How to Detect the Use of AI in Candidates

Introduction: The Need to Assess Authenticity.

As candidates use Artificial Intelligence to hone their profiles and responses, the interviewer's skill must evolve to detect overuse of these tools and, more importantly, to differentiate between a "perfect" AI-generated response and the candidate's authentic experience.

There are several red flags that may indicate a heavy reliance on AI during the application and interview process.

Signal 1: Overly Structured or Generic Responses

This is the clearest signal during the verbal interview.

If the candidate answers questions with overly polished phrases that sound like textbook definitions, but lack concrete personal examples or any kind of emotional connection, it is very possible that they are reciting practiced or AI-generated answers.

Countermeasure: The best defense against this is the behavioral interview methodology (STAR).

The interviewer should constantly insist on asking for real, specific examples of situations the candidate claims to have experienced, and then probe deeply into those examples.

Signal 2: Resumes with Excessive Technical Language or Uniform Style

AI-generated or "enhanced" resumes often have a very homogenous style and may be replete with technical or "corporate" language that doesn't feel natural or lacks real context to support it.

The interviewer should look to see if the content reflects experiences that seem authentic and consistent with the rest of the profile.

Signal 3: Generic Cover Letters

Although their use varies by region, cover letters are a clear indicator.

If the letter is impeccably written, but generic (it does not mention the specific company name, the exact position you are applying for, or specific details of the vacancy), it is highly likely that it has been automatically generated by an AI.

Signal 4: Inconsistencies between Written and Spoken

This is perhaps the most telling signal.

It occurs when there is a noticeable disconnect between the candidate's documents and their verbal performance in the interview.

If the CV and cover letter show an extremely high and sophisticated level of writing, but during the interview the candidate has difficulty articulating their ideas, explaining their own accomplishments clearly, or lacks the eloquence that their documents suggested, it is a strong sign that they used AI to construct their written profile.

Conclusion: AI is not Negative, but Demands Depth

It is important to reiterate that a candidate's use of AI is not inherently negative; in fact, it can help good candidates present themselves better and help re