Everything you need to know about one-way video interviews

Many companies use phone calls to assess potential employees, some make use of advanced technology to conduct one-way video interviews. In this kind of interview, potential employees are asked to submit a brief video of themselves, which the hiring manager will use to determine whether to ask them to continue the hiring process. Learning how to record an effective one-way video interview can provide you an advantage during the recruiting process if you're seeking jobs.

In this article, we have defined one-way video interviews, why companies use them, tips for recording them, and sample interview questions and answers.

What is a one-way video interview?

A one-way interview, also known as an asynchronous interview, is a screening tool used by employers to decide if you should advance to the next round of interviews. One-way video interviews are quick video recordings you submit to potential employers to aid in the hiring process. In this video, you usually respond to pre-selected interview questions with the instructions given.

A one-way video interview doesn't have an audience on the other side of the computer screen, unlike a traditional video interview when you're chatting with a hiring manager or other employee. As a result, you don't get immediate feedback like you would in a live interview with an employer. Although this format can be difficult, there are advantages, like the ability to practice your responses and rerecord your video as much as you like.

Why do employers use one-way video interviews?

Because one-way video interviews have definite advantages over two-way interviews in any format, businesses increasingly adopt them.

1. Scheduling

Without having to worry about who is available when the organization can interview 20 candidates at once. The candidate submission can be reviewed at any time by the HR department, supervisor, and other team members. Furthermore, the candidate can typically finish the video portion of the interview whenever it is most convenient for them.

2. Expands the pool of candidates

Remote residents are exempt from having to travel to the main office for an interview. One-way video interviews give businesses the ability to locate and hire the top individuals regardless of where they reside.

Related: How one way video interview impacts the recruitment process

How does a one-way video interview works?

Here, candidates use audio or video to answer a series of questions. The flexibility of allowing candidates to record interviews on their own schedule is the finest aspect. Accessibility is better than ever because of the simplicity of a smartphone or computer. Because of this, candidates for jobs with busy schedules frequently favor the one-way video interview procedure over other alternatives. Employers also gain greatly from it, saving time, effort, and money on massive recruitment efforts with just a simple email or text. They simply examine and discuss candidate replies with the hiring team after receiving them in their inbox.

Tips for a one-way video interview

One-way video interviews are less frequent than other interview formats, so you might not have much experience with them. When a potential employer requests that you submit a one-way video interview, adhere to these tips:

1. Reread their instructions thoroughly.

This interview approach may be used by an employer to assess your ability to follow instructions, among other things. Make sure you know exactly what you can include in your video and how to submit it before you start recording. For example, some employers may assign you a series of questions to respond to within a given amount of time, while others may let you choose your questions and film your comments independently. Make sure you follow any time restrictions provided by the company. Save your video in the format they recommend, which may include detailed guidelines for the video's title.

2. Select the right recording location.

Locate a calm area where you can record your responses. Select a location with a neat background, such as in front of a bookshelf or a wall, and make sure that the area has enough light to properly see your face during the recording period. You can prevent being backlit by filming with your back to a wall and the light source in front of your laptop. This will give your face complete lighting. Clear the area behind you of any distracting objects, such as figurines or appliances.

3. Choose the ideal equipment.

The webcams on many more recent computers can be used for your video. For the majority of professions, the standard webcam that comes with a laptop can produce a video that meets the requirements of the company. Use an external webcam with better sound and video if you truly want to make a good impression or if you're applying for a job that requires audio or video editing. Test your camera in the location you've picked at the time of day you're going to record your comments. To make your video better, you can change the environment or lighting.

4. If necessary, rerecord

Watch the video you made after responding to your questions if you can. If you want to give a better response, you can typically rerecord a portion of the interview. Watch the full recording and make notes on everything you wish to change before you start over. By doing so, you might just need to re-record your response a few times before you have the version you want to send.

One-way video interview questions and answers

Here are some of the questions you can prepare for.

1. Describe yourself.

In essence, the inquiry is asking you to describe your professional identity. What makes you the most qualified candidate for the job and why do you do what you do? Even though you certainly have a lot to say, keep your response brief—about 30 seconds—and customised it to the particulars of the business and the position.

2. What are your strengths?

Pick out your strengths that are applicable to the position when making your list. But be sure to choose a strength that is particular to you.

3. In five years, where do you see yourself?

This question is used by employers to know two things: Is there a career strategy in place for you, and if so, how does this position at this company fit into that plan?

4. Why do you want to work here?

Your enthusiasm for the position, the organization, and your suitability for it will all be evaluated by this inquiry. Employing managers specifically ask this to distinguish between candidates who are dedicated and passionate about the job and those who are simply looking for a job.

Also read: Best practices for virtual interviews