Conscientiousness cues in AVIs: how cues interact

Abstract

The rise of virtual interviewing technology, notably Asynchronous Video Interviews (AVIs), has transformed personnel selection practices worldwide due to their cost and time efficiencies. Yet, research on potential biases in AVIs, particularly concerning contradictory cues impacting perceived applicant personality, remains scarce. I conducted a 2x2x2 design (messiness) x (professional dress) x (job type) to examine the possible buffering effect messiness has on the perception of professional dress, the heightened importance of conscientiousness-related cues when selecting canidates for certain jobs and these conscientiousness-related cues’s biasing effects on perceived conscientiousness and final interview outcomes. Results reveal environmental cleanliness significantly affects perceived conscientiousness and hireability, with tidier settings favoring candidates. Additionally, technical role applicants are perceived as more conscientious than those in client-facing positions. Notably, candidates in client-facing roles with formal attire and messy backgrounds received lower scores, emphasizing the importance of recording in tidy environments or utilizing background filters for fairness in hiring processes.