A recent Kyodo News survey revealed that over half of Japan’s prominent firms refrain from utilizing artificial intelligence in their recruitment processes for new graduates. This finding underscores a conservative approach when it comes to depending on AI for staffing decisions, even as this technology sees increasing adoption across workplaces.
Out of the 117 firms polled from different sectors such as Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. and Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp., 64 stated that they do not employ AI for hiring processes. Conversely, 36 indicated their utilization of AI in certain ways, where 19 mentioned analyzing job applications as the predominant application.
Seven firms mentioned using this technology for analyzing online interviews, whereas others utilize it for additional tasks like transcription of interviews or addressing candidate questions.
None of the firms reported using AI for evaluating face-to-face interviews.
The survey, conducted from mid-March to early April with responses from various companies, revealed worries regarding possible prejudices in AI-driven evaluations as well as skepticism concerning the technology’s capability to reliably assess students’ skills.
Some argued that depending solely on AI trained with a company’s internal hiring data might “hurt diversity,” whereas others emphasized the significance of direct interaction between recruiters and job seekers.
Many companies that actively use artificial intelligence believe the technology can improve fairness in the selection process by minimizing dependence on personal judgments. This view sharply contrasts with those businesses worried that AI might bring new forms of bias.
The overdependence on artificial intelligence has been flagged as a concern in guidelines released by the Japanese government in March. The document noted that relying on AI for crucial choices like hiring processes would be deemed inappropriate.
Out of the 36 firms utilizing artificial intelligence for their screening procedures, 32 indicated that they adhered to these regulations, indicating a cautious stance towards employing this technology in making ultimate decisions.
In the meantime, 17 firms failed to offer a straightforward answer regarding their use of AI in the recruitment process.
