Andy Burnham gives jobs AI and interview 'not right to me' update

Andy Burnham said employers should reconsider reliance on virtual job interviews, arguing the format may prevent young people from “shining” during hiring. Speaking on the Jimmy’s Jobs of the Future podcast with former adviser Jimmy McLoughlin, Burnham criticized a culture of interviews via Zoom or Teams, saying it can favor candidates who provide more “formulaic” answers over those showing personality and passion. He also questioned the growing use of AI tools to screen candidates, especially for applicants without existing connections. Burnham described a new government AI ministerial role and proposed boosting “social value” in public contracts, including more 45-day placements for 16- to 18-year-olds.