One-way video interviews – also referred to as virtual interviews – are now standard practice, particularly for summer internships and early-career hiring. An invited job candidate is given a link to a virtual platform where they are asked a series of questions and given a chance to provide responses, which are recorded. Once thought of as cutting-edge, these interviews are routine as companies become more efficient in recruiting. Beyond efficiency, companies also seek to provide a better, more convenient experience for candidates.
However, some misconceptions about these interviews can lead to a negative outcome for a candidate. Because the interviews are “virtual” some candidates don’t take them as seriously as in-person interviews. This can negatively affect how the candidate comes across to the internal recruiter and the hiring manager.
Here are five tips based on observations I’ve made while recruiting for internships and permanent positions.
- Dress as if you were going to an in-person interview. It is tempting to approach these interviews casually because they are virtual. Some candidates believe that no person will ever see the interview. However, you should assume that a hiring manager or an internal recruiter will view the interview. Appropriate interview attire from head to toe is the ideal approach. I believe there’s a psychological benefit to being fully dressed. It sends a signal to your brain to “take this seriously.” Plus there’s always the chance that you might need to stand up during the interview for some reason.
- Control your surroundings. Because there’s an assumption that these interviews are more casual, some candidates don’t “set the stage” for the interview. Some candidates have been in settings where they lack privacy and are surrounded by others engaged in active conversations. This does not leave a good impression. Ensure you have good lighting, a neat background, privacy, and a noise-free environment (even if using noise-canceling earbuds/headphones).
- Maintain active communication with your recruiter. This is important if, for some reason, you were unable to address all of the questions asked during the interview. Occasionally there can be technical difficulties – for example, you wanted to redo an answer (sometimes an option in the one-way interview) but your original response was submitted instead, or there was a software glitch that prevented from you completing the interview. Should this occur, you can reach out to both the recruiter and the software company to ask for the opportunity to redo the answer. It is likely you will be given that chance. (Note – you should not expect to be able to do this more than once). In addition, if a circumstance arises that causes you to need an extension to complete the interview such as sudden illness or travel, active communication with your recruiter will facilitate that request.
- Take the interview process seriously. Although you haven’t yet met anyone at the company, you are being evaluated and assessed. If you have decided to accept another position, it is appropriate to immediately inform your contact at the company so that they can remove you from the process. Otherwise, resources are wasted and you could damage your prospects if you want to work at that company in the future. It’s always best to be transparent about your situation.
- Don’t forget your soft skills. Because the interview is not “in person”, some candidates mistakenly conclude that they don’t need to pay as much attention to their soft skills, communication skills, in particular. Although a virtual interview seems impersonal, remember that a recruiter or hiring manager will review the interview. Virtual interviews will favor a strong communicator.Ideally, complete your interview as if another person is on the other end because that will make your responses more genuine and personal.
One-way interviews are generally brief – often less than 30 minutes, but they can provide real insight into your capabilities, and your ability to express yourself. They are no less “real” than an actual in-person interview. Therefore, your preparation for the interview is critical and your communication skills will need to shine.
If you find these one-way video interviews challenging or intimidating, you should address it given the increasing use of this approach. Reach out to us for a consultation at Kerrie@CommandtheInterview.com. Our mission is to help candidates master their interviews and obtain the job of their dreams!