How to ace AI virtual interviews with Employment Hero’s Recruitment Agent

The job interview has changed. The days of rushing across town for a 30-minute chat are fading. In their place is a new kind of screening: the AI-powered virtual interview. For many, the idea of talking to a camera instead of a person feels strange, even intimidating. But what if this change wasn’t a barrier, but a breakthrough?

AI interviews are levelling the playing field, giving every candidate a fair and equal chance to prove their worth. Forget about biased first impressions or the stress of scheduling conflicts. This is about giving you the stage to show what you can do, on your terms.

We’re introducing the Recruitment Agent, an AI-powered colleague that helps companies conduct their first-round interviews. It’s designed to be fair, consistent and transparent. Understanding how it works is your key to not just participating, but excelling. This guide will show you how to master the virtual interview and turn technology into your greatest career advantage.

What is an AI-powered virtual interview?

An AI-powered interview, like the one managed by our Recruitment Agent, is a structured, recorded video interview. Instead of a live conversation, you’ll be presented with a series of pre-set questions on your screen and you’ll record your answers one by one.

It’s not a secret test designed to catch you out. It’s the opposite. It’s a system built to remove inconsistency and unconscious bias from the hiring process. Every applicant for a role answers the exact same questions and is evaluated against the exact same criteria. Your success depends on the substance of your answers, not on how well you clicked with the interviewer on the day.

For candidates, this means:

• A fair shot: Your skills and experience are measured on a level playing field.
• Total flexibility: You can record the interview when and where it suits you, within a set timeframe (usually seven days). No more juggling work or personal commitments.
• Complete transparency: You know exactly what’s being asked and can prepare accordingly. No surprise questions or trickery.

This process gives you the power to present the best version of yourself, free from the pressure of a traditional face-to-face meeting.

How to prepare for your AI interview

Preparation is everything. Just because you’re not meeting someone in person doesn’t mean you can just wing it. Use the flexibility of the process to your advantage and get ready to shine.

1. Understand the technology and setup

First, get your technical setup right. A poor connection or bad lighting can distract from your brilliant answers.

• Check your gear: Test your webcam and microphone beforehand. Make sure you’re happy with the video and audio quality.
• Find your space: Choose a quiet, well-lit location where you won’t be interrupted. A neutral background is best—a blank wall is better than a messy room. 
• Master your framing: Position the camera at eye level. Sit straight and look directly into the camera lens when you speak, not at your own image on the screen. This creates a direct and engaging connection.

2. Decode the job description

The questions you’ll be asked aren’t random. The AI generates them based on the job description. This is your cheat sheet. Break down the role into key skills, responsibilities and company values. Your answers should directly connect your experience to these points.

The Recruitment Agent typically asks a mix of four question types. Prepare examples for each:

• Motivational: “Why do you want this job?” They want to see genuine enthusiasm and alignment with their mission.
• Behavioural: “Tell me about a time when you faced a difficult challenge.” Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answer.
• Situational: “How would you handle an unhappy customer?” They’re testing your problem-solving skills and judgment.
• Role-specific: “What experience do you have with [specific software/skill]?” Be direct and provide clear evidence of your expertise.

3. Practice, don’t memorise

Record yourself answering practice questions. You can use your phone or computer. Watch it back and ask yourself:

• Am I speaking clearly and at a good pace?
• Is my body language confident and open?
• Am I looking at the camera?
• Is my answer concise and directly addressing the question?

The goal isn’t to create a perfect script. That will sound robotic. The goal is to get comfortable with the format so your natural confidence and personality can come through.

Nailing the interview: Tips for recording day

When it’s time to record, you’ve done the hard work. Now it’s about execution.

Speak with clarity and confidence

The AI will transcribe your words, so clear articulation is vital. Speak at a measured pace, not too fast, not too slow. Use pauses to add emphasis and enunciate your words. Your tone matters, too. Let your passion for the role come through. Show energy and enthusiasm.

Structure your answers for impact

Don’t ramble, make sure you’re providing direct and helpful answers. The best answers are clear, structured and to the point. The STAR method is your best friend for behavioural questions.

• Situation: Briefly describe the context. (e.g., “In my previous role as a project coordinator…”)
• Task: Explain what you needed to achieve. (e.g., “…my task was to resolve a budget shortfall.”)
• Action: Detail the specific steps you took. (e.g., “I initiated a full audit of expenses and renegotiated with two key suppliers.”)
• Result: Outline the positive outcome. (e.g., “As a result, we came in 10% under budget and the project was delivered on time.”)

This framework provides concrete evidence of your abilities, which is exactly what hiring managers want to see.

Let your personality shine

An AI interview isn’t a robot test. The hiring manager will still watch your videos. They want to see who you are. Smile, use natural hand gestures and let your personality come through. This is your chance to show them why you’d be a great addition to their team culture. 

When you’re ready for a virtual interview with the hiring manager, we’ve got you covered with our 13 Virtual Interview Tips.

Embrace the future of hiring

The recruitment landscape is evolving, and technology is breaking down old barriers. AI-powered interviews are designed to make the process fairer, more efficient and more respectful of your time. By giving every candidate an equal opportunity to be heard, they empower you to compete on merit alone.

This isn’t just another hoop to jump through. It’s an opportunity to take control of your narrative and present your skills with clarity and confidence. Stop fearing the new and start using it to your advantage. Prepare, practice and show them what you’ve got.

Ready to find your next role? Embrace the power of AI and discover a better way to get hired.