Video Interviewing has come into vogue. Now that inexpensive technologies are offering an affordable and effective alternative to travel expenses associated with the interviewing process. Some of that personal connection and communication style can be seen through the video interviewing process.

The two main forms are:
  1. Live video chat services and software
  2. Systems where the candidate records responses.

In Live video chat services, you now just use the webcams present on most new laptop computers. Alternatively, you can use external webcams that plug into your desktop computer. The candidate does the same. On the chat, just use the normal list of questions that you’ve created and work through them.

There are other systems where the client visits your website (or a service’s website) and records video responses to questions that you’ve loaded into the system. This avoids the scheduling issues and allows for more candidates to be involved with the process, without destroying your personal work schedule. It also allows more flexibility for candidates that are currently employed, since they can follow the process on their off-hours.

Depending on your company needs, both systems can be used in replacing, or in conjunction with, the normal system of flying candidates around for interviews. You might use the video tools as a pre-screener, before committing travel expenses.

You can use both the mainstream video chat tools offered by Google and Yahoo!, or you can go with interviewing-specific tools that are available like HireVue.com, GreenJobInterview.com, and InterviewStream.com.

While video tools can be very useful, keep in mind that as an interviewing tool, you must maintain a process that abides with hiring legal issues, like discrimination. Always, follow your process and use objecting criteria to back up your hiring decisions and avoid lawsuits. Don’t allow the video tool to create illegal biases in your process.

Modern Business Associates is an HR company that focuses on payroll and HR outsourcing. We routinely work with clients on a variety of topics related to employee hiring and recruitment. As a Professional Payroll and HR outsource organization, our clients rely on us to help them effectively deal with these kinds of topics.