Speaking to former political consultant Jimmy McLaughlin on his podcast Jimmy Jobs of the Future, Burnham said he is concerned that the use of technology is not making recruitment processes “fair”.
“How can you overcome your personality, your passions?” he asked, referring to virtual interviews. “I feel like that should work against people who have that side to their character and work for people who are just giving more formulaic answers.
“I’m concerned about it and I’ve seen it in relation to my children and their situation.”
Responding to Burham’s comments, industry body Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) said online interviews were useful, especially in earlier recruitment stages, but could not replace important personal connections.
Maxine Blee, chief membership and innovation officer at REC, said: “AI tools are helpful, even essential, when dealing with large volumes of applications, but it requires skill and professionalism to make the right call.
“The key message from us to recruiters is to be digital where it matters and human where it matters.”
Elizabeth Anderson, chief executive of the Digital Poverty Alliance, said online interviews allow people who don’t live in cities to access opportunities.
“Forcing young people to travel to London and other major cities or be restricted to local roles, which are often in short supply, does not support aspiration or opportunity within the UK,” he said.
“AI is the big issue. AI in job interviews and CV sorting is unfair to the youth due to its inherent bias and most of the school leavers are unaware of how to write to get shortlisted by the AI recruitment tools that do the sorting.”
Official figures show that more than one million 16-25-year-olds are not in education, employment or training – the highest level in more than 12 years.
A major review by former minister Alan Milburn found that job and career opportunities for young people “are not increasing, they are decreasing” and that one in six could be out of work, education or training within five years if action is not taken.
Milburn warned in May that “there is a risk of a lost generation” with young adults facing a “perfect storm” of challenges.
