When it comes to assessing international credentials in terms of job experience, skills, and education, AI hiring tools are falling short, according to a recent report from Upwardly Global, an immigrant professional placement firm. This report sheds light on the significant gaps in AI-powered hiring tools’ ability to recognize the qualifications of immigrant and refugee job applicants. The study aimed to evaluate skills, guide applicants through the job market, and compare their credentials against labour market data.
However, the findings revealed that the AI tool “underperformed on almost every measure.” It inaccurately identified education 35% of the time and work experience 20% of the time, resulting in incorrect recommendations for upskilling, training programs, and job opportunities.
These limitations in AI tools present a significant barrier for over two million work-authorized immigrants, refugees, and asylees in the U.S. who possess professional qualifications but remain underemployed or unemployed. These individuals are often excluded from mainstream AI hiring products, preventing industries from harnessing their valuable skills and experiences.
The issue with AI hiring tools goes beyond misidentifying skills; it also extends to the problem of bias in the hiring process. Upwardly Global’s findings mirror the concerns raised by other researchers across different industries. The adoption of AI in HR processes has led to unintentional bias in hiring, which can have severe consequences, as seen in a recent case where an online tutoring agency had to pay a hefty sum due to AI-driven age discrimination.
Furthermore, the rapid implementation of AI by HR departments has outpaced legislation, creating a situation where employers operate without clear guidelines.
Cultural differences also pose challenges, particularly during interviews, where body language, customs, and storytelling styles may differ from what is expected in the U.S. job market. Recognizing and accommodating these cultural differences is vital in ensuring a fair hiring process.
With millions of job openings and a growing number of companies using AI screening tools for hiring, it’s crucial to address these issues promptly. Skilled immigrants have the potential to fill jobs across various skill levels and contribute significantly to their communities and industries. Getting the hiring process right is not just a matter of fairness; it’s an economic imperative.
