Video Interviewing FAQ for Candidates

For the majority of candidates, a video interview on Spark Hire is their first video interview experience. Speaking with thousands of candidates, we’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions.

Answers to the most frequently asked questions about video interviewing

If you’re a newbie to video interviewing, you’ve come to the right place. Below we discuss the most frequently asked questions by candidates about video interviewing.

Q

Why do companies use one-way video interviews?

A

In many cases, a company is overwhelmed by the number of job applications they receive for a particular position. Enter the one-way video interview! Instead of being limited on the number of candidates that can be interviewed via the phone, companies have the ability to interview more candidates via the one-way video interview. As a result, more candidates get an interview opportunity so their story can be heard. Plus, this interview format empowers companies to standardize the interview process, learn more about their candidates, and improve collaboration with team members so a decision isn’t based on one person’s evaluation of a candidate.

Q

Why do companies use live video interviews?

A

Live video interviews are mostly used when a company is unable to meet a candidate in-person. This could be a result of geographical or scheduling barriers. Since a live video interview enables companies and candidates to connect whenever and wherever, no job is out of reach!

Q

Is this similar to a “normal interview”?

A

Hundreds of thousands of candidates have completed video interviews on Spark Hire which demonstrates the growing popularity of video interviews. Soon, video interviews will be a normal part of the interview process for most companies. However, most candidates are usually asking if a video interview is similar to a phone or in-person interview. Our answer to that is: yes. Treat a video interview just like any other interview you’ve ever taken. It’s a mandatory part of the interview process and offers many benefits for candidates just like you.

Q

Is this a replacement for the in-person interview?

A

No! Companies use video interviewing in many different ways to suit their industry and to be more efficient and effective with their hiring. The bottom line is that a video interview is an excellent opportunity to showcase why you’re a great fit for the position. Typically, companies do a video interview right before an in-person interview.

Q

Who has access to watch the videos I record?

A

The company looking to hire you watches your videos from a secure and private account. Only those involved in the hiring process are reviewing your videos.

Q

How do I look good in a video interview?

A

There are many tips on looking good in a video interview, but our top ones are:

  • Have light facing you - not behind you!
  • Center yourself in the video frame
  • Dress in business attire and present yourself on a neutral colored background
  • Avoid too much/flashy jewelry as it can be distracting to the interviewer
  • Treat the video interview just like an in-person interview with regards to grooming
Q

What do I need for a one-way video interview?

A

Spark Hire One-Way Video Interviews can be completed on any device with a camera and microphone, like computers, smart phones, and tablets. We also recommend connecting to a strong internet connection.

Q

What do I need for a live video interview?

A

A webcam or the Spark Hire mobile application for iOS and Android devices. We also recommend connecting to a strong internet connection.

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