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Video interview software: How to conduct a one-way video interview

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Is the one-way video interview the new phone interview?

The first round of interviews used to be done over the phone.

Now many hiring managers are turning to one-way video interview software to assess candidates more efficiently. 

One-way video interviews (also known as asynchronous interviews) serve as an audition tape for interested candidates.

They give you a great insight into how they present themselves. In this post, we’ll dive into the topic of one-way video interviews in more detail.

We’ll give you a high-level overview of the tech, cover the benefits and challenges, and offer recommendations for the best providers.

What is a one-way video interview?

A one-way video interview is a pre-screening tool that can help you decide whether you’d like to invite a candidate to the next round of face-to-face interviews (virtual or otherwise). 

The standard format involves a pre-selected list of around five questions designed to test a candidate’s capabilities and find out why they applied for the job.

One-way video interview software sends these questions to the applicant, they then record their answers using their smartphone or computer. 

One-way video interview software vs video interviews

Skype, Google Hangouts, and even FaceTime have become popular choices for video interviews and meetings in recent years.

You may be wondering why go for a one-way video interview when you can talk to a prospect directly? 

One-way video interview software typically offers a range of benefits that standard video conferencing platforms don’t. They also allow you to easily work from a single platform – streamlining the hiring process. 

For example, you can easily integrate these platforms with other functions or platforms – such as sending out an automated email notification to chosen candidates, easily integrating the platform with your ATS, or combining one-way video interviews with screening tests.

An integrated platform also provides a seamless, hassle-free experience for candidates as they go through each stage of the hiring process. 

The benefits of one-way video interviews 

As mentioned above, one-way interviews hold a wide variety of advantages for the interview process. Here are some of the top benefits when using video interview software:

benefits of one-way video interviews

1. Fit interviews around your hectic schedule 

The first benefit of a one-way video interview is that it’s easy to fit into your schedule. No more negotiating time to fit in a long line of phone interviews. One-way video interviews can be scheduled to suit the schedules of both you and your prospective employees. 

2. Hit fast-forward on the hiring process 

Phone interviews are typically drawn out. You have a long list of candidates to get through and you need to stay on a call – even when you know someone isn’t a good fit. One-way video interview software lets you record one set of questions and send them off to every interested candidate. 

3. Gain deeper insights into candidates

Facial expressions, body language, and the way someone carries themselves are all on show during a video interview, unlike phone interviews. Phone interviews only give you a shallow look at a candidate’s capabilities and the way they present themselves. Source

4. Connect with far-off talent 

Interested in a candidate located in another city? Or perhaps another country? Asynchronous video interviews allow you to easily connect with candidates in different time zones. 

5. Create a resource for future reference

Unsure about a particular candidate? Want to revisit one of their answers?

Asynchronous video interviews allow you to continually refer back to them as a vital resource for hiring decisions. 

In comparison, what you hear during a series of phone interviews is easily forgotten. Dubbed the ‘forgetting curve’ – within one hour, you’ll already have forgotten 50% of what someone has said to you. This figure spikes to 70% within 24 hours. Videos create a reliable resource – filling in the gaps in memory.  

6. Less pressure for promising candidates 

Some candidates fail to show their full potential in interviews due to interview nerves. This doesn’t mean they aren’t the perfect person for the job. Sometimes interview butterflies can mean a candidate values the position and will go above and beyond once they’re hired.

One-way video interviews take some of the anxiety out of the interview process. They give candidates time and space to answer questions in full and confidently present their value.

7. Cut hiring costs 

You can reduce hiring costs by up to 60%. One-way video interview software allows you to save money on things like logistics and manual screening.

The drawbacks of one-way video interview software (and how to overcome them)

1. Candidates can’t ask questions 

Phone interviews give candidates the chance to pre-qualify a company – as well as giving you the chance to pre-qualify them. One-way video interviews don’t give candidates this opportunity.

The solution? Offer a box for any questions candidates may have. 

2. No chance to connect

Another drawback is that you don’t have the chance to connect to a candidate one-on-one. Rapport, social and communication skills, and confidence are all the best evidence in a person-on-person conversation. Asynchronous video interviews lack this human element. 

On the flip side, one may argue that rapport building and testing a candidate in this way isn’t necessary at this stage of the hiring process. One-way video interview software allows you to filter out the best candidates based on a handful of pre-qualifying questions such as: 

  • Why do you want the job? 

  • Do you drive? 

  • What experience can you bring to the table?

These interviews give you a chance to cross a hard no off your list and allow you to focus on connecting with candidates on a deeper level at the next stage in the hiring process. 

3 best one-way video interview software

Now you know the benefits of one-way video software, it’s time to consider your options. We dive into three of the best below. 

1. TestGorilla 

testgorilla website

TestGorilla’s one-way video interview software allows you to create custom questions to send to candidates. In addition, can easily integrate your HR system with the TestGorilla platform. 

Moreover, as candidates don’t need to create an account to use the video interview feature, the interview experience is easier and less time-consuming. This creates a positive brand impression. 

preview of how to add a one-way video interview in TestGorilla

preview of how to add a one-way video interview in TestGorilla

Beyond one-way interview software, TestGorilla provides you with a host of tools to help simplify and enhance the hiring process. From screening tests on marketing skills and coding aptitude to software that pre-ranks applicants, you can integrate your one-way interview software with a range of complementary tools. 

2. Harver

preview of Harver assessment homepage

Harver is a popular choice for virtual interviewing software. They set up shop to help employers hire at volume, with asynchronous interview software that allows you to pre-record your own video or send off a round of set interview questions to prospective candidates. 

3. Willo 

screenshot of Willo homepage

Willo is another option for one-way video interview software. You can use Willo to pre-record set questions for a selection of candidates and receive video responses from across the globe.

Willo enables you to easily share videos with colleagues and access them from any device, as each one is held securely by the platform.  

Another added feature is the hundreds of questions pre-written by industry professionals. Ideal if you’re looking for inspiration for your list of asks. 

How to choose the right one-way video interview software for your company 

How do you choose the right one-way video interview software for your company? 

Here are some things to look out for:

  1. Does the software offer your candidates the best user experience? Is the software intuitive and easy to use? Can they avoid lengthy sign-ups? Do you have the chance to share your own welcome video and instructions? 

  2. How easy is it to integrate the software with other platforms and your applicant tracking system (ATS)?

  3. Does it allow you to present the best version of your company? Can you add employer branding to the platform to leave a positive impression on candidates? 

  4. Cost-effective – is the platform good value for money? What kind of features does it offer? 

One-way video interview software: The first step in pre-qualifying your chosen candidates 

One-way video interview software saves you time and expense and allows you to screen out any weak fits with your company. They are a practical tool to gain greater insight into candidates and how they present themselves, before heading into the face-to-face interview process.

With TestGorilla, you can add asynchronous video questions as part of your pre-employment skills testing assessment. Try it for free today.

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