Due to the current situation, it is no surprise that video interviews are increasingly gaining popularity. In a situation where everything is going online, it is important to conduct video interviews the right way and maintain a great impression about your organization.

Here are some ways in which you can ensure your interviews run smoothly:

It’s crucial to ensure that the software you’re using give good quality. Software like Microsoft Teams or Zoom are some of the best platforms which are user-friendly and are well established.The simple interface of both platforms makes them a popular choice among users.

After you’ve decided the platform, make sure to test it out with a colleague to ensure it runs smoothly. Having technical difficulties during an interview can have a negative effect on the process and the engagement from the candidate.

Do not sit at a crowded area. Select a quiet spot at your workplace or a quiet corner if you’re working from home. Remember that you are also selling your organization to the candidate and they will need to listen to you carefully. If there is too much noise, there can be misunderstandings and that’s the last thing you want.

Before switching on your video, ensure your background is decent and your appearance is clean. It is absolutely essential to have a professional environment as it reflects your company culture.

Video interviewing can seem distant especially if you’ve never met them before. This is why it’s essential to focus on what the candidate is saying by maintaining eye contact -their experience, their learnings, what value they can bring. Taking notes is also a great idea as that shows you’re interested in what they have to say.

Technology can be unpredictable. On the off chance that your software stops working or goes bank due to whatever reason, always have a backup plan. The fastest way to have the candidate’s phone number so you can call them directly. Back-up plans means the interview doesn’t get postponed.

Sometimes you can get different insights by listening to the interview again. Perhaps you missed something during the first time. You can also use the recording to share with your colleagues and get their feedback. Different perspectives also help in solidifying hiring decisions.

Always inform the outcome to the candidate. Even if the candidate didn’t make it through to the second round, keep them in the loop. The number one frustration of candidates is usually to do with lack of communication. Lack of feedback can also have a negative effect on your brand and organization.

In a situation like this where social distancing has started to become a way of life, S2M highly recommends conducting video interviews. Not only do they limit the spread of the pandemic, but they are also cost effective, save a lot of time and enable you to send meeting links to anyone from your team!

We are working with some brilliant candidates at the moment so if you are looking to hire now, make sure to check out this link.