What To Look For When Shopping For Video Interview Software

Options are great, but they make making a decision hard. If you’re often in the muck of the hiring process, you don’t need any more decisions on your to-do list. There are free online interview tools like HireVue, Outmatch, Spark Hire, MyInterview, and Vidcruiter (with the option to upgrade to paid), but don’t settle for the limited-feature version right away. Here are some of our favorite features of video interview software that really take your interview game to the next level.

1. Does it offer one-way, two-way, or both?

Backing up for a hot segundo to define both of these. A one-way video interview is when a candidate records their answers to questions previously sent to them by the hiring manager or recruiter. This is also referred to as an automated video interview. Some softwares even offer free video interview practice for these types of interviews. A two-way video interview is the more common type that you likely know well, especially after the last year (thanks, COVID!). Two-way is when you’re speaking directly to a candidate via video.

2. Does it support structured interviewing?

Structured interviewing is likely offered by most video interview software, but this is an important one. Structured interviewing means using the same methods to assess candidates that are applying for the same role. Holding yourself and your team accountable to a structured interview process helps to reduce bias. Think of it as a rubric that becomes your BFF through the interview process, grading candidates as objectively as possible.

3. Does it have a reliable video platform?

The “Can you hear me now’s” are not cute on a regular call with your colleagues, so they’re sure as heck not cute when you’re trying to conduct an uninterrupted interview. Be sure to check which video tool a software uses before you commit. While we’re on the topic of tools, check what else the software integrates with. Some work in tandem with platforms like Lever, Greenhouse, and Calendly, making it even easier to combine and simplify workstreams.

4. Can you create highlights?

It’s no secret an interview process with one candidate houses a lot of info, especially between multiple colleague’s notes and feedback. Throw a few more candidates into the mix, additional roles, all of your other work, remembering to eat lunch, calling your mom and breathing, you may find the ability to create highlights extremely valuable. Not only will they help you not forget the good nuggets from a conversation, they’re easy to share with your team to get feedback and collaborate on a decision.

5. Does it transcribe?

We’re all for taking notes and taking names (...of candidates), but no doubt taking notes during an interview can be distracting, both for you and the candidate. Softwares that transcribe can help you be present with the candidate. Tools that record and transcribe mean you don't have to hire based on memory or gut, and you won’t find yourself thinking, “What’s that thing they said in the middle of the conversation about xyz…?”

6. Does it provide interview coaching?

We saved the best for last, obviously. Interview tools that aid in the logistical part of the process are great. They likely keep you and your team organized, speed up time to hire, and streamline communication. But the real golden ticket here is learning how to better conduct an interview, and improving your skills with every conversation you have with a candidate. Find a video interview software that hones in on the coaching aspect and provides you with the resources to do so.