The new rules of job interviews: How to succeed in AI assessments in South Africa

As a recruitment agency, we know the South African job market is evolving at lightning speed and so are the tools employers use to find the right talent. In an age where artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping nearly every industry, it’s no surprise that job interviews are also going digital.  Today, many companies, both large and small, are turning to AI-powered interviews to screen candidates faster, more efficiently and with fewer human biases.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned professional or transitioning careers, chances are your next interview could be with a machine. But here’s the good news: succeeding in an AI-driven interview doesn’t require advanced tech skills or nerves of steel. It just takes the right preparation. In this blog, we’ll break down what AI interviews look like in South Africa, explain how they work, and most importantly, show you how to master them with confidence

What are AI-powered job interviews?

AI-powered interviews vary, but most fall into one of the following categories:

1. One-way video interviews

You’ll record answers to a set of predetermined questions. These recordings are then analyzed by AI software, which may assess speech, facial expressions, tone and even word choice.

2. Virtual assessments

These may include cognitive tests, problem-solving scenarios or simulated job tasks, all scored automatically.

3. Chatbot interviews

Conversational bots ask questions and collect your responses in real time, often acting as a pre-screening tool.

How to prepare for an AI-powered interview in South Africa

If your next job interview is with a computer instead of a person, don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds. In fact, with a few simple strategies, you can present yourself professionally and confidently, even in a digital format.

Below are six detailed and practical steps to help South African jobseekers shine in AI-driven interviews. 

1. Understand the interview platform and test your technology

AI interviews usually happen on specific platforms such as HireVue or Modern Hire. These are tools used by South African companies to screen candidates using automated processes.

Here’s what to do:

• Research the platform

Visit the company’s website or search online for how that particular platform works. Look for demo videos or tutorials.

• Check your equipment

• Internet connection: Make sure your Wi-Fi or mobile data is stable. Avoid public connections that may cut out.
• Camera and microphone: Use a laptop or phone with a working camera and mic. Test them beforehand.
• Lighting and background: Sit in a quiet, clean space with good lighting. Face a window or light source so your face is clearly visible. Avoid busy or cluttered backgrounds.

• Dress professionally

Even though it’s a virtual interview, you should dress like you’re going to an office. Choose neat, clean clothing that fits the job you’re applying for.

• Do a practice run

Some platforms offer practice questions, use them! If not, ask a friend to record a mock interview so you can see how you appear on screen.

Technical issues or poor visual/audio quality can distract the AI or even result in a lower evaluation score.

2. Practice speaking confidently to the camera

Unlike speaking to a person, AI interviews require you to look directly at your device’s camera lens, not the screen. This makes it seem like you’re making eye contact, which the system scores positively.

Here’s how to practice:

Use your phone or laptop camera to simulate the interview environment.

Record yourself answering common interview questions, such as:

• “Tell me about yourself.”
• “Why do you want this job?”
• “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”

Watch your videos and assess:

• Are you speaking too fast or too slowly?
• Are you mumbling or using filler words like “um” or “you know”?
• Are you maintaining eye contact and sitting up straight?

Body language tips

• Sit with your shoulders back and head up.
• Smile when appropriate.
• Avoid crossing your arms or slouching.
• Keep hand gestures minimal and controlled.

AI tracks your tone, body language and verbal confidence. Practicing beforehand will make you feel more at ease and appear more professional.

3. Tailor your answers with job-specific keywords

AI systems are trained to pick up on certain keywords related to the job role. These keywords often come straight from the job advert.

How to use them

• Review the job listing and highlight key responsibilities or required skills (e.g., “problem-solving,” “customer service,” “team leadership”).
• Incorporate those exact words into your answers, where it makes sense.
• Don’t force the words in rather speak naturally, but with intention.

Example

• Job Ad Says: “Must demonstrate excellent customer service skills.”
• Your Answer: “In my previous role, I focused on delivering exceptional customer service by handling client queries promptly and ensuring their satisfaction.”

The AI algorithm may rank you higher if it detects the same language the employer used in the job description.

4. Organize your responses using the STAR method

The STAR method is a powerful way to structure your answers to behavioral questions.

Breakdown:

• S – Situation: Describe the context or background of the example.
• T – Task: Explain what your responsibility or goal was.
• A – Action: Detail the steps you took to address the challenge.
• R – Result: Share the outcome or success of your efforts.

Example answer:

Question: “Tell me about a time you resolved a conflict at work.”

Answer using STAR:

• Situation: “At my last job, two team members were in disagreement over shift schedules.”
• Task: “As the team leader, I was responsible for maintaining harmony and productivity.”
• Action: “I arranged a private meeting with both staff, listened to their concerns and restructured the schedule to accommodate both.”
• Result: “The issue was resolved peacefully and team morale improved.”

AI programs and human reviewers can easily follow structured responses, which helps them assess your problem-solving and communication skills.

5. Be genuine and don’t try to outsmart the AI

It may be tempting to use scripts or even AI tools like ChatGPT to write your answers in advance, but don’t. AI interviews are designed to pick up on overly scripted or robotic responses.

Instead

• Speak from your own experiences.
• Answer questions honestly, even if your experience is limited.
• Show personality, within reason and be yourself.

Employers still value authenticity. AI is just a tool to screen candidates, it’s not the final decision-maker. You’ll likely move on to a human interview and inconsistencies can hurt your chances.

6. Don’t stress—Some AI interviews allow retakes

A big plus of AI interviews is that you may get a second chance if you mess up a question.

What to remember

• Read the instructions carefully. Some platforms offer:

• A chance to re-record your answer once or twice.
• A time limit per question.
• No second attempts at all (in rare cases).
• If you do get to redo a question, don’t aim for perfection. Focus on clarity, confidence, and relevance.
• Take a deep breath before each question and pause to collect your thoughts.

A calm and collected response will score better than a rushed or nervous one. Practice builds confidence!

Embrace the digital shift and take control of your interview success

AI-powered interviews are no longer the future, they’re happening now, and they’re here to stay. As South Africa continues to embrace digital transformation across industries, jobseekers must be ready to adapt and succeed in this new environment. The key isn’t to fear the technology but to understand it, prepare for it and use it to your advantage.

By following the above strategies you can stand out, even in front of a machine. These new rules might feel unfamiliar at first, but with the right mindset and strategies, they can become stepping stones toward your next career opportunity.

At MASA, we’re committed to helping South African jobseekers navigate every step of the modern recruitment process. Our team understands the evolving hiring landscape and offers the support you need to thrive.