Video Interviews in Recruiting: Pros, Cons, and Best Practices

In today's world of talent recruitment, the way we find and hire top talent has changed. Along with the traditional in-person interview, there is now the option of video interviews. This has become an important part of the recruitment process, with advantages and challenges for recruiters and candidates.

In today's globalized world, remote work and adaptability are highly valued. Mastering video interviews is crucial for both recruiters and job candidates. This blog post will cover all aspects of video interviews, including their benefits, drawbacks, and best practices.

Do Businesses Prefer to Conduct Virtual Interviews?

The landscape of recruitment and hiring has undergone a significant shift, with virtual interviews now being a key component of the process. However, determining whether businesses prefer virtual interviews over traditional in-person meetings is a multifaceted question that depends on various factors.

Many businesses have adopted a hybrid approach, utilizing both virtual and in-person interviews to balance efficiency and the need for personal connection. Some companies have even started utilizing pre-recorded video interviews to ask certain questions and then test the candidate on certain skills. Virtual interviews may be used for initial screening, while shortlisted candidates are then invited for in-person interviews for final assessments.

The preference for virtual interviews in a business ultimately depends on its specific needs, the nature of the role being filled, and the available resources. In fact, more candidates prefer virtual interviews as opposed to in-person meetings. While virtual interviews have clear advantages, the decision to use them over traditional interviews should be in line with the organization's goals and the expectations of both recruiters and candidates. Striking a balance between efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and the importance of personal connection is crucial in making the appropriate choice for each hiring situation.

Pros of Conducting Video Interviews with Candidates

Increased Efficiency

Video interviews are highly efficient in the hiring process. They are especially beneficial for professional recruiters who handle multiple tasks at once. By eliminating the need for in-person meetings and the associated travel and scheduling logistics, recruiters can manage their time more effectively. This speeds up the hiring process and allows them to devote more resources to other important aspects of recruitment, such candidate sourcing, assessment, and onboarding.

Video interviews allow recruiters the ability sift through more candidates quickly. Initial screenings can be conducted with greater speed and accuracy. This is especially useful when there are many applicants for one position. It helps recruiters identify top candidates early in the process, which is crucial in today's competitive job market.

Wider Talent Pool

Video interviews are effective for reaching a broader pool of candidates. They eliminate geographical barriers that usually restrict recruitment. Recruiters can now connect with candidates from different locations. This expanded reach allows for finding individuals with diverse qualifications and perspectives.

Increased diversity in the talent pool can have various advantages for organizations. Diverse teams are often more innovative and creative, and they can effectively meet a diverse range of customer needs. Therefore, by utilizing video interviews, recruiters can actively support diversity and inclusion within the workforce, aiding organizations in maintaining competitiveness and adaptability in a constantly evolving business environment.

Cost Savings

Video interviews save time and money. They eliminate the need for in-person interviews, which can be expensive due to travel costs, accommodations, and meeting space costs. This is particularly advantageous for organizations that conduct interviews on a large scale. The money saved can be used for other important HR tasks or invested in employee development.

Enhanced Candidate Experience

Video interviews provide candidates with a comfortable and convenient experience. By participating from their own space, candidates can reduce anxiety related to unfamiliar locations. This convenience promotes relaxed and authentic interactions, enabling candidates to effectively showcase their skills and personality.

Cons of Conducting Video Interviews with Candidates

Technical Challenges

Video interviews rely heavily on technology and can be negatively impacted by technical issues such as poor internet connectivity, audio or video delays, software compatibility problems, or equipment malfunctions. These technical challenges can interrupt the interview process, leading to frustration and difficulties in effective communication for the candidate.

Limited Personal Connection

Video interviews may not provide the same level of personal connection as in-person interviews, making it more challenging for recruiters to assess a candidate's fit with the company's culture. Non-verbal cues, body language, and in-person demeanor are harder to gauge through a digital screen, making it difficult to fully understand a candidate's personality and potential for success in the work environment.

Distractions and Environmental Variables

Video interviews may expose candidates to distractions in their own environments, such as household noises, interruptions from family members or pets, and other environmental variables that can impact the professionalism of the interview. Additionally, candidates may experience added stress in ensuring their backdrop and surroundings appear appropriate and neat.

Impersonal Nature

Video interviews can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, they offer convenience and flexibility, but on the other hand, they can feel a bit robotic and distant. Candidates often find themselves longing for that personal connection, while recruiters struggle to create an atmosphere that fosters genuine conversation. It's like a digital dance, where both parties are trying to find the right moves to create a comfortable and open space.

Both recruiters and candidates can aim to be personable and create a friendly, professional atmosphere during the interview. Engaging in small talk and friendly gestures can help to mitigate some of the impersonal aspects of video interviews.

Video Interview Best Practices for Recruiters

Prepare Thoroughly

Get ready for a video interview! Check out the candidate's resume and learn about the job. Dive into their background and become an expert on the role. It's time for an amazing conversation! Come up with a specific list of questions to really see if they're the right fit. Don't let this chance slip away to find the perfect match!

Create a Professional Setting

For video interviews, create a professional environment, just like you would for an in-person interview. Find a quiet, well-lit space with no interruptions. Dress professionally and make sure you look the part for your organization. A professional setting shows respect for the candidate and sets the perfect tone for the interview.

Effective Communication

Video interviews require effective communication. Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Maintain eye contact with the camera to build rapport with the candidate, creating a personal connection through the digital interface. Listen actively, giving the candidate space to speak before responding.

Video Interview Best Practices for Candidates

Test Your Technology

Before your video interview, do a thorough technology check. Make sure your computer, camera, microphone, and headphones are all good to go. Test your internet connection to avoid any pesky interruptions. Get to know the video conferencing platform that will be used, as each one has its own unique features and settings. Take it for a spin before the big day to get comfortable and minimize any technical difficulties.

Prepare and Practice

Prepare, prepare, prepare! Do your research on the company and the role you're applying for. Show them that you're serious and passionate. Highlight your qualifications and experiences that match the job requirements. Be concise and organized in your responses to interview questions. Practice, practice, practice! Speak with confidence and clarity. Rock that interview and leave a lasting impression!

Dress Professionally

Dress to impress for your virtual interview! From head to toe, make sure you're looking sharp. Even though you'll only be seen from the waist up, dressing professionally will give you that extra boost of confidence and make you shine on screen. Stay away from wild patterns or loud colors that might steal the spotlight.

Scion Staffing's Recruiters Work with You!

Scion Staffing is the industry leader in recruitment. We understand the changing job market and the importance of virtual interviews during your job search process. Our award-winning recruiting services are designed to maximize the benefits of virtual interviews and help you find the right job for you! In a world where virtual interviews have become part of the hiring and interview process, we excel at preparing candidates for this digital landscape of online interviews. We help candidates shine in virtual interviews and find organizations that align with their goals. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, our dedicated team will ensure your virtual interview is seamless and leads to the perfect job opportunity for you. Contact our team today to get started!

About the Author

Patrick Chiotti (he/him) is an accomplished SEO writer and is currently the Marketing and Communications Specialist at Scion Staffing, bringing years of experience in SEO knowledge and a passion for writing to the Scion team. With additional experience in customer service roles, retail, and accounting, Patrick brings a unique set of knowledge and skills to his role while sharing the passion to continue learning about a wide range of topics so he can share his voice to a larger audience. Outside of Scion, Patrick spends his time as a football coach at the high school level and is passionate about teaching the game, while remaining a student to it. He is also a husband and father, and enjoys fitness, as well as a passion for cooking amazing food.