Change is happening faster than ever. As technology is improving each day, the hiring process is becoming more technologically advanced and more organizations are using video conferencing interviews to carry out the initial selection process of prospective candidates.
“If you can’t relax during your interview, then nothing you do to prepare will matter. Being yourself is essential to the selection process, and interviewers will feel it if you’re too nervous. Showing fear or anxiety appears weak compared to a relaxed smile and genuine confidence.”
– Travis Bradberry
Video job interviews are an increasingly common part of the hiring process. Video interviews are an increasingly popular tool in talent acquisition. There are two main types of video interviews:
- One-way Video Interview: Pre-recorded video submitted by the candidate to the employer.
- Two-way Video Interview: Live video interview in which the employer and the candidate connect face-to-face through a webcam.
Video interviewing is similar to a face-to-face interview and it is an ideal way to find the right people to invite in for a face-to-face interview. The key to a successful video interview is to practice beforehand to avoid technical problems and feel confident with the process. Here are some tips on how to prepare for a video interview.
Double-check your Audio, Video, and Internet Connection
Always test your video and audio right before an interview to ensure everything is working properly. A stable connection is also essential, be sure to choose a location where you know spotty connection won’t disrupt your video.
Pick a Distraction-Free Background
During your test run, take a look at the background that shows up in the video. Plan to have your background tidy, eliminate anything that could draw the interviewer’s attention away from you. A plain wall is ideal, or an office-like setting.
Make sure you’re in a well-lit room and the interviewer can see you
Pay attention to the lighting. The interviewer should be able to see your face clearly.
Angle and Eye Contact are Critical
Always position your camera at eye-level.
Frame yourself from the chest up
Showing yourself from the waist or chest up is generally recommended for video interviews. The top of your head down to your shoulders is the focal point because all your communication is going to be coming from your face, your emotion, your expression, your smiling and that’s what’s going to get you the job.
Dress for the job you want
Dress professionally, wearing the same interview attire you would for an in-person interview. Choose clothing colors that complement your skin tone, and make sure your clothing melds well with the background.
Keep your Body Language Open
Body language is as important in communication as the spoken word. If the body language doesn’t complement the speech, the message can be lost.
Think of it as a Show
Think about the video interview as a one-man studio shows.
A video interview uses online video technology to allow job seekers and hiring professionals to connect earlier in the hiring process. Video interview platforms are designed specifically for the interview process. They are especially useful during the initial stages of screening candidates, saving valuable time and resources and streamlining the hiring process.
Here are 5 Pros and Cons of Video Interviews for Recruiting.
Pros of Video Interviews:
Lower Cost
The employee saves money since they don’t have to reserve a venue where they will interview their candidates. Both parties can go back to their regular activities as soon as they are done with the interview.
Saving Time
For every job opening, there will be dozens of applicants, which is great, because it allows a recruiter to select the best candidate for the role. Video interviews, recruiters can always go back and watch the interview again to make sure that they select the best candidate for the job.
Screening Remote Candidates
A video interview is the best perfect medium for candidates to show off their abilities. Every potential candidate can demonstrate their knowledge and skills right on the spot.
Assess Communication Skills
Body Language and the ability to communicate is one of the tops of the list of most desirable traits. The organization captures the essence of every candidate.
Less Pressure on Candidates
Many candidates are eliminated early because they were too nervous during the interview. With a video interview, candidates can relax, while answering all the questions at their own pace.
Cons of Video Interviews:
Internet Connection issues
The major downside to video interviews is dependent on a stable and fast internet connection. It can cause insufficient quality of services, frequent disconnections and poor video, and audio quality. With such technical issues, it will affect the candidates’ chances of getting hired.
Poor Video Quality
Poor video quality reduces the candidate’s chances of getting hired because their presentation wasn’t effective as it should be. Recruiters needed candidates who have strong skills, also presentable and charismatic and are capable of representing the organization when needing.
Lack of IT Knowledge
Plenty of job openings don’t require computer knowledge. However, having such knowledge is necessary if the candidates are being screened via video interviews.
Response Time Limitation
In a video interview, candidates are usually given a limited amount of time which can make the whole process very stressful.
Potential Fraud
It is not too common that some companies try or scam candidates, in exchange for getting hired which misleads the candidates and wastes their time.
With any new advancement made available to hiring managers and HR specialists, a corresponding assessment of their place in the candidate selection process must take place. All techniques and technologies must adhere to the unique staffing goals, appropriateness and fit of the company; adapted because they make sense for your company, not merely because they exist.
“Your positive action combined with positive thinking results in success.”
– Shiv Krera
A video interview provides candidates with a way of expressing themselves with more authenticity that can be achieved through a phone interview. Both recruiters and candidates need to be aware of what they need to do on their end so that everything runs smoothly. Only then can video interviews serve as a valuable tool for both sides. With a video interview, every candidate has the chance to be a star.
