A video interview is a job interview that takes place over the internet using a computer webcam and, in some cases, specialized software. Virtual interviews and live interviews are the two main types of video interviews. Employers should use video interviews to save money not having to bring a candidate in for an in-person interview and having a recording that can be shared with colleagues and reviewed multiple times. Job candidates are said to benefit from the process’s scheduling flexibility. Those invited to a video interview for a job should take steps to prepare themselves prior to the interview session for the best results.
In most cases, webcam technology is used to record a video interview. The interview webcam could be sent to the candidate to use at home, or it could be set up in a remote location, such as a branch office of a company headquartered elsewhere. Some tech-savvy businesses run their own video interviewing systems, while others hire a third-party firm that specializes in conducting remote interviews.
Virtual interviews and live interviews are the two main types of video interviews. In most cases, a virtual interview can be completed at a time that is convenient for the candidate. When he starts the interview opening the appropriate program, he is presented with a question that he must read and respond to within a certain amount of time. This procedure is repeated until all of the questions have been addressed. The resulting recording is later viewed the hiring staff of the employer.
A live video interview is similar to a traditional job interview, with the exception that the candidate and employer communicate via webcast rather than in person. A job candidate usually starts a video interview dialing into a video conferencing system at a predetermined time on his computer. He connects with his potential employer and responds to their questions. The video call is usually recorded so that the employers can refer back to it later if necessary.
Video interviews, according to proponents, save employers money eliminating the cost of transporting candidates to in-person interviews and allowing interview sessions to be easily shared among relevant staff members. Interview candidates are said to benefit from the process because it allows them to choose their own interview time and eliminates the need to travel in some cases. However, some critics claim that the video interview is impersonal or even dehumanizing.
Before completing a video interview for a job, those who have been invited to do so may want to prepare. To avoid technical difficulties during the interview, it is a good idea to set up the webcam that will be used for the interview ahead of time and practice using it. It’s also a good idea to study one’s on-camera appearance and make necessary adjustments to posture, eye contact, and lighting.