What is a pre-recorded interview?
Pre-recorded interviews are a type of interview format where candidates record their responses to a set of predefined questions. Unlike “in person” interviews, there is no real-time interaction between the candidate and the interviewer. This format is often used in the initial stages of the hiring process. Pre-recorded video interviews are a common tool in hiring processes, offering flexibility and efficiency for both employers and candidates. Some platforms also utilize AI tools to assess candidates facial gestures, vocabulary, body movements, voice tone or clothing.
Benefits & Drawbacks
Benefits:
- Flexibility: Allows candidates to complete the interview at a time and place that best works for them, within a given deadline.
- Less Pressure: Candidates can record responses in an environment that is comfortable and convenient and are not directly speaking to a human.
- Reflection: Some platforms allow candidates to re-record responses, allowing time to strengthen your answer.
Drawbacks:
- Impersonal: Talking to a screen versus a human can make it difficult to act natural and create an environment that feels less personal.
- Timing: Some platforms have time limits for responses. This leads to increased anxiety to provide a thorough response within a strict time frame.
Common Platforms
HireVue
myInterview
VidCruiter
Willow
Hireflix
Spark Hire
How to Prepare:
- Research: Research the organization and position thoroughly incorporating information into your answers.
- Preparation: Become familiar with the platform and be ready for unforeseen technical troubleshooting. Make sure to carefully read all instructions prior to the interview.
- Practice: Run through common interview questions while speaking into a camera. Practice smiling and providing good eye contact to help you feel confident.
- Delivery: Act naturally and deliver responses slowly enunciating your words, trying not to sound rehearsed. Be mindful of your body movements, facial gestures, tone, and wording. Do not read off of pre-written interview answers as the videos will be watched by hiring managers.
- Questions: Be prepared for common questions, such as “ Tell me about yourself” or “Why are you interested in this company and position?”, as well as behavioral based questions. Always give structured and relevant answers, emphasizing why you would be successful in the position.
- Dress: Wear business or business casual clothing as you would for an in person interview.
- Environment: Choose a place that is quiet and free from distractions. Make sure your virtual background is professional and lighting is coming from behind.
Common Pre-Recorded Interview Steps
- Invitation
After submitting an application, candidates typically receive an invitation from the employer or hiring platform with instructions on how to complete the interview. - Setup:
After accepting the invitation to interview, candidates can access the interview platform and set up their equipment, ensuring a stable internet connection. - Questions:
The interview platform will present a series of questions for candidates to answer. Candidates will typically see one question at a time and have to answer within a specific time limit. - Recording:
Candidates will record their responses using a webcam and microphone. Depending on the platform candidates may be able to re-record their answers. - Submission:
Once all questions have been answered, candidates will then submit their answers for review. - Review:
A hiring manager or recruiter overseeing the position will review the recorded responses, or some platforms have AI tools that will review the responses. You will be contacted if you are selected to move on in the interview process. - Follow Up:
Send a thank you email to the recruiter or hiring manager (if available) thanking them for the opportunity to interview and express gratitude for their time and consideration. In addition, ask about the next steps in the interview process.
