Video Interviewing Tips for Recruiters & Hiring Managers

The pandemic has significantly changed the way recruiting and hiring works. With so many people working from home, virtual interviews have become the new standard — and while the technology can feel intimidating at first, it's easier to navigate than you might think. Here are some practical tips to help you run smooth, professional video interviews.

1. Test Your Technology in Advance

Before the interview day arrives, do a few test runs with a friend or family member to make sure your chosen platform is working properly and that you're comfortable with its features. To keep your connection stable, avoid having multiple browser tabs open during the interview. Log on five to ten minutes early to catch any unexpected login issues — and always have the candidate's phone number on hand so you can switch to a call if technical difficulties arise.

2. Help Your Candidate Prepare

Not everyone is comfortable with video platforms, and candidates are likely already nervous heading into an interview. Make it easier for them by sending clear instructions in advance on how to use the platform — including how to create a profile, download the app, and test their setup. Give them enough lead time to get familiar with it before the interview begins.

3. Set an Agenda and Prepare Your Questions

Approach a video interview with the same level of preparation you'd bring to an in-person meeting. Let the candidate know how long the interview will last, what topics you'll be covering, and that there will be time for their questions at the end. Print out your interview questions as a backup in case of a technology glitch. Also, build a little extra time between consecutive interviews to account for any technical delays.

4. Be Mindful of Your Camera Setup

Choose a clean, uncluttered background to avoid distracting the candidate — or use a custom virtual background featuring your company logo if your platform supports it. Make sure your interview space is well lit so you're clearly visible on screen. As a general rule, position yourself in the centre of the frame, with the camera showing from roughly your shoulders up.

5. Showcase Your Company Culture

With many new hires still working remotely, it may be some time before they get to experience your workplace in person. Use the interview as an opportunity to paint a picture of what your company culture looks like — team-building events, training and development programs, and what day-to-day life at the organization feels like. If you're interviewing from your office, consider offering a brief virtual tour to give candidates a sense of the environment they'd be joining.

Watch Guhuza President Marc Belaiche, CPA, CA discuss this topic here. (With additional references used.)

Guhuza is created in partnership with TorontoJobs.ca.

Guhuza is the new way to recruit. As an innovative Canadian platform, it goes beyond the traditional job board — using breakthrough technology to instantly match employers and job seekers for the ultimate hiring experience. Our advanced matching system pairs job seeker profiles with relevant positions and ranks candidates for employers based on the skills each role requires. Once a match is made, live interviews can be conducted directly through the platform.

Visit Guhuza.com or our Knowledge Base to learn more.