Can you hear me, ok? Is the video working all right? - Use of video tools in recruitment interviews from applicants’ and recruiters’ perspectives

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to investigate the use of video tools in recruitment interviews, and what kind of experiences applicants and employers have of them. Moreover, the purpose is to understand the affects of their use on interviews and their outcomes. The study has two perspectives, as it investigates both applicants’, and recruiters’ experiences. Theory: Goffman’s dramaturgical model (1959) was applied in this research to understand how the applicants and recruiters try to manage their performance in video interviews, what role video tools might have in their performance, and how the audience perceives the performance when it occurs in video interviewing context. Method: This study was conducted by interviewing six applicants and six recruiters, who had participated in recruitment interviews that utilized video tools. A qualitative method was chosen, and the semi-structured interviews were held during the spring of 2022 via Zoom. Results: Video tools enable the applicants and recruiters to manage their interview performance before and during the job interview. This management is similar to what they do for inperson interviews, but video tools also require specific preparation steps, like setting the scene. Besides the setting, participants can use props to support their performance. Video tools can affect the impression participants formulate of each other and the evaluation if they are not aware of the limitations of the video tools. When participants have experience in using video tools, they can focus on the content of the interview and manage challenging situations such as technology failure during the interview. The experienced recruiters can manage the interviewing situation and thus set a base for a successful interview. Applicants and recruiters both appreciate the flexibility that the use of video tools offers. Other advantages of video tools are saved time, increased productivity, and a sense of safety. Regarding disadvantages, participants mention not being able to show personality, less natural communication, and restricted senses. Overall, interviewees feel positive about their experiences with video tools, and they hope they will be utilized in the future.