What is Virtual Interview ??

A virtual interview is a digital technique that allows employers to remotely assess the suitability of a candidate via a video link. Virtual interviews are usually performed as a first-stage screening method, used to narrow down the pool of applicants invited to the next stage of the recruitment process.

A virtual interview can be conducted in one of two ways:

• A live, two-way conversation between employer and candidate, held via a digital conferencing platform or video chat application, such as Skype, Zoom or GoToMeeting.

• A one-way session where the applicant is presented with pre-set questions and required to provide their answers through video recording software.

A virtual interview brings many benefits to a hiring organisation. They are cost-effective, easy to set up and, unlike telephone interviews, they offer the employer a visual impression of a candidate’s interpersonal skills. They also provide a greater reach by eliminating geographical obstacles in the search for talent.

For the candidate, a virtual interview also offers benefits over traditional face-to-face meetings and phone interviews:

• Many people feel more confident and comfortable in a familiar environment. A virtual interview allows you to present yourself from a location of your choice – whether that be at home or another suitable space, such as a private study or meeting room.

• A virtual interview can reduce stress by removing the need for travel. It eliminates the potential added pressure of train delays or traffic jams, as well as saving you travel-associated costs.

• Unlike a telephone interview, a virtual interview gives you the chance to present yourself in full. Positive body language and a confident demeanour can increase your chances of progressing to the next stage.

• Just as an employer’s talent pool is widened by a virtual interview, so too is your job search. Travelling a long distance to attend a first stage interview in person can be impractical, especially if you are unsure of your chance of progression.