Consulting giant McKinsey has introduced an innovative twist to its interview process, pitting entry-level candidates against a simulated AI client. The 10-minute conversation is designed to mimic typical client interactions, covering 80% of scenarios a McKinsey consultant might face. While the AI won’t score candidates, human assessors will observe and evaluate their performance.

This move by McKinsey is part of a wider trend where companies are incorporating AI avatars in recruitment. Other firms, notably mentioned by a colleague, have also experimented with similar tools. The WSJ reports that hundreds of applicants may use this tool in some North American offices this fall.

The use of AI in interviews suggests a future where technology plays a significant role in the hiring process. While such tools may provide a more standardized assessment, they could also raise concerns about the authenticity of the experience and the nuances of human interaction that might be lost.

For McKinsey, the hope is that this approach will better prepare candidates for real-world scenarios and assess their ability to handle unexpected challenges. However, it remains to be seen whether job seekers will welcome such a tech-driven method or find it intimidating.