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AI’s Illusion of Fairness: Unmasking the Bias in Recruitment Algorithms 

 January 2, 2024

By  Joe Habscheid

Summary: As professionals jarred by the surge of AI in recruitment, it’s crucial that we take a closer look at this new phenomenon. In her groundbreaking book ‘The Algorithm,’ investigative journalist Hilke Schellmann uncovers some unsettling truths about AI-powered hiring tools. Her findings? They’re perpetuating biases and often failing to identify the best candidates. Let’s delve into what this means for professionals like us and how we can intelligently navigate this brave new world.


The Problem

AI tools, promised as impartial decision-makers, have swiftly invaded our hiring processes. Yet, Schellmann’s rigorous testing of various software tools — from resume screeners to personality assessments — presented a rickety picture. She discovered a worrying pattern: these algorithms aren’t as fair or accurate as we’d like, leading to the posing question — are these tools advancing or hampering our pursuit of quality talent?

The Experiments

One curious experiment had her speaking gibberish in French to an interview software. Weirdly enough, the tool found her a perfect fit for a supposed job. More so, a signal that the AI isn’t quite there yet when it comes to dissecting communication skills, a non-negotiable trait for legal, medical, and consulting professionals. The inference? Lack of transparency and rigorous testing are allowing these tools to make hazy, and potentially biased, evaluations.

Tackling Unconscious Bias

This raises an important question for employers — are we inadvertently nourishing the seeds of bias under the garb of a seemingly fair algorithm? This concern matters deeply to professionals in competitive sectors, like ours, where diverse thoughts drive innovation and growth. We must ask tough questions and demand answers — not for the sake of undermining the algorithm, but to strengthen it.

Practical Suggestions

Schellmann offers practical advice for job seekers to outmaneuver this twisted maze. This includes crafting a resume that uses key words from the job description and mastering video interviews. These stratagems help grip the algorithm and steer its decision to an extent. While far from ideal, it does appear to be an intelligent survival technique until these tools become transparent and more adaptable.

Final Thoughts

AI is likely here to stay in recruitment. Thus, our focus should be on understanding this tool better and refining it. Both job seekers and employers need to be prepared to contend with this new reality. After all, the goal isn’t in merely securing a job or recruiting a candidate – it’s about positioning the right talent at the right place to drive our vision forward.

#AIinRecruitment #FightUnconsciousBias #InterviewTips #ProfessionalsInMichigan


While the AI revolution gears up, being informed and adaptable will hold professionals in good stead. In our next post, we would delve deeper into crafting strategic CVs that catch both human and AI eyes, a handy toolkit for all lawyers, doctors, and consultants in our beloved Mid-Michigan towns.

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Featured Image courtesy of Unsplash and Austin Distel (_S7-KX8geL0)

Joe Habscheid


Joe Habscheid is the founder of midmichiganai.com. A trilingual speaker fluent in Luxemburgese, German, and English, he grew up in Germany near Luxembourg. After obtaining a Master's in Physics in Germany, he moved to the U.S. and built a successful electronics manufacturing office. With an MBA and over 20 years of expertise transforming several small businesses into multi-seven-figure successes, Joe believes in using time wisely. His approach to consulting helps clients increase revenue and execute growth strategies. Joe's writings offer valuable insights into AI, marketing, politics, and general interests.

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