Many companies are adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to assist them in making hiring and firing decisions. AI is being used in various ways to improve recruitment and retention processes. For example, AI can screen resumes and identify the most qualified candidates for a job, match candidates with suitable job openings based on their skills and preferences, schedule interviews, and reduce the time it takes to fill open positions.
With the help of predictive analytics, AI can also determine which employees are most likely to leave a company. This information allows employers to take proactive measures and have transparent conversations with employees to address the risk of voluntary turnover. Additionally, AI can evaluate employee performance and identify areas for improvement.
However, the use of AI in layoff decisions is a concern. Some companies are leveraging AI and data analysis to determine which workers are considered poor performers or are at risk of being let go. In fact, in a survey conducted by Capterra, 98% of HR executives indicated their intention to use software and algorithms to reduce labor costs.
AI-powered recruiting tools offer several advantages over traditional methods. These tools can analyze large amounts of data, automate the recruitment process, reduce biases, and help companies identify and hire passive candidates who may not be actively seeking a job. Improving employee retention is another benefit of AI in recruitment.
For instance, Phenom is an HR technology platform that incorporates AI-driven chatbots into the hiring process. These chatbots engage with candidates through text-based conversations, asking relevant questions to match them with ideal jobs and narrow down the talent pool. Furthermore, they can assist in scheduling interviews, eliminating the need for recruiters to handle this task.
LinkedIn, as a popular professional networking platform, plans to leverage generative AI technology to enhance its recruitment capabilities. By utilizing the vast amount of data available on the platform, LinkedIn aims to roll out a feature called Recruiter 2024. This feature will allow recruiters and talent acquisition professionals to use natural language to express their hiring goals and generate a pool of candidates that align with those goals.
However, there have been instances where AI has played a role in employee terminations. For example, Amazon was reported to use an AI system to monitor productivity and automatically fire workers who failed to meet certain quotas. Google also faced speculation that AI was involved in its recent job cuts, but the company denied these claims.
The issue of AI-powered firings recently came to light when an Amsterdam court ruled that Uber had failed to comply with the European Union's algorithmic transparency requirements. Uber was found to have used AI or similar technology as the sole decision-maker in actions that had significant effects on individuals. Some Uber drivers sought legal action, claiming they were unfairly terminated by AI-driven decisions.
In conclusion, while AI is being increasingly used in recruitment and retention processes, there are concerns about the use of AI in layoff decisions. It is vital for companies to approach this technology with transparency, accountability, and a focus on ethical considerations to ensure fair treatment of employees.