Article
The benefits of video applications in recruitment processes
18/6/2019
min read
Business insights
Article
The benefits of video applications in recruitment processes
When screening a resume, certain criteria – such as education and professional experience – are in the spotlight. However, these don’t reflect a candidate’s personality, unique traits, or cultural fit within the organisation. By offering video applications, companies can bridge this gap while also demonstrating that they value candidates as individuals rather than credentials on a page. And the best part? Videos expand the talent pool by unveiling hidden gems – candidates whose written applications might not have stood out but whose personality aligns perfectly with what you’re looking for.
Let’s explore the key benefits of video applications, and how they transform both recruitment processes and candidate experiences.
A deeper understanding of candidates
Video applications provide a unique combination of visuals and audio, enabling recruiters to assess qualities that otherwise would be difficult to capture, such as enthusiasm, authenticity, or confidence. These factors play a pivotal role when we’re determining whether someone is the right fit for a role – especially roles that require strong interpersonal skills.
Let’s take jobs that involve frequent client presentations as an example. A candidate’s ability to express themselves confidently while articulating themselves clearly is essential. In those instances, communication styles and body language are much more effectively evaluated through a video compared to a cover letter.
More effective screenings
Screening resumes and cover letters is time-consuming and often limited to one recruitment manager’s judgment, potentially increasing the risk of unconscious bias. Video applications not only streamline the hiring process but also provide deeper, more diverse insights into the candidate pool. While it might be a cliché, a picture really does paint a thousand words, and visuals offer strong clues about someone’s character and motivation from the get-go. Save time and energy by identifying standout candidates early on.
Collaborative decision-making
Involve team members or other relevant stakeholders in the screening process by inviting them to review the video applications individually, before coming together and discussing feedback as a group. A collaborative hiring approach ensures that diverse perspectives are considered, helps identify the best cultural fit, and reduces unconscious bias. It also supports team dynamics, as everyone involved is more likely to feel satisfied with the final decision and addition to the team, having had a say in the outcome.
Reducing unconscious bias
Video applications play a crucial role in reducing unconscious bias, especially when combined with a collaborative hiring approach. As humans, we are all influenced by biases, even when we actively try to avoid them. Following a structured approach helps standardise evaluations and reduces the likelihood of unfair judgments based on stereotypes and assumptions. So, when all candidates respond to the same set of questions via video, it’ll be easier to compare their answers objectively.
On top of that, you secure a broad mix of reflections, values, and priorities when involving diverse team members in the decision-making. Ultimately, the recruitment process will be more fair, inclusive, and likely to yield a better outcome for everyone involved.
Improving the candidate experience
Video applications challenge the rigid and impersonal formalities associated with resumes and cover letters. While the idea of recording a self-tape might initially seem daunting to some, most people appreciate the opportunity to showcase their authentic personality and unique traits early on in a hiring process.
- For candidates, video applications provide a chance to tell their story, express their motivations, and make a memorable impression from the comfort of a familiar environment.
- For employers, video applications help with attracting the right fit for the role in question, and filtering out less driven applicants.
If your company has yet to incorporate video applications into recruitment processes, chances are your screenings are misguided, and you’re missing out on the most talented candidates out there.
Ready to take recruitment to the next level?
In today’s competitive job market, employers cannot afford to underestimate the power of a great candidate experience. Video applications enable creative freedom and personal connection, as well as unmatched insights into each applicants’ individual personality and qualities. It also promotes more collaborative, efficient, and inclusive recruitment processes. Don’t waste your time or effort; make smarter hiring decisions and stand out as a forward-thinking employer.
Check out Visma EasyCruit’s new video application feature below:
Are you ready to take the next step in your career?
About the episode
Linn Kjærland worked as a Commercial Advisor at Visma from 2018 to 2023.
Recruitment
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Linn Kjærland worked as a Commercial Advisor at Visma from 2018 to 2023.