The New Interview Playbook
In India's fiercely competitive job market, standing out is everything. Fresh graduates, armed with new degrees but often little formal interview experience, are turning to artificial intelligence to gain an edge. The practice of using ChatGPT for interview prep
is rapidly moving from a niche hack to a mainstream strategy. Candidates are using it to decode complex job descriptions, anticipate likely questions, and even draft initial answers. The appeal is obvious: it’s a 24/7, on-demand coach that offers a sense of control in a process that often feels overwhelming. For many, it's about levelling the playing field and calming nerves by being as prepared as possible.
Your AI-Powered Mock Interviewer
One of the most powerful uses of ChatGPT is simulating live interviews. A graduate can prompt the AI to act as a hiring manager for a specific role and company, then engage in a practice session. For example, a prompt like, "Act as a recruiter from a top IT services firm interviewing me for a software developer role. Ask me five behavioural questions and three technical questions," can kickstart a tailored practice session. The AI can then be asked to provide instant, brutally honest feedback on the candidate's answers, focusing on clarity, structure, and use of the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). This allows for endless, iterative practice without the fear of judgment, building the muscle memory needed for a real interview.
Beyond Just Answering Questions
The utility of AI in job prep extends far beyond simple Q&A. Graduates are using it to refine resumes and cover letters, ensuring they are optimised for both human recruiters and automated Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). They're prompting ChatGPT to analyse job descriptions and suggest key skills to highlight. Some even use it for deeper company research, asking it to summarise a company's recent achievements, cultural values based on its website, or formulate insightful questions to ask the interviewer at the end of the meeting. This moves the preparation from reactive (answering questions) to proactive (strategic positioning).
What Do Recruiters Think?
The view from the other side of the table is mixed but evolving. Most recruiters agree that preparation is a good thing; using AI to research a company or practice common questions is seen as resourceful. However, there is a clear line. Reading AI-generated answers verbatim during an interview is a major red flag. Recruiters report that it's often obvious when a candidate is doing this, as the language can sound robotic and detached, lacking personal experience and genuine emotion. While some HR professionals see the use of AI on applications as a dealbreaker, others view it as an inevitable part of modern work, even testing candidates on their ability to use AI effectively. The consensus seems to be: use AI as a tool, not a script.
The Authenticity Advantage
The biggest risk of over-relying on ChatGPT is losing your unique voice. An interview is not just about giving the 'correct' answer; it's about showcasing your personality, demonstrating your thought process, and making a human connection. AI-generated content, by its nature, can be generic and lack the personal stories and specific examples that make a candidate memorable. Relying too heavily on it can result in a candidate who sounds polished but has no personality. The goal should be to use the tool to structure your thoughts and build confidence, not to replace your own thinking. Your experiences, your perspective, and your enthusiasm are your greatest assets, and no AI can replicate those.
