Appian CEO says he refuses to use AI to screen résumés

Matt Calkins, the CEO of Appian, has expressed his strong reservations about the use of artificial intelligence in the recruitment process, particularly in screening résumés. Speaking during a recent dinner with journalists, Calkins argued that many organizations are misapplying AI technologies. He emphasized the importance of a human touch in hiring, especially when seeking top-tier talent. Calkins believes that relying on AI for résumé reviews could lead to a superficial selection process, reducing candidates to mere checkboxes. While some major firms like Google and Salesforce have integrated AI to handle the high volume of initial applications, many still depend heavily on recruiters for the crucial task of filtering candidates. This reliance on technology has prompted some job seekers to revert to traditional paper résumés in hopes of standing out. Furthermore, an increasing number of hiring managers are opting for in-person interviews to foster more meaningful connections with candidates. Calkins voiced his concern that an over-reliance on AI could result in the loss of exceptional candidates. He underscored that Appian, founded in 1999, aims to recognize the unique qualities in applicants that are often overlooked when using automated tools. "We were supposed to be better than that," he remarked, questioning the effectiveness of AI in identifying potential based solely on academic performance. His critique extends beyond hiring practices. Calkins referenced a study from MIT indicating that a staggering 95% of companies have yet to see tangible benefits from their investments in generative AI. He lamented the poor deployment of what he calls "the technology of the century," attributing this to a widespread lack of understanding about how to effectively integrate AI into business operations. According to Calkins, AI should be utilized to tackle significant challenges within large organizations, such as managing the overwhelming influx of communications they receive daily. He noted that companies often contend with a chaotic mix of paper documents, faxes, emails, texts, and phone calls on various topics. Appian has successfully developed AI solutions that can process diverse forms of communication, achieving a remarkable 99% accuracy in routing and uploading information to the appropriate databases. While he acknowledges the potential of these technologies, Calkins also recognizes the public's limited awareness of their practical applications, suggesting that many are distracted by less meaningful uses of AI.