CIO Corner – The Risk and Reward of AI in Hiring

Dallan Elk offers a candid perspective on AI in hiring: “The risks around AI for hiring are deeply concerning. The ability for a candidate to answer questions as if they have the knowledge, even when they don’t, is a real concern. For highly skilled positions, in-person interviews are almost essential.”

Elk’s warning reflects a growing challenge for organizations. As AI tools become more complex, traditional methods of assessing candidate skills, such as remote tests, phone interviews, and even some virtual assessments, can be insufficient. For critical roles where expertise and judgment are non-negotiable, companies are increasingly relying on face-to-face evaluation to ensure they are truly selecting the right talent. 

However, AI also brings undeniable benefits. As Elk notes, “Once you get past that, the value of AI is incredible. It can accelerate IT onboarding and even help identify employees at risk, allowing proactive intervention to prevent attrition.”

In many industries, especially those struggling with labor shortages or high turnover, AI is helping organizations act before small issues become big problems. AI is reshaping what’s possible in talent management, from speeding up productivity for new hires to providing insight into workforce patterns. 

The key takeaway for CIOs is balance. AI is not a threat to human judgment; it’s a tool. Leveraging it wisely requires understanding both its limitations in candidate assessment and its potential to enhance onboarding, productivity, and retention. Those who can navigate these dual realities will unlock the greatest strategic value.