Pre-Recorded Video Interviews: What You Need to Know

Are you sweating over your upcoming pre-recorded video interview?

Wondering if you’ll freeze up on camera or if your tech will fail you at the worst moment during your job interview?

 Take a deep breath—we’ve got you covered.

In today’s fast-paced job market, more and more companies are turning to pre-recorded video interviews to streamline their hiring process.

But what does that mean for you, the job seeker?

In fact, it’s a good thing for you.

A pre-recorded video interview is your chance to shine on your own terms. No real-time pressure, no unexpected curveballs. Just you, your camera, and your awesome answers.

So, what exactly is a pre-recorded video interview, a type of online interview? It’s simple: instead of a live chat, you’re given questions to answer on video, on your own time. Think of it as a video selfie with a professional twist.

Here’s how it typically works:

1. You get an invite with instructions
2. You log into a platform or app
3. Questions pop up on your screen
4. You record your answers
5. You submit your responses

This method is increasingly becoming a crucial part of the recruitment process, helping employers efficiently screen candidates.

You might be wondering why employers are so enthusiastic about pre-recorded job interviews. Let’s break it down from both perspectives:

For employers, pre-recorded interviews are a game-changer. They can review candidates at their convenience, which is especially useful when dealing with a large number of applicants.

It’s also easier for them to compare candidates side-by-side, ensuring a fair and consistent evaluation process. Plus, it saves them significant time and resources in the initial screening stages.

But what’s in it for you?

Plenty, actually.

Pre-recorded interviews allow you to showcase your skills when you’re at your best. No more worrying about rush-hour traffic making you late or struggling to find a quiet corner in a busy coffee shop for a phone interview.

You have the freedom to choose the time and place that works best for you.

Moreover, this format eliminates scheduling headaches and time zone troubles. If you’re applying for a job in a different city or even country, you don’t have to worry about coordinating across time zones.

This levels the playing field, giving all candidates a fair shot, regardless of their location.

Not all pre-recorded interviews are created equal. Understanding the different types can help you prepare more effectively:

Unlike pre-recorded interviews, live video interviews involve real-time interaction with an interviewer, similar to an in-person interview.

One-way Interviews

This is the most common type of pre-recorded interview. You’ll are presented with questions on your screen and asked to record your responses. There’s no real-time interaction with an interviewer.

This format allows you to take your time formulating responses, but it also means you need to be extra clear and comprehensive in your answers since there’s no opportunity for follow-up questions.

Two-way Interviews

Less common but gaining popularity, two-way pre-recorded interviews involve video questions from actual team members. While still not live, this format can feel more personal and give you a better sense of the company culture.

Pay attention to the interviewer’s body language and tone in these video questions—they might provide clues about what the company values.

Timed Responses

Some platforms impose a time limit for each response.

This could range from 30 seconds to several minutes, depending on the question. Timed interviews test your ability to think on your feet and communicate concisely.

Practice is key here—you want to provide a complete answer without running out of time or having long, awkward pauses.

Open-ended Responses

In contrast, some interviews allow you to take as long as you need to respond. While this might seem less stressful, it comes with its own challenge: knowing when to wrap up your answer.

Aim to be comprehensive but concise. A rambling answer isn’t going to impress anyone.

Knowing which type of interview you’re facing will help you plan your approach.

If it’s a timed interview, you’ll need to practice giving concise, impactful answers.

For open-ended interviews, you might prepare more detailed examples to illustrate your points.

Regardless of the format, the goal remains the same: to effectively communicate why you’re the best candidate for the job.

You don’t need a Hollywood setup, but a little effort goes a long way:

• Lighting: Face a window or use a lamp to light your face evenly.
• Background: Keep it simple and professional. A plain wall works great.
• Sound: Choose a quiet space. Use headphones with a mic if possible.
• Camera angle: Position your camera at eye level.
• Dress professionally: Treat the pre-recorded video interview as you would a face-to-face interview. Avoid clothes that could distract the recruiter from your answers.

Quick tip: Do a test run and watch it back. You’ll spot any issues before the real deal.

Now that you understand the process, let’s dive into some strategies to help you shine in your pre-recorded interview:

Practice, But Don’t Memorize

The key is to sound natural, not like you’re reciting a script. Instead of memorizing exact responses, practice talking about your experiences and skills in a conversational manner.

This helps you come across as genuine and adaptable.

Dress for Success

Even though you’re at home, dress as you would for a face-to-face interview.

This not only looks professional on camera but can also help put you in the right mindset.

Choose solid colors over busy patterns, which can be distracting on video.

Make Eye Contact

This might feel unnatural at first, but it’s crucial for creating a connection with employer.

Look directly into the camera lens, not at your own image on the screen.

A helpful trick is to place a small sticker next to your camera as a reminder of where to look.

Use the STAR Method

For behavioral questions, structure your responses using the Situation, Task, Action, Result format.

This helps you provide concrete examples of your skills in action.

 For instance, if asked about a time you showed leadership, you might describe the situation (a project falling behind), the task (getting it back on track), your actions (how you motivated the team), and the result (successful project completion).

Show Enthusiasm

Let your personality shine through. Smile, use hand gestures (in moderation), and vary your tone of voice.

Remember, employers aren’t just looking for skills—they want someone who will be a positive addition to their team.

Keep it Concise

Aim for responses that are 1-2 minutes long unless instructed otherwise. This shows respect for the interviewer’s time and demonstrates your ability to communicate efficiently.

If you find yourself going over time in practice, focus on cutting out unnecessary details while keeping the core of your message intact.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a great impression in your pre-recorded interview.

Remember, the goal is to present the best version of yourself—professional, prepared, and genuinely excited about the opportunity.

Artificial Intelligence is already making its way into the video interviewing process, and its role is likely to expand in the coming years. In the context of video interviews, AI could be used to:

• Analyze facial expressions and body language
• Assess speech patterns and word choice
• Evaluate candidates’ problem-solving skills based on their responses

Pre-recorded video interviews often include a mix of standard interview questions and role-specific inquiries.

Being prepared for these common questions can help you feel more confident and deliver compelling responses.

Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions and strategies to answer them effectively:

“Tell me about yourself.”

This classic opener is your chance to make a strong first impression. The key is to keep it relevant to the job and highlight your key skills and experiences.

How to approach it:

1. Start with a brief overview of your professional background.
2. Highlight 2-3 key achievements or skills that are most relevant to the role.
3. Conclude with a statement about why you’re interested in this position.

Remember to keep your response concise, aiming for about 60-90 seconds.

For a full lowdown on this question and how to answer it, check out the dedicated page.

“Why do you want to work here?”

This question tests whether you’ve done your homework on the company and if you can connect their mission to your career goals.

How to ace it:

1. Show that you’ve researched the company thoroughly.
2. Align the company’s values or recent projects with your own professional interests.
3. Explain how you can contribute to their goals.

For a full lowdown on this question and how to answer it, check out the dedicated page.

“Describe a challenge you’ve faced at work.”

This behavioral question is designed to assess your problem-solving skills and how you handle difficult situations. The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is perfect for structuring your response.

How to structure your answer:

1.      Situation: Briefly describe the context of the challenge.

2.      Task: Explain what you needed to accomplish.

3.      Action: Detail the steps you took to address the problem.

4.      Result: Share the positive outcome and what you learned.

“Where do you see yourself in five years?”

This question aims to gauge your ambition and whether your career goals align with the company’s growth trajectory.

How to approach it:

1. Be realistic yet ambitious.
2. Connect your goals to the position and company you’re applying to.
3. Show enthusiasm for growth within the organization.

Conclusion: Your Path to Pre-Recorded Interview Success

Pre-recorded video interviews are here to stay.

By understanding the format, preparing your environment, and practicing your responses, you can turn this innovative method into your advantage.

Remember, authenticity is key – let your genuine enthusiasm shine through.

For extra support, consider using Skillful Talk for perfect interview preparation. This tool can help you practice and refine your presentation skills in a safe environment.

With the right preparation and mindset, you’re not just ready for your pre-recorded video interview – you’re ready to ace it. Good luck!