the potential for AI roles in terms of financial opportunities and industry trends. He believes his AI skepticism may have hindered him during an interview, where he couldn't convincingly show enthusiasm for a company with an unconventional AI strategy. However, being employed currently provides him with some luxury, making him less pressured to conform.

Unemployed job seekers often face this pressure, feeling compelled to feign enthusiasm about AI during interviews, despite their concerns about its environmental and social impacts and its potential for workplace surveillance. Kareem Osman, a vice president at Robert Half, explains that hiring managers are keen to understand how candidates have utilized AI, seeking examples of overcoming challenges or streamlining processes.

They also value candidates who can leverage AI without relying on it entirely, signaling their adaptability to new technologies.

Employers are striving to identify individuals who are embracing AI advancements. Jacob Zinkula, who covers workers in tech and other industries, advises job seekers to read the room during interviews, adapting their responses based on the broader conversation surrounding AI. He emphasizes the importance of being able to speak like an AI native to impress the right people.

However, job seekers don't necessarily have to love AI to discuss it effectively. Hiring experts suggest that candidates can be honest about their reservations while focusing on their comfort level with AI tools. Josh Bersin, an HR analyst, notes that many companies are still figuring out the best way to utilize AI and encourages candidates to be open about their thoughts on the matter.