"Dear Applicant, the AI Will See you Now!" Job Applicants' Reactions to AI-Enhanced Selection

As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes hiring, organizations increasingly rely on AI-enhanced selection methods such as chatbot-led interviews and algorithmic resume screening. While AI offers efficiency and scalability, concerns persist regarding fairness, transparency, and trust. This qualitative study applies the Artificially Intelligent Device Use Acceptance (AIDUA) model to examine how job applicants perceive and respond to AI-driven hiring. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with 15 professionals, the study explores how social influence, anthropomorphism, and performance expectancy shape applicant acceptance, while concerns about transparency and fairness emerge as key barriers. Participants expressed a strong preference for hybrid AI-human hiring models, emphasizing the importance of explainability and human oversight. The study refines the AIDUA model in the recruitment context and offers practical recommendations for organizations seeking to implement AI ethically and effectively in selection processes.