In a world where artificial intelligence is changing how we work, think, and communicate, it’s no surprise that its influence has started to reshape one of the most critical parts of the hiring process: the interview.
AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Google Gemini are being used to automate research, improve communication, and streamline problem-solving. So, it begs the question: if you’re interviewing for a role that involves modern, tech-savvy thinking, should you be using AI to help you prepare? And more importantly — would a hiring manager be unimpressed if you didn’t?
The short answer? Possibly.
Let’s unpack this idea.
The New Normal: AI Isn’t Optional in Many Roles
For roles in marketing, finance, operations, procurement, tech, and many other sectors, AI is no longer a “nice to have” — it’s quickly becoming business-critical. Whether it’s summarising data, automating manual tasks, or speeding up report writing, AI is fundamentally changing how people work.
So, if you’re interviewing for a position where using AI is expected day-to-day, not using AI in your prep might raise a few eyebrows. Why wouldn’t you use a tool that’s widely accessible and proven to improve productivity?
Put yourself in the hiring manager’s shoes: if you’re recruiting someone to drive innovation, improve efficiency, or be forward-thinking — and they’re not taking advantage of the most game-changing tools available — that sends a message.
What It Says About You If You Don’t Use AI
Not using AI in an interview doesn’t make you a bad candidate. But in certain industries or roles, it might suggest a lack of curiosity, initiative, or awareness.
Here’s what not using AI could signal (rightly or wrongly):
- You’re not staying current with technology trends
- You may be resistant to change
- You’re not thinking about how to work smarter
- You’re missing an opportunity to stand out
Of course, that’s not always the case. But the assumption might be there — especially if other candidates are leveraging AI to fine-tune their responses, practice common interview questions, or research the company more deeply.
How Top Candidates Are Using AI in Their Interview Prep
Candidates who want to stay ahead of the curve are already using AI tools in the following ways:
- Practising behavioural questions: Asking ChatGPT to simulate a hiring manager and run mock interview questions.
- Refining STAR stories: Getting help tightening up Situation-Task-Action-Result answers for clarity and impact.
- Researching the company: Using AI to summarise recent news, analyse competitors, or review key insights from investor reports or blogs.
- Generating smart questions: Asking for tailored questions to ask at the end of an interview based on the role, company, and industry trends.
- Tone-checking and language improvement: Using tools to improve the way they express themselves, particularly for non-native speakers.
It’s not about cheating. It’s about being resourceful. And in most cases, that’s exactly what employers are looking for.
It’s Not Just About Tech, It’s About Mindset
At its core, using AI in interview prep shows you have a growth mindset. You’re curious. You’re exploring new tools to improve how you operate. You want to do better, faster. And for hiring managers, that’s gold.
Think about it: in today’s workplace, it’s not enough to just be good at your job, you need to be adaptable, efficient, and open to innovation. Using AI during the interview process is just one (very visible) way to show that you’re wired that way.
Should You Mention That You Used AI?
Absolutely, if it adds value to the conversation. You might say something like:
“In preparation for this interview, I used a few AI tools to help sharpen how I explained certain examples and to make sure I was really clear on the company’s recent market activity. It’s a habit I’ve developed in my day-to-day work, using AI to help me be quicker and more insightful.”
That kind of comment shows humility, self-awareness, and tech-savviness all in one go.
Of course, don’t rely solely on AI or read off a script. But weaving it into your narrative can reinforce that you’re proactive and forward-thinking.
Final Thought: AI Won’t Replace You, But Someone Using It Might
“AI won’t take your job, but someone using AI might.”
The same applies to interviews. If you’re up against candidates who are using every tool at their disposal to prepare ,and you’re not, you could be giving them an unnecessary advantage.
In 2025 and beyond, showing your ability to work with AI rather than avoid it is quickly becoming a sign of modern competence. For hiring managers, that could be the difference between a “maybe” and a “yes.”
Would a hiring manager be put off if you didn’t use AI in an interview?
Maybe, especially if the role requires digital awareness, innovation, or efficiency.
Using AI isn’t cheating, it’s smart preparation. It shows you’re resourceful, current and ready to bring modern thinking into your next role.
So if you’re not already doing it, start. Because in today’s job market, it’s not just what you say, it’s how you prepare that shows what you’re truly capable of.
