A pre-recorded job interview, also known as an asynchronous interview, is a type of digital interview where candidates record their responses to a set of pre-written or pre-recorded questions provided by the employer or hiring platform. Unlike a traditional interview, there’s no live interviewer present. Instead, the candidate logs into a platform (like HireVue, Spark Hire, or VidCruiter) at a convenient time, views each question on the screen, and records their answer on camera.
Why are pre-recorded interviews used?
Employers and recruiters use pre-recorded interviews for several reasons, primarily related to efficiency, consistency, and convenience. Here’s a closer look at why these interviews are gaining traction:
Efficiency in screening many candidates
In a traditional interview process, scheduling time with multiple candidates can be difficult and time-consuming. With a pre-recorded format, hiring managers can review candidates’ responses at their convenience, allowing them to assess more applicants in a shorter amount of time.
Consistency and fairness
Pre-recorded interviews ensure each candidate receives the exact same questions. This format can eliminate unintended biases or inconsistencies that might arise when multiple interviewers ask slightly different questions or interact differently with each candidate.
Global and flexible access
These interviews are especially valuable for roles with applicants from various time zones. Candidates can complete the interview whenever suits them best, making it easier for companies to attract a more diverse, geographically distributed pool of talent.
Faster hiring timelines
By accelerating the early stages of the hiring process, pre-recorded interviews help shorten the overall hiring timeline. Since hiring managers can evaluate responses in batches, they can quickly advance top candidates to the next stage.
What happens in a pre-recorded job interview?
Here’s what you can expect during a pre-recorded interview:
Receiving the invitation
You’ll likely receive an email from the employer or recruitment platform inviting you to complete the interview. This email usually contains a link to the interview platform, instructions, and a deadline by which the interview must be completed.
Setting up your environment
Since you’ll be recording yourself, make sure you’re in a quiet, well-lit space, free from distractions. Test your internet connection, camera, and microphone ahead of time. Most platforms allow a brief practice session, so you can see how you’ll appear on camera and adjust if needed.
Viewing and responding to questions
Once you begin, you’ll see the first interview question on the screen. Questions may appear in written form, or in some cases, you might see a pre-recorded video of an interviewer asking the question.After each question appears, you’ll typically have a limited amount of time to think about your response, followed by a set time (usually 1-3 minutes) to record your answer. The format of pre-recorded interviews can vary: some may allow re-recording answers, while others only allow one take.
Submitting your responses
Once you’ve completed and submitted your answers, your interview is officially done. Employers will review your recorded responses and determine whether to move you to the next phase.
More Like This: Why do employers use phone interviews?
How to prepare for a pre-recorded job interview
To make the most of this format, try to follow these tips:
Practice answers to common questions: Since there won’t be anyone to clarify questions or allow follow-up responses, practice concise answers to commonly asked questions. Work on maintaining clarity, eye contact with the camera, and a professional tone.
Test Your Equipment: Confirm that your device’s camera, microphone, and internet connection are reliable. Some platforms let you complete a trial run to review how you look and sound on camera.
Be mindful of time: With limited time to answer, aim to stay focused and avoid rambling. Consider jotting down a few quick notes (not a full script) if it helps you stay on track during responses.
Stay calm and composed: If you’re nervous about the solo aspect, remember that it’s normal to feel a little odd talking to a camera. Imagine you’re speaking to a real person on the other end, and keep your tone natural.
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