Video Interviews – Employers
By
Lynne Griffiths

Remote recruitment is here to stay. Gartner’s survey found that 86% of organisations have been conducting virtual interviews to hire candidates during the coronavirus pandemic. 

As lockdowns are eased, whilst face-to-face interviews will return, the recruitment process will retain some remote elements. That’s probably because video interviews offer a seamless way to screen candidates, while saving time. 

We have listed our 5 main benefits when it comes to conducting video interviews;

  1. More cost-effective than face-to-face interviews
  2. Allows you to reach candidates across the country/world
  3. Enables you to conduct more interviews in less time
  4. It is easier to find a time for the interview that’s convenient for both the interviewer and interviewee
  5. Reduces your carbon footprint

However, It is not just the interviewee that needs to prepare. Being a good interviewer requires a thorough preparation for the interview beforehand. It is your first opportunity to showcase your company and you as a company employee.

Step 1. Know what you’re looking for

The first step to prepare for a video interview is defining the core attributes that your ideal candidate must possess. This is not just the technical skills required but also personal attributes. Note down a list of skills and qualities that you are looking for in an employee. 

Soft-skills to look for in a candidate when video interviewing: These could be for example;  passion, dedication, confidence, great communication, reliable & responsible, humble, dependable, collaborative, proactive

Step 2. Questions

  • Tell me something about yourself other than what’s mentioned in your CV.
  • What core skills do you have that makes you a great fit for this role?
  • Why do you want this job?
  • What are your expectations with this job?
  • What do you know about our Company?

Step 3. Look Out for the Red Flags

  • They talk about money too much.
  • Their LinkedIn profile and CV don’t match.
  • They interrupt you most of the time.
  • They offer one-word answers without elaboration.
  • They haven’t researched your company.
  • The candidate badmouths their former employers.

Candidates might be nervous because they’re in desperate need of the job or are giving a video interview for the first time. At times, these candidates might prove to be one of your best employees, so do cut them some slack!

4. Take notes

If you are interviewing one candidate or many candidates, take detailed notes during the interview so that you can refer to these afterwards and share these with colleagues if required. Make a note of things like:

  • Did the candidate do their homework (e.g., research about your company, understand the basics of the position they’re applying for, etc.)?
  • Was the candidate sincerely interested in your company?
  • Does the candidate have all the requisite skills and experience required for the job? 
  • Do you think the candidate is the right fit?
  • Present yourself (and the Company) in the best light

As with the interviewee, prepare your environment and make sure it’s quiet (and you won’t be interrupted), well lit and the camera is showing you at a good angle. And make sure that your IT is working, including a great internet connection. Have a run through before the interview so that you’re prepared and looking and sounding professional.

֍֍֍

Sirius Talent Solutions can provide your organisation with a tailormade recruitment, training and retention programme. For further details, call (01932 562007) or email:  [email protected]