Crushing the One-Way Video Interview
How awkward would it be for you to show up at an interview (live or virtual) and, after three minutes, it ends abruptly? Then, you are offered thanks for coming, and it’s over. Awkward indeed.
That’s why companies are using one-way video interviews in their hiring processes. These are candidate-recorded responses to questions, allowing the firm to quickly look at a candidate before investing more time in the discovery process. Screening by telephone has long been used for this purpose. One-way video interviews take this a step further, allowing companies to vet candidates without the hassle of arranging an interview at a set time.
It’s no surprise that many candidates don’t like this process. Some are camera shy, and some take time to warm up and fully engage the interviewer. Like it or not, it’s being used, so the candidate has two choices: play ball or look elsewhere.
I’ve written an article, How to Shine in Remote Interviews, and all of the principles mentioned apply to the one-way interview. Things like preparing for the interview through research of the company and interviewer, having an attractive, uncluttered setting (or using a virtual background), good lighting, good posture/body language, and maintaining eye contact all apply.
One-way interviews require some unique considerations:
1. Practice on video before the real interview. Turn on your computer’s video recording app or start a Zoom session and turn on record. Practice some of the most common interview questions. For example, why are you interested in this job, and why do you want to work for XYZ Company?
2. If you have a chance to listen to the question and pause before recording your response, by all means, do so. If you’re not rushed to respond, compose a good, complete response.
3. Take your time in responding. It demonstrates confidence and is a bit of a power move. It’s also a good way to reduce the “ums” and “ers.”
4. You often have an opportunity to reshoot your responses to questions. Take advantage of that. You’ll often find that your last take is the best because practice makes perfect.
5. Keep your answers concise. There will often be a series of questions to answer, and you want the reviewer of your responses to make it through all of them instead of stopping because you’re droning on.
While a one-way interview isn’t as gratifying as a person-to-person interview, it can be your ticket to a great job. Address its unique requirements and opportunities, and you’ll do fine!
I offer individualized career coaching and advising (remote and in-person) along with text, email, and phone support to help job seekers succeed. I've hired more than 100 people and interviewed over 500 candidates. I've worked at large global companies like Morgan Stanley and a company that is now part of Bank of America Private Bank and founded/worked at six startups. I welcome you to contact me and join my mailing list.