This post will teach you how to pass a pre-recorded or on-demand video interview, what a pre-recorded video interview is, why they are used, and how the process works.
If you have a pre-recorded video interview coming up soon for any job or company, read this post from start to finish because it will help you pass it at the first attempt.
What does on-demand or pre-recorded video interview mean?
To help you pass your pre-recorded video interview, this post will teach you the following three things:
- What a pre-recorded video interview is and how the process works.
- Five important tips for passing your pre-recorded video interview.
- Example answers to the most common pre-recorded video interview questions.
WHAT IS A PRE-RECORDED OR ON-DEMAND VIDEO INTERVIEW?
A pre-recorded video interview, also known as an on-demand or one-way video interview, is a job interview format in which the candidate (i.e you), records their responses to a set of pre-determined interview questions without the presence of an interviewer in real time.
Instead of conducting a live video interview where the candidate and the interviewer interact simultaneously, the candidate receives a list of questions and is typically given a specific time frame to record their answers using a webcam or a dedicated video interview platform.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A PRE-RECORDED VIDEO INTERVIEW?
How a pre-recorded video interview typically works.
- Invitation stage
You will receive an invitation to participate in the pre-recorded video interview, usually by way of an email or receiving a link to an online video platform.
- Instruction stage
You are then provided with on-screen instructions on how to access the interview questions and record your responses. You will also receive information about the time limit for each question and any technical requirements.
- Recording stage
You then have to record your answers to the interview questions one at a time, usually in the order they are provided. You will have a limited amount of time, typically one to two minutes to answer each question.
- Submission stage
After you have given your answers, you will submit the completed interview. Some platforms will allow you to review and re-record your answers before final submission, while others do not.
- Evaluation stage
Once you have submitted your responses, the hiring manager or recruiter will review the video answers at their convenience. They will assess your interview technique, communication skills and your overall fit for the position through your answers.
ADVANTAGES OF A PRE-RECORDED OR ON-DEMAND INTERVIEW
Pre-recorded video interviews offer several advantages for the candidates, you and the employer as follows:
Flexibility: Which means the candidate can complete the interview at a time that is convenient for them within the given time frame, reducing scheduling conflicts.
Consistency: This means all candidates receive the same set of questions ensuring a consistent evaluation process.
Time efficiency: Employers can review the video interviews at their convenience and also save time compared to conducting live interviews with multiple candidates.
PRE-RECORDED VIDEO INTERVIEW TIPS
Below are five important tips for passing pre-recorded or on-demand video interview:
Pre-recorded video interview tip 1: Treat it as a real interview. Although you won’t be speaking to a live person, you should still communicate and act as if you are.
Pre-recorded video interview tip 2: Make sure you wear a smart and professional-looking outfit to your pre-recorded video interview. This is important because the hiring manager will assess your motivations for wanting the job. If you wear a smart outfit, it tells them you care and you have high standards.
Pre-recorded video interview tip 3: Make sure your background looks professional and is free from clutter. You should also make sure there is a strong internet connection in the location you undertake the video interview.
Pre-recorded video interview tip 4: Make sure you practice speaking while looking at your webcam as opposed to the computer screen. This will help maintain eye contact with the hiring manager when they eventually review your responses.
Pre-recorded video interview tip 5: Make sure you practice your answers to the most common pre-recorded video interview questions before your interview. This will help improve communication skills, which is a key accessible area.
PRE-RECORDED OR ON-DEMAND VIDEO INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Below are some brilliant answers to the most common pre-recorded or on-demand video interview questions:
Pre-recorded video interview question #1: Tell me about yourself.
Here’s a great answer.
“Thank you for this opportunity. My name is [INSERT YOUR NAME] and I am a confident, adaptable, reliable and supportive team player who has the skills and knowledge to match the job description.
I graduated from college with subjects in [INSERT YOUR SUBJECTS], and since then, I have worked in several positions where I have been required to provide excellent customer service, solve challenging problems and collaborate on projects to achieve time-sensitive deadlines.
I am a high achiever. In my last position, I won Employee of the month and I helped the team I was on achieve the best-ever sales for a new company product launch.
Outside work, I played team sports and keep fit and active, meaning my energy and concentration levels are always high.
If you hire me, I will be a good role model for the company brand, adopt a cost-conscious approach to my work to help you save money, and take ownership of my professional development to ensure you see a positive return from my salary.”
Pre-recorded video interview question #2: Why are you interested in this job?
Here’s a great answer:
“I am interested in this job because it is in an industry that I am very passionate about. The job specification is a close match for my qualifications and knowledge, and I am particularly attracted to the position because it is with your company.
My research tells me you are a forward-thinking and innovative employer that is going places, and your inclusive workplace culture means I will be supported in my work and have the opportunity to hone my skills to become an expert in my area of specialism.”
Pre-recorded video interview question #3: What are your greatest strengths?
Here’s a great answer:
“My greatest strengths are my responsiveness, adaptability to change, and how I take responsibility for problems and challenges.
I am a fast worker and get things done quickly so I can then move on to the next task.
I will support new company initiatives so you stay ahead of the competition, and whenever there is a difficult problem, I will take it upon myself to find a solution that is in the best interests of the team.”
Pre-recorded video interview question #4: What is your biggest weakness?
Here’s a great answer:
“My biggest weakness is I am not yet very good at public speaking. While this weakness will not hinder my ability to perform well in this position, it is an area I would like to develop.
Therefore, if there are any opportunities in this role to give talks or presentations to my team, then I would like to give it a try.”
Pre-recorded video interview question #5: Why should we hire you?
Here’s a great answer:
“I believe I am the ideal candidate for this role due to my unique blend of skills and experiences that align perfectly with your company’s needs.
What truly sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to expectations and driving results. I am a proactive problem solver who thrives in dynamic environments, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my expertise to your team.
I am confident that my dedication, adaptability, and proven track record make me a valuable asset to your organization. I look forward to the opportunity to leverage my skills to help your team excel and achieve its goals.”
Thank you for reading this post. I wish you all the best for passing your job interview.