Trust the process

: analysing the effects of AI-based recruitment processes on the perception of divers jobseekers

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the impact of AI-assisted recruitment processes on candidates' job preferences and perceived fairness, focusing on individuals prone to discrimination due to non-native appearances or names. AI technologies promise to reduce biases inherent in human-led recruitment processes, which often result in discriminatory practices based on ethnicity, gender, or name origin. Through a web-based survey of 259 participants, this research evaluates the trust candidates place in AI versus human recruiters, their likelihood to apply to companies using AI, and their perception of organizational commitment to diversity. The results show that individuals with non-native names or appearances trust AI-assisted processes more than traditional ones and are more likely to apply to organizations that utilize AI in recruitment processes. These findings highlight AI’s potential to promote fairness and inclusivity in recruitment, however they also call attention to the need for ethical oversight to prevent new forms of bias encoded in AI systems. This research contributes to understanding the role of AI in fostering diversity and offers practical implications for organizations seeking to integrate AI into their hiring practices.

Date of Award	26 Feb 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Francisco Esteves (Supervisor)