Tips for a successful video interview
Popular video platforms for interviews are, for example, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet and Skype. These video conferencing platforms are easy to use and they all are very similar.
Benefits of video interviewing
Using a video call as a remote interview method is quick and easy. The interviewer and the interviewee do not have to travel anywhere, but they still get to interact face to face. Transcription of video interviews usually succeeds well and the transcriptions are accurate, because video interviews usually do not have background sounds and disturbances, which are often present in normal face-to-face interviews. The sound quality can be affected by choosing an anechoic space for the interview and instructing all participants to wear headphones.
During the video chat, both parties can share the contents of their own screen. This is a convenient way to observe different materials and web pages together. If someone shares their screen during the call, it will also be included in the recording.
Before starting the interview
It is good to ensure the smoothness of the interview by instructing the interviewee as well as possible in advance. The instructions go through which device should be used to participate in the interview, and how the interviewee should prepare for the interview (e.g. headphones, quiet space). If the participant uses the video call service for the first time, he usually has to accept the permissions when logging in, or go to the settings to grant permission to use the microphone and video. It is good to set aside time for this at the beginning of the interview.
The video interview can be done on a computer or mobile device. If the interview is conducted on a mobile device, participants should download the video conferencing platform’s own application to their phone or tablet. If the quality of the video image is important, it is good to note that the image of the speaker on a smartphone may not be placed in the best possible way on the screen.
A separate application is usually not needed on a computer, but the most commonly used video conferencing platforms also work as browser versions. However, not all video conferencing platforms work with all browsers, so it is good to check that the interviewee has a browser suitable for the platform and that it has been updated. If the screen is to be shared during the interview, it is recommended that both parties use the computer.
Recording
In a video interview, you do not need a separate recording device, but the recording can be done using the video conferencing platform’s own recording function. To be safe, you can record the sound separately on another device. This soundtrack can be used to replace the video soundtrack if necessary. It is important to test the recording always before the start of the interview.
Video call recording is usually cloud-based, so the interviewer does not have to worry about whether there is enough storage space on a device even during the recording. Before the interview it is important to make sure that the interviewees agree to the recording of the interview.
Privacy policy and GDPR
It is important to check the video conferencing platform’s privacy policy and what personal information is stored in the video (this could be, for example, the user’s email address or name when joining).
If the interviewer instructs the interviewee to share his screen, it is good to remind him that all the content visible on the screen is recorded on video. If necessary, personal information can be edited out of the recording. The interviewer must take care of the proper storage and deletion of the recordings.