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Mastering Asynchronous Video Interviews: Your Guide to Landing Your Dream Job

In the rapidly evolving landscape of job interviews, the latest craze in recruitment is asynchronous video interviews (AI bot online interviews).

Asynchronous video interviews (AVIs) have emerged as a popular screening method due to the low cost, compared to human intervention, for choosing suitable applicants from the thousands of job seekers that apply for the advertised job role.

This new recruitment technology allows an interviewee to record a live response to, on average , three behavioral-based job interview questions via a video portal.

For the applicant, the advantage is that they are allowed to record their interview answers at their convenience during a short period of two to three days. One applicant might complete their AVI at 09:00 am and another at 3:00 pm. As there is no human intervention from the employer’s side, interviews no longer need to take place during working hours.

However, navigating asynchronous video interviews requires a strategic approach to leave a lasting impression and increase your chances of landing that dream job. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the ins and outs of asynchronous video interviews and provide valuable tips to help you shine in your next AI Bot online interview.

Understanding Asynchronous Video Interviews

What are Asynchronous Video Interviews?

Asynchronous video interviews is an online video interview with an AI interface. Candidates will open a recruitment webpage, sign in, and, using their video camera, participate in the interview.

The AI bot will, using text or audio, state a job interview question, before allowing a set duration for the applicant to record their interview answer. The duration is around 60-120 seconds.

Once the duration is up for each individual interview question, the AI bot will then move to the next interview question, even if the interviewee hasn’t finished speaking – so preparing and practicing short and succinct interview answers is a must.

Unlike traditional interviews, there is no real-time interaction with a human interviewer, making it more flexible and convenient for candidates.

It is also useful to understand the company’s values, mission, and recent achievements, as well as the responsibilities and requirements of the position. But, at this stage of the recruitment process, the AVI interview questions are normally based on the job role rather than questions around knowing the organization’s history or business objectives.

The Advantages of Asynchronous Video Interviews

Time Flexibility:

Candidates can choose when to record their responses, accommodating their schedules and allowing them to perform at their best. This can be morning, afternoon, or night. During a working day, bank holiday, or weekend, as long as it is within the time frame the employer sets out.

Location Independence:

Asynchronous video interviews eliminate the need for candidates to travel, enabling them to interview from anywhere with a stable internet connection.

Location independence also allows job hunters to attend the AVI even if they are holidaying abroad.

Preparing for an Asynchronous Video Interview

Research the Company and Job Role

Interview preparation is key when attending an AVI.

Begin your preparation by conducting thorough research on the company and the specific job role you are applying for.

Remember, in the main, an AVI is a screening interview. Successful candidates, once they pass the AVI stage will be asked to attend a structured job interview. You can predict what type of interview stages you will be asked to attend here.

Familiarize Yourself with the Technology

Ensure that you are comfortable with the video interview platform and its features.

Prior to the job interview, it is key to test your microphone, camera, and internet connection to avoid technical glitches during the actual interview.

The most important piece of advice to help prepare for an AVI, is to practice online AI interviews. There are many websites that offer free AI mock interviews that give you instant feedback, including one on Linked-in and Google.

As the saying goes practice makes perfect. For candidates who need more specific advice to pass the job interview, you can book an online (human) interview coach.

Create a Suitable Interview Setting

Choose a quiet and well-lit location for recording your responses.

Ensure that the background is free from distractions and presents a professional image.

Close down any other apps to reduce sound interference. An example of this is the ‘ping’ noise you hear when receiving a new email.

Ensure no one will walk into the room unannounced.

Think about the camera frame, ideally, use a shoulder-to-head frame. For more online interview tips click here.

Dress Professionally

Treat an asynchronous video interview like an in-person meeting and dress appropriately.

Wearing professional attire will help you feel more confident and leave a positive impression. Much research has looked at how dressing smart increases confidence.

Even though the AVI AI bot can be programmed to review eye contact, tonality, and even the candidate’s background, in most cases hiring decisions are based on the interview answer, not appearances.

Mastering Your Responses

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Analyze the Questions Carefully

To pass any job interview a job applicant needs to follow the three rules for a successful interview.

Rule 1 – identify the job criteria

Rule 2 – be a self-promoter

Rule 3 – communicate with confidence

Read the job profile questions thoroughly and use the essential criteria, and your understanding of the job role, to help predict the potential job interview questions.

By understanding what the employer is looking for, a n interviewee can tailor each response in a self-promoting way.

Use the STAR or SAP Method

For behavioral questions, use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or SAP (Situation, Actions, Positive Outcome) method to structure your responses effectively.

These interview answer structures, help applicants to create a concise and compelling story that showcases their abilities and accomplishments.

Having a simple structure during an AVI is important as the interview example is delivered in a logical format, and is easy to prepare and deliver within the set timeframe given for answering each question.

Be Concise and Engaging

As with all communication, be clear and to the point.

Avoid rambling or going off-topic, and reduce the use of filler words, and the number of times you stutter.

Practice diction, to ensure the AVI AI bot can clearly understand the words you are using.

Reviewing and Submitting Your Video Interview

In most cases, the candidate doesn’t have an opportunity to review their answers before submitting them. Some organizations do allow this, if this is the case, carefully review your recorded answers and edit any mistakes or areas for improvement. Ensure that your responses are well-polished and align with the desired message.

When starting the AVI, there is normally a chance for a practice interview question and answer (within the set timeframe) before moving on to the actual interview.

Use the practice session to check the audio, video, and communication issues (filler words etc) and keeping to the interview answer duration.

Follow Submission Guidelines

Adhere to the provided instructions for submitting your video interview. Double-check the deadline and ensure you complete all necessary steps.

Conclusion

By mastering the art of asynchronous video interviews and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can confidently approach your next job interview and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Embrace the flexibility, leverage your research and preparation, and let your authentic self shine through the lens. Remember the AVI is a screening interview so, in the main, there are no complicated questions.

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How Long Does The Recruitment Process Last For?

Data has highlighted how today’s workforce isn’t scared of job-hopping, leading to employers having to constantly recruit new staff.

An increase in advertising the same job roles, time and time again, has resulted in a shortening of the recruitment process with hiring managers looking to streamline procedures, but some employers still enforce a 4-6 stage job interview process.

Employees are willing to quit their jobs

In a recent article on MRI Network, talking about the cost of a slow recruitment process, shared staggering HR statistics: “25 percent of people quit their jobs in 2021; 65 percent are currently seeking out new opportunities.”

A Gallop post, sharing statistics from a report, back-up’s the job-hopping data: “21% of millennials say they’ve changed jobs within the past year, which is more than three times the number of non-millennials who report the same.”

In the same post, it goes on to explain how 50% of millennials believe they will switch employers within a 12-month period.

The job sector the advertised job role is in, as well as the demand for a career professionals skill-set, experience, and qualifications, impacts the likelihood of an employer recruiting a long-lasting suitable employee. The MRI Network article explains: “In any market, first-choice candidates always tend to disappear quickly, as they have multiple options to pursue.”

First-choice applicants are interviewees who can communicate their competencies confidently, creating a strong ‘interview identity.’

Long vs short recruitment processes

Even with a need to hire staff quickly to fill the gaps left by job-hoppers, some employers embed long recruitment processes.

On a list of HR facts in a Zoom Shift HR Stats article, they explain how: “60% of applicants quit filling out application forms due to complexity or length. (SHRM)”

The MRI article talking about ‘slow hiring’ says: “These days, employers need to act quickly and decisively, particularly when candidates are currently employed or need to relocate.”

Recruitment processes vary by sector. A detailed study, by Linkedin, of over 400,000 confirmed hires between 2020-2021 shows the duration of hiring times:

Source: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/can-you-wait-49-days-why-getting-hired-takes-so-long-george-anders/

The graph shows how industries that value ‘precision’ have a longer recruitment process. But why? The Linkedin article explains: “Companies in the tech industry tend to value precision — sometimes false precision — over speed…. can mean putting candidates through endless technical interviews, assessing deep textbook knowledge that’s far beyond what jobs may require.”

Demand drives change

Some organisations have a higher number of applicants than others.

If a high number of career professionals seek to work at a particular company, that organisation can have a longer recruitment process without the worry of missing out on first-choice applicants.

In a Glassdoor article they explain: “On average, each corporate job opening attracts 250 résumés. Of these candidates, four to six will be called for an interview and only one will be offered a job.”

A recent press release highlighted the high number of applicants for global brands: “1 million people applied for a job at Amazon as part of Career Day 2021”

An advice article about getting a job at Google on the Independent shared eye-opening Google recruitment stats: “Google receives more than three million applications a year and hires just 7,000 people”

The automated job process

The extreme number of job applicants has resulted in HR teams utilizing artificial intelligence robots to screen applicants and to act as job interviewers.

An HR research report from 2020 started: “a third (of HR teams) – 33% anticipate high or very high use of AI in two years.” Whereas other information shows how the pandemic has already created a faster move towards the use of asynchronous video interviews.

Algorithms have a cost-saving advantage over humans, as the AI bot is able to scan a higher number of applications per day than a human HR staff member.

The increase in online AI job interviews is making career professionals nervous, with a Linkedin poll showing how two-thirds of people are more nervous being interviewed by a robot than a human.

How many interviews do I have to attend before getting a job?

Interesting 2021 HR stats were shared on Zety.

How many job interviews are needed prior to a job offer? Zety said:

“According to recruiters –

  • Three – 51%
  • Four – 22%
  • Two – 17%
  • 5 or More – 9%
  • One – 1%

   (2017 Recruiter Sentiment Study MRI Network)“

Job interviews often include:

  • A screening interview (more commonly completed by an AVI – asynchronous video interview)
  • Strcutured job interview – testing competencies
  • Expert knowledge interview – this can take the form of a test, activity (an actor playing out a situation) or panel interview
  • Strength-based interviews looking at ‘company fit’

Number of job interviews by company

Organizational recruitment processes change over time and different roles within the same business will require a different number of job interviews.

Many hiring managers will state the number of job interviews on their website and in the job specification.

The below stats will help give a general idea of the number of job interviews require to pass the hiring process.

Amazon Technical Roles – at least 5 interviews.

  • Screening interview
  • Hiring manager interview
  • Written test
  • 2-9 ‘loop interviews, inclduing one with a ‘bar raiser‘

Source

Google job interviews – a round 4 stages

  • Online assessment
  • Short virtual chat
  • Project wrok
  • In-depth interview

Source

How many job interviews when applying to Microsoft – 4-5 interviews

  • Screening interview
  • Phone interview
  • On-site interview
  • HR Interview

Source

Apple interview process – 4 interviews

  • Screening interview with a recruiter
  • Screening interview with a hiring manager
  • Techncial interview
  • On-site interview

Source

3 Interviews as part of the Walt Disney recruitment process

  • Screening interview
  • Assessment centre
  • Face to face interview

Source

Coca Cola company hiring process – 2 job interviews

  • Phone interview
  • Panel interview

Source

How many interviews at IBM? 3 rounds

  • Video interview
  • Assessment
  • Final interview

Source

6 Virgin job interview rounds

  • Get to know you call
  • On-demand vidoe interview
  • Assessment
  • Discovery day
  • Live virtual interview
  • Face to face interview

Source

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Chris Delaney

Chris Delaney is one of the leading job interview coaches in the country, helping career professionals to successfully pass job interviews. Delaney is the author of several job interview reference books including ‘what is your interview identity’
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What is an Asynchronous Video Interview and Should I Care?

An asynchronous video interview (AVI) is a job interview conducted by a computer algorithm.

In an AVI, the interviewee is filmed answering a set of pre-determined interview questions. Each interview answer must last between one or two minutes. Post two minutes and the video recording ends, even when the job applicant is halfway through their interview answer.

Never heard of an asynchronous video interview? You soon will!

AVI’s have been around for a while.

In a BBC article, they explained how some industries have already tested AVI’s prior to the recent increase in common usage: “AVIs were being used as the first stage of recruitment in the healthcare, pharmaceutical, tech, business and finance sectors..”

In 2012, around 10% of ‘top positioned’ businesses used any type of video interviewing. An article in the Financial Times by Sarah O’Connor, talking about the impact of AVI’s, said that: “Of those employers using video interviews in the UK in 2019/20, 46 percent were doing them with an interviewer, 30 percent were using automated video interviews and 24 percent were using a mix of both, according to the Institute of Student Employers.”

A poll of 334 HR leaders by Gartner found that covid increases the usage of AVI’s with 86% of organizations incorporating new virtual technology to interview candidates.

Artificial intelligence being used in the recruitment process is nothing new

Large organisations have been using Application Tracking Systems (ATS) to shift through candidates’ application forms for many years.

In a Slate article, they explain how AI is embedded into the recruitment system: “Artificial intelligence has played a growing role in recruiting and hiring for some time, as both a timesaver and a matchmaker. A.I. has been used to generate job descriptions, to post and share jobs, to automate candidate searches, and to scan résumés and cover letters..”

Mid to large companies use ATS if they receive a high number of applications for multiple job positions. AI can sort the weak from the strong, the unsuitable from the suitable, a lot quicker than a human can. ATS mainly makes decisions based on keywords embedded throughout the application form.

Recent research by JobScan found that “at least 494 Fortune 500 companies use an ATS, we were able to identify the exact ATS for 482 of them. This means that 98.8% of Fortune 500 companies use an ATS”.

Artificial intelligence, from an employer’s perspective, is about saving time and money. But where does this leave the job seeker?

Which Organisation use AI Interviewers?

A high number of large companies are known to be using asynchronous video interviews, including:

  • PwC
  • Unilever
  • Kingfisher
  • Hermes
  • JP Morgan
  • Amazon

Different Trypes of Asynchronous Video Job Interviews

Understanding the platform the employer chooses to use is deemed as being highly important.

An updated article, on Select Software Reviews, details 13 AVI’s being used, including:

  • VidCruiter 
  • Hireview
  • MyInterview

In Slates ‘should robots be conducting interviews’ article, they explain that the various algorithms used by the various programmes look at various criteria: “Like humans, these bot recruiters have their own unique styles of interviewing. Some are merely seeking logistical information, like availability and ongoing interest, while others might be looking to assess drive, initiative, team-working skills, adaptability, or even your tendency to job hop.”

The BBC go-on to explain some of the challenges when interviewed by an AI system: “There are challenges; AVIs can vary in the amount of time allotted for each answer, and not every programme will give candidates unlimited preparation time or allow them to re-record a section if they are unhappy with their first attempt”

Some robot interviewers choose candidates based on their interview answers (keywords that match the job criteria), with others reading facial expressions and the candidates tonality.

A researcher, speaking to the Mirror, shared concerns that working-class applicants could be at a disadvantage when a robotic interviewer analyze voice and tonality of a job candidate, if the working class interview doesn’t have “beautifully compiled grammar”

How to Prepare for an Asynchronous Video Job Interview?

Each job applicant should first reflect on their past job interview performances and take the interview identity test to understand how they are viewed by an employer.

Specifically for an AVI recruitment process, job applicants must:

1. Set up the interview environment and IT systems

A full guide to setting up for an online interview can be found here: Online Job Interviews.

The biggest question asked is “what happens if my internet signal drops during the asynchronous interview?”

Luckily, the designers of AVI’s have tackled this potential problem. As an applicant’s signal starts to dip, a warning indicator pops onto the screen. When the signal is lost, the interview will atomically stop and only resume once the candidate’s internet signal strength is strong.

2. Practice speaking to camera

In the online job interview article, it explains the importance of looking at the camera, not the screen, to help improve eye contact.

For systems that monitor facial expressions, feeling an emotion (excitement, joy, happiness) will automatically show on the applicant’s face.

Many applicants worry about the turnaround from entering the virtual interview room and being monitored. In most cases, an interviewee can access the AVI, take a deep breath to relax, before actually starting the interview.

In fact, many AVIs have a practice interview question to help the candidate prepare and ready themselves.

3. Predict the job interview questions and preapre answers

In advance, the employer will send details of the AVI. This will include the date/time of the interview – this is often optional over several dates.

As there are no human interviewers, the job interview isn’t on a specific time on a set date.

The career professional needs to log in, often within a seven-day period, 24hrs a day, and complete the interview at a time convenient to them.

Candidates will also be told the number of interview questions they will be asked – with the average being three questions. And the duration of the interview answer, which is often one or two minutes per answer. Sometimes this information is present once the candidate logs onto the AVI.

The three interview questions will be chosen to gain a better understanding of the job applicant’s suitability for the role. In most cases, AVI’s are used to reduce the number of applicants, which can be as many as 20,000 for global companies to a manageable number of interviewees who will be invited for a face-to-face interview with a human.

One question will be a generic question on suitability “Tell me why you are suitable for the role?” or “Tell me about yourself?” or “What can you bring to the role?”

The additional questions will be more specific, based on the key job criteria: “Give me an example of when you did X?” or “What is your experience doing X”

How do you speak to a robot interviewer?

Research shows how a nervous job applicant will self-disclose weaknesses, give shorter responses and use excessive filler words.

The key to being seen as suitable is through a confident delivery of the interview answer.

Confidence is one element that creates a strong interview identity. A job interview identity is created by a mixture of content and delivery. An employer will have a positive view of a job applicant who they perceive to have a high level of knowledge and experience and who delivers answers with confidence.

AI interviewers have built-in software to understand mispronounced words, and to understand local slang.

But the advice is to always speak clearly and to pace yourself. Talk slower than you would when naturally speaking and focus on diction.

As with a human interviewer, be self-promoting, enthusiastic (especially if the bot is monitoring your tonality), and stick to the time frame of the interview answer.

Are AVI’s here to stay?

The test results aren’t in yet.

There are many concerns around biases with AI interviewers, as they are programmed by humans and data that are filled with biases.

Many people on social media talk about how being interviewed by a robot increase job interview anxiety.

But with one large grocery chain in the U.S. using an AVI to interview about 20,000 people a day for stocker and cashier jobs, it sounds like there will be an increase in robot job interviews.

With an increase in technology and a move to a virtual reality world, future job interviews could be delivered in the metaverse.

Evolve the mind book on Amazon

Chris Delaney

Chris Delaney is one of the leading job interview coaches in the country, helping career professionals to successfully pass job interviews. Delaney is the author of several job interview reference books including ‘what is your interview identity’