The Watercooler

Five Tips for Conducting Better Video Interviews

better video interviews

Video interviews are the new standard for interviewing job candidates. A recent report showed that among talent acquisition teams:

  • 84% are accommodating remote processes and candidates.
  • 61% use video when screening candidates.
  • 80% use video as part of the interview process.

And video interviews are more than just a trend. Even when social distancing is finally relaxed (at some point in the future), it’s highly likely that businesses will continue remote interviewing to add a layer of protection and save time and access talent from other geographic locations.

As with most aspects of hiring, the right tools, training, and preparation are essential to video interview success. If your team is conducting job interviews remotely, here’s how to consistently execute high-quality video interviews that bring you one step closer to hiring the ideal candidate:

1. Invest in reliable software.

Poor sound and audio quality can undermine your conversations. You need reliable technology that’s simple to use for both you and your candidates. Whichever platform you choose, make sure everyone on your team is trained on using features like screen sharing. And consider investing in a paid version of your software to access important features like unlimited meeting length.

2. Overcommunicate with candidates.

An ounce of prevention helps candidates relax and focus on the interview while also creating a favorable impression of your organization:

    • Send candidates a link to their interview several days prior so that they have time to test that link and the quality of their internet connection.
    • Explain minimum requirements for computer processing and internet speed, so candidates can plan accordingly.
    • Include a list of video interview success tips, so candidates know if you expect them to share their screen or prepare additional documents in advance.
    • Confirm the interview time 24 hours before.

3. Break the ice.

Even if you’re comfortable with online meetings, video interactions are still awkward for many people. Spend a few extra minutes, breaking the ice and easing into the conversation to help you both relax. In addition to the typical ice-breaker pleasantries, explain what your interviewee should do if your connection drops or if they experience other technical issues.

4. Follow a structured process.

Don’t let the change in format derail your interview process; follow the structure proven effective for your in-person interviews. Ask your usual questions and, if interviewing with other members of your team, make sure everyone understands who is taking the lead, so you don’t talk over one another.

5. Evaluate candidates on what matters most to job success.

Right now, it may be hard for a great candidate to find a silent and distraction-free environment in which to interview. Resist the urge to judge them based on factors outside their control (e.g., a neighbor’s noisy lawnmower, a dropped internet connection). As long as you can see and hear your interviewee clearly, be flexible, and focus on the substance of their answers, not what’s going on around them.

Need great people? We can help.

As social distancing continues, PrideStaff is using video interviews and our proprietary engagement platform, PrideStaff Connect, to accelerate placements, improve assignment completion rates, and increase your ROI. Whether you need last-minute temporary help or are growing your core team, your local PrideStaff office is equipped to deliver great results.