6 Pre-Recorded Video Interview Mistakes to Avoid

Human resource managers often save time and narrow down their candidate pool by conducting pre-recorded video interviews. By utilizing one-way video interview software, HR provides questions that the prospective employees must answer virtually.

Answering pre-recorded questions is beneficial for the candidate because it offers a self-paced interview style that is more relaxed. In some instances, it can also give you more time to think about or correct your answers. However, you should still take the time to prepare, learn how timed video interviews work, and be careful to avoid common mistakes.

What is a Pre-Recorded Video Interview and How Does it Work?

A pre-recorded video interview uses one-way video interview software to allow candidates to participate remotely. The questions are pre-determined and may appear in a written or pre-recorded format on the computer. This allows the hiring manager to screen applicants more quickly and find a handful of people they want to interview in person.

When you sign in to the one-way video interview software, you will follow the instructions. Some one-way interviews allow you to re-record an answer if you weren’t satisfied with how you did, while others only allow you one opportunity to answer. You may participate in a timed video interview, which means you need to ensure that your answers are concise.

Types of One-Way Interview Questions You May Get

If you are invited to complete a pre-recorded video interview, your interview questions will likely be similar to those in an in-person interview. You may be asked:

• Why are you the best person for this job?
• What is your work history?
• What part of your work background applies to this position?
• What type of work environment do you excel in?
• Do you work best on a team or independently?

These represent just a few of the questions you may be asked. There may be a few questions that are job- or industry-specific, too.

Pre-Recorded Video Interview Mistakes

Most people feel that a pre-recorded video interview is easier to handle than an in-person one because you don’t have to deal with face-to-face jitters. In other words, you will likely feel more comfortable. However, you don’t want to feel so comfortable that you make any of the following common mistakes:

1. Reading From a Script

Some pre-recorded video interviews allow the participant to see the questions first before the interview, while others use a timed video interview approach. If you know or have an idea what some of the questions are, you should not write out your answers and read them. This looks stiff, formal, and rehearsed. It’s okay to have a few notes to trigger your memory, but you want to appear relaxed and speak conversationally.

2. Rambling Answers

While reading from a script is not a good approach, giving a long rambling answer isn’t either. You may be doing a timed video interview, so keep that in mind when giving your responses. Also, rambling answers tend to make you look disorganized and can get boring. Although it might be easier to talk too much when there isn’t anyone in front of you giving you non-verbal cues to “wrap it up,” keep your answers concise.

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3. Messy Background

You might not think twice about where you are doing the interview, but it’s an essential factor in a pre-recorded video interview. If you disregard what your background looks like and it’s messy and disorderly, it gives a bad impression.

4. Noises in the Background

Having background noise is just as bad (or worse) than having a messy background. Not only will it make you look less professional, but it can be distracting for you when you’re trying to give your answers. It can also prevent the hiring manager from hearing you accurately. Be sure to put your phone on silent, send your kids and pets to the sitter, and put a do not disturb sign on your door.

5. Not Dressing Properly

Even though the pre-recorded video interview will be taking place in your home, that doesn’t mean you should dress in your sweats. You need to dress just as professionally as you would if you were going in person. Try to find out what the dress code is at the company and wear something one or two notches above it.

6. Not Staying Focused

You need to stay focused on the interviewer’s questions and your answers. This may seem more challenging since you’ll be reading the questions, then speaking your answers to the camera. Don’t move around or fidget while answering because it can be more noticeable in a pre-recorded video interview. Additionally, the microphone may pick up the rustling sound of movement or fidgeting. Overall, it will diminish the quality of the interview.

With these guidelines at your fingertips, you’ll have a great chance to move on to the next step in the interview process and secure an in-person interview.