The job application process has evolved, and the initial interview stage is no longer always a live conversation with a human. Many companies now use AI to conduct first-round interviews, often in the form of one-way video interviews or chatbot assessments. This can feel daunting, but with the right preparation, you can confidently navigate these new tools and make a strong impression.

Before we go beyond that step, let’s explore the nature of both AI video and chatbot interview for a minute.

Understanding the AI Video Interviewer

AI video interviews are typically one-way, meaning you’ll be given a set of questions and a limited amount of time to record your answers. The AI system then analyzes your response based on a variety of factors:

• Facial Expressions and Body Language: The software analyzes your facial cues, gestures, and overall demeanor. It looks for positive signals like smiling, maintaining eye contact, and confident posture.
• Voice Tone and Cadence: The AI assesses the pitch, volume, and pace of your speech. Speaking clearly, at a steady tempo, and with a confident tone can indicate strong communication skills.
• Keyword Usage: Similar to an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) that scans resumes, the AI video interviewer listens for specific keywords and phrases from the job description. Using this language signals that you understand the role’s requirements.

The Chatbot Interview: A Text-Based Conversation

Chatbot assessments are text-based or sometimes voice-based conversations designed to screen for basic qualifications and soft skills. The chatbot will ask you a series of questions about your experience, your problem-solving approach, or your career goals.

The key to succeeding here is to be clear and concise. Treat it like a professional conversation, and make sure your answers directly address the questions asked. The chatbot is looking for evidence that you meet the core requirements of the job, and it uses your responses to create a profile that a human recruiter will later review.

The Winning Strategies

Here are some practical tips to help you ace your next AI interview.

1. Read the Job Description Carefully: This is the most important step. Identify key skills and responsibilities, and make a list of keywords you can naturally weave into your answers. This shows the AI that you’re a strong match for the role.
2. Practice, Practice, Practice: Record yourself answering common interview questions on your phone or computer. Watch the videos back to check your eye contact, body language, and speaking pace. This will help you feel more comfortable and confident during the actual interview.
3. Optimize Your Environment: Find a quiet, well-lit space where you won’t be interrupted. Position your camera at eye level and ensure you have a clean background. A stable internet connection is also crucial to avoid any technical glitches.
4. Answer Strategically: When asked behavioral questions (e.g., “Tell me about a time you handled a difficult client”), use the STAR Method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). This provides a structured, comprehensive, and easy-to-analyze answer for the AI.
5. Be Yourself (Authentically Professional): While it’s important to be aware of how the AI is analyzing you, try not to overthink it. Focus on being genuine, enthusiastic, and confident. The goal is to come across as a professional and a good potential fit for the team.

As AI becomes the new face of first-round interviews, candidates now meet video bots and chat-based assessors before they ever meet a human, which makes preparation more important. Whether it’s a one-way video that evaluates your expressions, voice, and keywords, or a chatbot gauging your clarity and qualifications, the rules are simple: understand the job, practice with intention, set up a clean and calm environment, and answer with structured confidence. Master these steps, stay authentically professional, and you’ll navigate AI-driven interviews with ease and stand out long before a recruiter ever presses play.

And if you’d like to get more comfortable using AI tools, try getting to know our GetLinks AI Career Coach right here at getlinks.com/ai