The Growing Role of Video in Recruitment and Interviewing

According to a study by PGI, video interviewing has increased 49 percent since 2011. Six in 10 recruiters currently incorporate video into the interview process. Sixty-six percent of candidates say they prefer it. Here are some things to consider when adding it to your HR strategy if you are a company or your personal job search if you are a candidate:

Is it Legal?

Yes, with parameters. According to the EEOC, it is not illegal for an employer to learn the race, gender or ethnicity of an individual prior to an interview; however, video can increase the risk or appearance of discrimination. All individuals should be provided equal, nondiscriminatory treatment throughout the hiring process. Employers need to focus on the person’s qualifications, be sure that all candidates go through the same process and receive the same set of questions. If recording the interview, be sure that the candidates have agreed. Candidates, as the employer is focusing on your qualifications, should be able to communicate effectively.

What types of technology is available?

A one-way (asynchronous) requires the employer to independently create interview questions and watch the video responses on their own. Candidates independently answer the questions and record their responses via video. A live video interview allows an employer and candidate connect face to face via webcam (via cloud service, Skype, or other service).

How do I stand out from the crowd?

Employers can compete for top talent using video as an attractive option. Storytelling on the recruiting side is maximized by video and it is a great tool for discovering if a candidate is the right fit. Interviewing a large number of people in a short amount of time becomes possible and cost efficient.  If your candidate pool is Gen Y or younger, video is a must.

Candidates should plan, prepare, and practice. Know your resume inside and out, and have it at your fingertips. Engage the camera as if it were a person. Research appropriate dress and grooming (hair, makeup, nails, etc.) for video, clean the camera lens and test the technology including sound, minimize distracting body language, and avoid photobombs by kids and pets. Once the basics are covered, then you need a wow factor. Recently, we video interviewed a U.S. military veteran who used a background with a single American flag. The only thing he didn’t have was an apple pie or a Chevy. It worked. De-clutter your surroundings then use space behind you to sell your work-related accomplishments and create a memorable dialogue. If you are applying for a warehouse position, you could have a poster in the background that says, “Zero work-related accidents in the last 20 years.”

Video interviewing can be your edge. How will you use it to your advantage?

Written by Jim Annis, President/CEO of The Applied Companies, which provide HR solutions for today’s workplace. Celeste Johnson, Tom Miller, and Suzanne Chennault, Applied’s division directors, contributed to this article.