5 Best Video Interview Practices for Employers

Video interviews have become one of the most accepted forms of assessing potential employees. However, given that video interviews are not the same with face to face or phone interviews, here are a few guidelines to help you effectively use the video interview technique.

1. Let your candidate know what to expect

A lot of candidates are not familiar with video interviews especially those who have not been in the labour market in a long time. It can, therefore, be necessary to send along instructions to potential candidates on how best to operate the system. Your instruction should also suggest that candidates log into the system ahead of time to test and make sure that everything is working fine. If there are any special requirements the candidates are to present, let them know in advance so that they will not be caught unawares.

2. Prepare your questions

The beauty of video interview is that all candidates follow the same process and get to answer the same questions. It is, however, necessary that you prepare the questions that are relevant to the specific job role. The questions should be such that they allow the candidates to communicate what excites them about the job, why they want to work for your organization and how they intend to add value to your company.

3. Use the right technology

There are lots of video streaming options on the internet, but when it comes to video interviews, you need something that can seamlessly integrate with your existing setup. Look for and use a platform that will provide an easy experience for you and your applicants. It may be necessary to invest in a platform that makes it possible to effectively assess candidates. The returns on investment are well worth the cost.

4. Keep copies of the session

You may need to review the interview session later to compare several choices and make an informed decision. In most cases, you may need to ask candidate’s permission to record the video interview session for future use. Of course, you will take notes during the video session, but a recording can jog a particular elusive memory during the selection process. Keeping copies of the interview session can also help avoid the need for an additional or follow-up interview.

5. Evaluate reasonably

A lot of candidates are not familiar with video interviews and they are bound to make a couple of mistakes at first. Don’t forget that to some extent, the video interview is still a new trend so you may need to give obvious first-time candidates a break. Some of them may not get the lighting right or use poor video and sound quality.

A few of them may be uncomfortable with the video interview, so it may be necessary to give them the benefit of doubt. You are looking for someone who can meet your company profile and do the job perfectly, so a candidate taking peeps at their note can be creatively overlooked. If they get every other aspect of the interview right and are obviously suitable for the role, then you may need to overlook a few of the technical shortfalls in order to get the candidates that you want.