The Art of Video Interviewing: Tips from HR Experts

Video interviewing has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Not only does it save time and money associated with traditional in-person interviews, but it also provides HR professionals with a unique opportunity to evaluate candidates in a way that wasn't possible before. In this article, we will discuss the various advantages of video interviewing, and provide expert tips for HR professionals looking to master this art.

Why Video Interviews are Becoming Popular

There are several reasons why video interviews are being adopted by companies across the globe. For starters, it eliminates the need for scheduling and conducting in-person interviews, which can often be time-consuming and costly. Moreover, video interviews are convenient for both the interviewer and interviewee, as they can be conducted from the comfort of their own homes.

Additionally, video interviews allow HR professionals to widen their scope and tap into a wider talent pool, irrespective of location, which is particularly useful during times of crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, video interviews also provide HR professionals with a unique opportunity to evaluate candidates in a more comprehensive and holistic manner. Body language, facial expressions, and other non-verbal cues can be as valuable as verbal responses, and video interviews offer a glimpse of that.

Preparing for a Video Interview: What You Need to Know

Before you conduct a video interview, it is essential to ensure that you are well-prepared. This includes having a thorough understanding of the job requirements, the company culture, and the candidate's background and qualifications. Moreover, it's essential to check all the necessary equipment and software before the interview, including internet connectivity, camera, speakers, and microphone, among others.

It's also essential to check the video conferencing software that you will be using and ensure that both you and the candidate are comfortable using it. You can also consider conducting a practice run to iron out any glitches and ensure a smooth interview process.

Choosing the Right Technology for Video Interviews

When it comes to video interviews, the technology you use can make a significant difference in the overall experience. There are numerous video conferencing tools available in the market, but not all are created equal. It's crucial to choose a video conferencing tool that's easy to use, reliable, and has the necessary features to conduct an effective interview.

Some of the features to look out for include screen sharing, recording, virtual backgrounds, and the ability to react to non-verbal cues. It's also vital to ensure that the software you choose is secure and protects the confidentiality of the interview and the candidate's personal information.

Best Practices for Conducting a Successful Video Interview

Like traditional in-person interviews, video interviews require preparation, professionalism, and attention to detail. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room, with a neutral background to minimize distractions and keep the focus on the candidate.
• Test the video conferencing software beforehand to ensure there are no technical difficulties during the interview.
• Start the interview by establishing rapport and creating a comfortable environment for the candidate.
• Ask open-ended questions that encourage the candidate to elaborate and provide more information about their experience, qualifications, and personality.
• Listen attentively and maintain eye contact throughout the interview.
• Engage the candidate with follow-up questions and validate their responses, and provide feedback where necessary.
• End the interview on a positive note by thanking the candidate for their time and providing a clear timeline for follow-up.

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Video Interviews

While video interviews bring several benefits, there are also common mistakes that HR professionals make. Some of these mistakes include:

• Not testing the video conferencing software beforehand, which can lead to technical glitches and delays.
• Not establishing clear expectations upfront, leading to confusion and poor communication.
• Not providing feedback or validation to the candidate, which can lead to a negative candidate experience.
• Not preparing adequately, leading to a disorganized and unprofessional interview.
• Not being mindful of non-verbal cues, which can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations.

How to Evaluate Candidates During a Video Interview

When evaluating candidates during a video interview, it's essential to keep the following in mind:

• Check for technical competence, including communication skills, problem-solving ability, and adaptability to change.
• Assess their experience, including specific examples of past projects or challenges they have tackled, and how they approach problem-solving.
• Evaluate their cultural fit, including their personality, work style, and values, and how they align with the company culture.

Ensuring Fairness and Objectivity in Video Interviews

As with any interviewing process, ensuring fairness and objectivity is essential. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Ensure that you use the same questions for each candidate to ensure consistency and fairness.
• Be aware of your biases and take steps to mitigate them, including using a standardized evaluation criterion.
• Document each interview's results, including strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.
• Provide feedback to each candidate, irrespective of their success in the interview.

Tips for Communicating Effectively During a Video Interview

Effective communication is key during a video interview. Here are some tips to help you communicate more effectively:

• Speak clearly and enunciate your words to ensure that the candidate understands what you are saying.
• Maintain eye contact throughout the interview to create a sense of engagement and demonstrate active listening.
• Use non-verbal cues such as nods and smiles to convey your interest in the candidate's response.
• Avoid interrupting the candidate and allow them to complete their response before asking follow-up questions.
• Summarize the key points discussed at the end of the interview and provide a clear timeline for follow-up

The Future of Video Interviewing in Recruitment

As technology continues to evolve, so too will video interviewing. We can expect to see increased use of artificial intelligence (AI) to automate certain interview processes, including scheduling, candidate screening, and even evaluating responses. Additionally, we can expect further integration with social media platforms, including LinkedIn, for a more comprehensive candidate evaluation process. The future of video interviewing is undoubtedly bright, and HR professionals who master this art will no doubt be better equipped to identify the best talent for their companies.

In conclusion, mastering the art of video interviewing takes time, effort, and practice, but the rewards are undoubtedly worth it. By following the expert tips outlined above, you can conduct more effective interviews, widen your talent pool, and identify the best candidates for your company.