Americans aren’t exactly thrilled about the idea of AI calling the shots when it comes to hiring. A recent survey by the Pew Research Center, chatting with around 11,000 adults, found that roughly two-thirds of them wouldn’t be too keen on applying for a job if AI had the final say. Their reasons? Concerns about biases sneaking in and the feeling that the human touch might get lost in the mix.
It would lack or overlook the human factor was found as the most common reason shared by one woman in her 40s during the survey.
While AI-driven tools for sifting through job applicants have become more common, the survey shines a light on people’s hesitations. The Society of Human Resource Management notes that nearly a quarter of organizations plan to dive deeper into using AI for hiring in the next five years.
Colleen McClain, a Pew Research Associate who co-authored the report, highlighted the importance of capturing Americans’ perspectives in this ongoing conversation about AI at work. This rise in AI’s role in hiring hasn’t gone unnoticed by lawmakers. New York City is set to enforce a law that demands audits for bias in AI hiring tools. Other states like Illinois and Maryland have put restrictions on facial recognition in interviews, while California and Washington, DC, are toying with regulations in this arena.
According to Pew’s research, a whopping 71% of respondents opposed AI being the decider in hiring (only 7% were in favour, and 22% were unsure). When it comes to AI reviewing applications, 41% said it shouldn’t play any role (28% disagreed, and 30% weren’t sure).
While employers have historically used keyword-matching tools to sift through resumes, newer AI-powered software gets more personal, using natural language processing to analyze candidate profiles or even chat with potential hires. But not everyone’s cheering for these AI tools. Critics, including AI experts, have flagged biases, lack of transparency, and other flaws in these systems. Some studies have even questioned the effectiveness of AI personality tests in hiring.
For those open to applying for AI-influenced jobs, the promise of objectivity is the key attraction. Many supporters believe AI can level the playing field and reduce biases. About 79% of respondents recognized racial and ethnic bias as an issue in hiring, with roughly half of them thinking AI could help improve the situation.
