Companies developing AI hiring ethics rules
CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES — Major corporations including Microsoft, Amazon, Unilever, and Koch Industries have collaborated to establish principles and protocols for ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) in recruitment.
According to the 2023 Hiring Benchmark Report from software and talent success company Criteria, only 12% of hiring professionals currently use AI, however adoption is accelerating for tasks like sourcing and screening candidates.
Criteria CEO Josh Millet cautioned against potential bias from AI hiring and urged transparency.
“We could almost not do any worse. Yes, we should be careful, deliberate, and measured about implementing [AI] systems,” Millet said.
A 2021 study from the National Bureau of Economic Research showed distinctively Black names reduce employer contact. Some firms have faced lawsuits over alleged AI discrimination.
The Center for Industry Self-Regulation published principles on AI hiring fairness, non-discrimination, robustness, and accountability. Protocols were introduced for certifying third-party AI vendors.
AI assists with job descriptions, sourcing, assessments, screening, communication, and training. Properly implemented tools can mitigate bias, but employers must ensure valid, reliable systems even when using vendors.
