Discover the top best practices for video interviews that will help you hire the best candidates for your company. Learn about the best interview questions, video platforms, and tips to conduct successful video interviews.

The Ultimate Guide to Best Practices for Video Interviews

Mastering the Art of Conducting Video Interviews

Introduction

Why Video Interviews are Important

Benefits of Video Interviews

Preparing for Video Interviews

Selecting the Right Video Platform

Equipment and Technical Requirements

Scheduling and Logistics

Conducting the Video Interview

Establishing Rapport

Asking the Right Questions

Evaluating Candidates

Following Up After the Interview

Thank You Notes and Feedback

Moving Forward with the Hiring Process

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Technical Difficulties

Lack of Preparation

Ineffective Communication

Conclusion

Recap of Best Practices

Future of Video Interviews

Best Practices for Video Interviews

Video interviews are becoming increasingly popular in the recruitment process due to their efficiency. Rather than scheduling in-person interviews or coordinating phone calls, video interviews can allow for more flexibility and convenience for both recruiters and candidates.

Efficiency in the recruitment process

Video interviews also offer benefits in terms of candidate evaluation. Recruiters can more easily compare candidates side-by-side, and can also review the interview at a later time to get a better sense of the candidate's strengths and weaknesses.

Improved candidate evaluation

Another important benefit of video interviews is cost savings. By eliminating the need for travel and accommodations for both recruiters and candidates, video interviews can save companies a significant amount of money.

Cost savings

One of the key benefits of video interviews is that they can increase the candidate pool. By allowing for more flexibility and convenience, recruiters can more easily connect with candidates who may not have been able to attend an in-person interview.

Increased candidate pool

Video interviews can also contribute to a better candidate experience. Candidates can be more comfortable in their own environment, and don't have to worry about travel or other logistical issues.

Improved candidate experience

Finally, video interviews can save time for both recruiters and candidates. Rather than scheduling in-person interviews that may take several hours, video interviews can be conducted more efficiently and in a shorter amount of time.

Time savings

Before selecting a video platform for conducting interviews, consider your company's needs. Are you a small business with a limited budget or a larger corporation with more resources? Do you need a platform that integrates with your existing applicant tracking system or one that offers advanced features like AI-powered analytics? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and select the right video platform for your company.

Consider Your Company's Needs

There are many video platforms available for conducting interviews, from popular options like Skype and Zoom to specialized platforms like HireVue and Spark Hire. Take the time to explore different platforms and compare their features, pricing, and user reviews. Look for a platform that is easy to use, reliable, and offers the features you need to conduct successful video interviews.

Explore Different Video Platforms

Once you have selected a video platform, it's important to test it thoroughly before conducting interviews. Make sure you have a stable internet connection and the necessary hardware and software to use the platform. Test the audio and video quality, as well as any special features like screen sharing or virtual backgrounds. This will help ensure that the interviews run smoothly and that you are able to focus on the candidate's responses rather than technical issues.

Test the Platform Before Conducting Interviews

To conduct successful video interviews, you will need a camera and microphone. Most laptops and smartphones have built-in cameras and microphones, but you may want to invest in external equipment for better quality. Look for a high-quality webcam and a microphone that can capture your voice clearly without picking up background noise. A headset with a built-in microphone can also be a good option.

Camera and Microphone

A stable internet connection is essential for conducting video interviews. Make sure you have a reliable internet service provider and that your network is secure. Test your internet speed before conducting interviews to ensure that you have enough bandwidth to support high-quality video and audio.

Internet Connection

In addition to a video platform, you may need to download additional software or applications to conduct successful video interviews. Make sure you have the necessary software installed and that it is up to date. Some platforms may require you to install a plugin or extension to use certain features, so be sure to check the requirements before conducting interviews.

Software and Applications

When scheduling video interviews with candidates, it's important to set clear expectations. Let candidates know the date and time of the interview, the video platform you will be using, and any special instructions they need to follow (such as downloading software or using a specific browser). Provide a contact person and phone number in case of technical difficulties or other issues.

Set Clear Expectations

If you are conducting video interviews with candidates in different time zones, be sure to account for the time difference when scheduling the interview. Use a time zone converter tool to avoid confusion and ensure that both you and the candidate are on the same page regarding the interview time.

Consider Time Zones

Before conducting video interviews, make sure you have a quiet and well-lit space to use as your interview area. Remove any distractions or background noise and ensure that the lighting is sufficient for the camera. Test the audio and video quality in the interview space to ensure that the candidate can see and hear you clearly.

Prepare the Interview Space

Start the interview by introducing yourself and thanking the candidate for taking the time to speak with you. Set the tone for the interview by being friendly and professional.

Introduce yourself and set the tone

Help the candidate feel at ease by creating a comfortable environment for the interview. This could include making small talk before diving into the questions, asking about the candidate's interests or hobbies, or even complimenting their outfit or background.

Create a comfortable environment

Active listening is crucial to establishing rapport with the candidate. Pay attention to their responses and ask follow-up questions to show that you're interested in what they have to say.

Be an active listener

Before the interview, review the job description and make a list of questions that will help you evaluate the candidate's skills and qualifications for the role. Tailor the questions to the specific position you're interviewing for.

Tailor questions to the specific position

Open-ended questions encourage the candidate to provide more detailed responses and can help you get a better sense of their experience and qualifications. Examples include 'Can you tell me about a time when...' or 'How would you handle a situation where...'

Ask open-ended questions

Behavioral interview questions ask the candidate to describe past experiences and how they handled specific situations. This can give you insight into their problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and work style. Examples include 'Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer' or 'Give me an example of a project you managed from start to finish.'

Use behavioral interview questions

During the interview, take detailed notes on the candidate's responses and any follow-up questions you ask. This will help you evaluate candidates more objectively and make informed decisions later on.

Take detailed notes

To evaluate candidates effectively, you need to have a clear understanding of what you're looking for in a candidate. Compare candidates to one another based on their skills, experience, and how well they fit the job requirements.

Compare candidates to one another

In addition to evaluating candidates based on their skills and experience, consider whether they would be a good fit for the company culture. This could include their communication style, work ethic, and attitudes towards teamwork and collaboration.

Consider cultural fit

Sending a thank you note after a video interview is an important step in the hiring process. It not only shows the candidate that you appreciated their time and consideration, but also gives you an opportunity to reiterate your interest in their candidacy and set the tone for future communication.

Importance of Thank You Notes

When writing a thank you note, be sure to personalize it to the candidate and the interview. Mention specific things that were discussed and highlight why you think they would be a good fit for the position. Keep it concise and professional, and be sure to proofread for any errors before hitting send.

Tips for Writing Thank You Notes

In addition to sending a thank you note, it's important to provide feedback to candidates after the interview. Even if the candidate is not selected for the position, constructive feedback can help them improve their interviewing skills and make a positive impression of your company. Be specific in your feedback and focus on areas where the candidate can improve, rather than just listing their weaknesses.

Providing Feedback to Candidates

Once you have conducted video interviews and evaluated candidates, it's time to make an offer to the top candidate. Be sure to discuss the details of the offer, including salary, benefits, and start date, and give the candidate time to consider the offer before accepting or declining.

Making an Offer

After the candidate has accepted the offer, it's important to start the onboarding process. This includes setting up their work station, introducing them to their team and colleagues, and providing training on company policies and procedures. Be sure to check in with the new hire regularly to ensure they are adjusting well and have the support they need.

Onboarding the New Hire

One of the most common technical difficulties during video interviews is a poor internet connection. This can result in lag time, frozen screens, and delays in communication. To prevent this, make sure that both you and the candidate have a stable internet connection and enough bandwidth to support video calls. Consider using a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi if possible.

Poor Internet Connection

Another common technical difficulty is software issues. This can include problems with the video platform, compatibility issues, or outdated software. To prevent this, make sure that you and the candidate have the latest version of the video software and that it is compatible with both of your devices. Test the software before the interview to ensure that everything is working properly.

Software Issues

Equipment malfunction can also be a common issue during video interviews. This can include problems with the camera, microphone, or speakers. To prevent this, make sure that all equipment is in good working order before the interview. Test the camera, microphone, and speakers to ensure that they are working properly. Consider using headphones to prevent feedback and improve sound quality.

Equipment Malfunction

One of the biggest mistakes that can occur during a video interview is a lack of preparation. This can lead to unfocused questions, a lack of direction, and an overall poor candidate experience. To prevent this, review the candidate's resume and cover letter before the interview. Familiarize yourself with their background, skills, and experience. Prepare a list of questions that are tailored to the position and candidate.

Unfamiliarity with the Candidate

Another mistake that can occur due to a lack of preparation is a lack of structure. This can lead to a disorganized interview that does not effectively assess the candidate's skills and experience. To prevent this, create a structured interview that covers all of the necessary topics. Use a scorecard or evaluation form to rate the candidate's responses. Consider involving other team members in the interview process to provide different perspectives and insights.

Lack of Structure

Finally, a lack of preparation can also result in a failure to highlight the company culture. This can be a missed opportunity to showcase the company's values, mission, and goals. To prevent this, prepare a brief overview of the company culture and values. Share this information with the candidate and explain how their skills and experience align with the company's goals. Highlight any unique aspects of the company culture that differentiate it from competitors.

Failure to Highlight Company Culture

One of the keys to effective communication during video interviews is active listening. This involves paying attention to the candidate's responses, asking follow-up questions, and showing interest in their background and experience. To improve active listening skills, practice focusing solely on the candidate's responses without interruption. Take notes during the interview to help with follow-up questions.

Active Listening

Another aspect of effective communication is clarity and conciseness. This involves conveying information clearly and avoiding unnecessary jargon or technical language. To improve clarity and conciseness, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. Use concrete examples and avoid abstract language. Speak slowly and clearly to ensure that the candidate can understand you.

Clarity and Conciseness

Finally, non-verbal communication is also an important aspect of effective communication during video interviews. This includes maintaining eye contact, using appropriate facial expressions, and avoiding distracting gestures or movements. To improve non-verbal communication, practice maintaining eye contact with the camera, smiling when appropriate, and using appropriate hand gestures to emphasize key points.

Non-Verbal Communication

To conduct successful video interviews, it's crucial to prepare thoroughly. This includes selecting the right video platform, ensuring that the necessary equipment and technical requirements are in place, and scheduling and coordinating the interview process effectively.

Thorough Preparation is Key

During the interview itself, it's important to establish a rapport with candidates and create a comfortable and engaging environment. Asking the right questions tailored to the specific position and candidate, and evaluating candidates effectively, are also key best practices.

Establishing a Connection with Candidates

After the interview, it's important to provide timely feedback and thank you notes to candidates. Moving forward with the hiring process, making an offer, and onboarding the new hire are also crucial steps in the recruitment process.

Providing Feedback and Moving Forward

Video interviews are likely to become even more prevalent in the coming years, as remote work and virtual hiring become more common. It's important for recruiters and candidates alike to become comfortable and proficient in conducting and participating in video interviews.

Video Interviews are Here to Stay

New technologies, such as AI-powered video interview platforms, are likely to emerge and change the landscape of video interviews. Best practices for conducting successful video interviews may also evolve and adapt to these changes.

New Technologies and Best Practices

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Best Practices For Video Interviews

Mastering the Art of Conducting Video Interviews