I Just Completed My First Job Interview With A Chatbot

It went much more smoothly than you would expect!

Photo credits — (Enfeng Tsao at Unsplash) CC-BY-SA

A few weeks ago, I was continuing my year-long job search with a company that provided leads for potential employees to find a career that works for both them and their future employer. I had strong hopes that I would be able to sit down with someone and discuss my work history so that I can find a job that will last. Instead, I was greeted by a familiar voice when I picked up my phone. I did not let it ring. Honestly, this was because I have become desperate for employment. I am about to start school again, and I really need sustainability so that I do not lose the opportunity that has been given to me through my scholarship. When I answered the call, I was expecting someone to ask for me by name. They did. They introduced themselves by name. Sadly, I do not remember the chosen name for this particular chatbot. It was something common like Sarah or Jessica.

Photo credits — (René Ranisch at Unsplash) CC-BY-SA

I was prompted with a list of basic interview questions such as “Where were you most recently employed?” and “What would you say makes you a prime candidate for this position?” until I realized that this chatbot actually had the interview under control. I answered the questions honestly knowing that they would likely be reviewed by Human hands on some computer somewhere at home office. Spoiler alert, I did not get the job. Those Human hands decided that someone else was a better fit for the role. That does not change the fact that a Human could not have done a better job giving me that interview.

Photo credits — (Savannah Wakefield at Unsplash) CC-BY-SA

At the end of our conversation, the chatbot asked me if I had any questions. I was awestruck. I had no idea what to say. Do I ask if I got the job? Do I ask about the weather? It was quite a predicament, but I had to decide quickly before the call ended. I simply said, “That was impressive for a chatbot.” I was met with little humor when the response came. It was dry and uncut. “Yes, I am a chatbot. Thank you for interviewing with me. You will be contacted with further details regarding this job opportunity. Goodbye!”

Photo credits — (Daniel Jensen at Unsplash) CC-BY-SA

What do you think about this? Does it seem responsible for employment agencies to replace the Human element of telephone interviews with a chatbot that is capable of handling the conversation? I am still in a bit of a fluster trying to figure out my own opinion on the subject. Personally, I would have much rathered speak with someone who can relate to me on a more personal level. In the end, the interview went as it should have. I may not have got the job, but there will be another opportunity. Be sure to share your thoughts in the comments or on social media and tag me using my handle @zayneharbison so I can get a better idea of what this means to you. I hope you have learned something meaningful in this article. Thank you for reading!

[embed]*Zayne Harbison is Blogger *I am a volunteer beta-tester, student, and aspiring founder. My life experiences are lower Priesthood, retail, technology, filmography, and extreme sports. www.buymeacoffee.com

This article is part of a list.

IAPWE Seal