Video job interviews have become a standard part of the hiring process. They offer convenience and flexibility, allowing both employers and candidates to connect from anywhere in the world. However, the success of a video job interview largely depends on when and how it's conducted. Optimal timing and techniques will make your video job interviews run as smoothly as possible.
Here’s when and how to conduct video job interviews.
Pre-Screening
Use video interviews in the initial stages of the hiring process to pre-screen candidates efficiently. This helps you identify the most promising candidates early on and avoids wasting yours and the candidate’s time if they’re definitely not the right fit for the role.
Geographical Constraints
When candidates are located in different cities or countries, video interviews are the ideal solution to bridge geographical gaps. If your organisation employs remote workers, then video interviews will probably be the norm in your hiring process.
Scheduling Convenience
Video interviews offer flexibility for candidates who are currently employed. Conducting interviews during evenings or weekends accommodates those who aren’t able to get time off from their current job to attend interviews.
International Hiring
When recruiting talent globally, video interviews enable you to evaluate candidates without the logistical challenges and costs of international travel. Although candidates may be willing to relocate for a role, they may not be able to justify taking time off to travel across the country for a job interview
How to Conduct Video Job Interviews Effectively
Choose the Right Platform
Select a reliable video conferencing platform like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Skype to conduct your job interview and ensure candidates are comfortable with the chosen platform. It’s also important that you provide the candidate with clear instructions and the details they need to join the call.
Test Technology in Advance
To prevent technical glitches, have candidates test their equipment, including cameras, microphones, and internet connections, well before the interview. It’s always good to join the call a few minutes early so you have the time to test your own equipment too.
Create a Professional Setting
When arranging the interview, remind the candidate to take the call in a quiet, well-lit space with a clutter-free background. If you’re the hiring manager conducting the interview, make sure you take the call in a quiet space or meeting room to minimise distractions. Despite the call being virtual, both parties should dress professionally, just as you would for an in-person interview.
Maintain Eye Contact
Throughout the interview, ensure that you maintain eye contact with the candidate and avoid looking at your own image on the screen. Simulating eye contact helps to establish a connection, which is more difficult to do virtually.
Structured Questions
Prepare a list of structured interview questions that assess the candidate’s skills, experience, and cultural fit. Stick to the same set of questions for all candidates to maintain consistency while also making the conversations flow naturally like it would in face-to-face interviews.
By mastering the timing and techniques of video job interviews, you can streamline your hiring process, connect with top talent, and make confident, data-driven hiring decisions. Embrace the power of technology to find the best candidates for your organisation while ensuring a smooth and professional interview experience. If you’re new to conducting video interviews, remember that you can incorporate them into your hiring process to supplement face-to-face interviews, not replace them.
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