The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming Talent Acquisition: Efficiency, Bias, and Ethical Challenges

Authors:

Deepak Kumar

MBA (Human Resource Management), Jagannath University, Jaipur

Email: dkv2290@gmail.com

Ms. Abhilasha Singh

Assistant Professor, Jagannath University, Jaipur

Email: abhilasha.singh@jagannathuniversity.org

ABSTRACT

Hiring has always been one of the most demanding and judgment-intensive functions in any organisation. Over the past few years, artificial intelligence has entered this space in a significant way, reshaping how companies find, evaluate, and select candidates. This paper explores how AI is changing talent acquisition from three angles: the efficiency it brings, the biases it can introduce, and the ethical questions it raises. Drawing on published research, industry surveys, and case studies from 2020 to 2025, the study finds that while AI tools have made hiring faster and more cost-effective, they also carry real risks — particularly around fairness, transparency, and candidate experience. Cases from Amazon, Unilever, IBM, and HireVue illustrate both what can go right and what can go wrong. The paper closes with practical recommendations for HR teams looking to adopt AI responsibly.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Talent Acquisition, Algorithmic Bias, Ethical AI, Recruitment Automation, Human Resource Management, Machine Learning, Data Privacy.