Have you ever been asked to do a “one-way” or pre-recorded interview? They’re awkward! But some employers love them for screening, so it’s definitely to your benefit to learn how to deal with them.
First, a quick definition: these are interviews in which you record yourself answering a list of questions. After you have submitted your application for a role, an interested employer will send you a link to record your answers. Typically these are fairly short screening interviews, with just a few questions, for which you will get a written and/or pre-recorded prompt. You get a certain amount of time for your answer (you will usually see a timer somewhere on the screen), and in the nicest versions, you will also get a practice run or a chance to re-record if you aren’t happy with your first try. The especially awkward part is that you’re talking into a vacuum, and usually you can see yourself on camera, so these one-way interviews are not most candidates’ favorite way to go.
The best way to handle these, if course, is to get lots of practice. To get started, try a free online interview prep module like LinkedIn’s. With tools like this, you can get used to recording yourself, watching your face on camera, and talking to an audience of nobody. You will also get to go over some common interview questions, which I think is always helpful.
To prepare for a prerecorded interview, start by reading the instructions you get. They will give you some tips and context, and usually they will also let you know how long you can expect the interview to be. For example, in some cases, you can choose from a list of questions or use a your preferred platform. (This isn’t always the case, though, so read those instructions!)
Next, choose your space and setup. Ideally you’ll have a natural background rather than one of the filters you can upload or blur, because those can get strange and glitchy, and will sometimes cut off body parts. Choose something like a wall, bookshelf, or cabinet if you can. Then, check your equipment and lighting. Make sure you are lit from the front and that you are in frame, with appropriately two stacked palms’ worth of space on top of your head. Test your microphone so you know that they can hear you. (Again, you can do all of this well in advance using the interview practice module above.)
Then schedule your time. You want this to be a time of day without distractions like people coming home or leaving, and when you are usually feeling good. When you’re ready to record, turn your phone’s sound off so it doesn’t ring partway through, give your dog an entertaining chew toy, put a “do not disturb” sign on the front door—whatever you need to minimize distractions. You can usually re-record a segment if you’ve been interrupted, but you’ll probably feel a bit flustered or frustrated if that happens, so give yourself a better chance at success.
If the worst happens and your internet suddenly cuts out, try not to panic. Give it a bit of time and then see how your connection is. You should be able to re-click on the link and then re-record your answers, but if not, reach out to the employer and they will send you a new link. Of course, on that note, do try to make sure your connection is good before you start. If your home has a terrible connection, see if you can find a place like a library room or a co-working space. Co-working offices may charge you a fee for a day-pass, but they’ll ensure you have a great connection and give you a quiet place to interview.
Remember, they’re not trying to trip you up or throw you a bunch of gotcha questions here. They’re just screening candidates to see who appears to be a good fit. These often replace the old phone interviews, so try to think of them that way.
