Technology advances at such a rate that it can take society a while to catch up. It seems that being comfortable in front of a webcam or a camera phone is essential in this modern age (even saying ‘camera phone’ is a bit of an outdated misnomer at this point).
You may be old-school and think that you can tell more from a person’s handshake than from what they tell you when they are “hidden” behind a computer screen, but video screening isn’t a replacement for traditional interviews. In fact, it can make your interview process more streamlined and authentic.
Video screening allows for candidates to show off their merits in creative ways without having to worry about the logistics of setting up a physical meeting. This means that you can cast a much wider net when taking initial applicants. It provides an even and inclusive playing field for all job-seekers.
Skip The Traffic
Providing applicants with a list of questions and requirements to respond to in a video presentation can avoid wasted time and effort on everybody’s part. Applicants that submit videos are already showing their motivation and commitment to work.
A potential candidate might be relocating or maybe they are unsure whether making the trip to an interview would be worth their time, the video interview can swing that candidate in your favour. You can filter out unsuitable candidates before using up your time coordinating a physical interview.
A Better First Impression
Establishing what somebody’s personality is like by looking at their CV alone can be next to impossible. Whether it’s a live video interview or a pre-recorded presentation you get a much more tangible and personable first impression.
You will have a much better idea of who the stand-out candidates are based on their communication, confidence and charisma. Are they attentive? Did they answer all the questions provided? Did they go above and beyond in any way?
Here’s Looking At You
Not only can video screening improve your interview process, it shows that your organisation is technologically confident and innovative. It also allows for your organisation to better analyse candidates with the ability to re-watch the videos and show the interviews to other involved stakeholders for differing opinions.
With the sudden boom in online video screening, interviewing and conferencing, along with the low setup costs and the countless employers jumping on board you have to ask yourself whether you might be missing out. It could be a trend, but with all of the associated benefits it brings it sure feels like it’s here to stay.