One-way video interviews: a practical guide for hiring teams
How to run a one-way video interview, choose useful questions and review answers. Includes a first-screen plan and the situations where a live call works better.
Templates
Video interview invitation emails candidates can understand
An interview link on its own asks candidates to guess too much. They need to know how long the task takes, who will watch the answers and whether there is someone they can contact.
Use the templates below as a starting point. Replace every bracketed field and test the interview yourself before giving a time estimate. The messages are examples you can copy into your own communication process.
The first invitation
Copy and adapt
Subject: Next step for your [role] application at [company] Hi [first name], Thank you for applying for [role]. We would like to learn more about [specific skills or experience]. The next step is a short recorded interview with [number] questions: [formats, such as two video answers and one written response]. We tested the exercise and expect it to take about [minutes], including preparation. You can complete it by [date, time and time zone] at a time that works for you: [interview link] Before you start: [device requirements, preparation time and retake settings that apply to this interview]. [Named team or reviewers] will review your responses. We expect to send you an update by [date]. Details about how your information is handled are here: [privacy information]. If the format is difficult to access or you have a technical problem, reply to this email. [Contact person] will help you arrange the next step. Thank you, [name and role] [company]
Keep the explanation specific to the vacancy. If the step includes AI-assisted evaluation, explain its role and the review process accurately. Do not imply that every candidate has been shortlisted if this invitation goes to everyone who applies.
A reminder before the deadline
Copy and adapt
Subject: Reminder: [role] interview due [date] Hi [first name], A reminder that your recorded interview for [role] is due by [date, time and time zone]. Here is your link again: [interview link] If you still want to take part but need more time or another way to complete the step, reply to this email and we can discuss it. Thank you, [name]
Check the candidate’s status before sending this. A reminder after someone has already submitted makes the process look unattended. Do not add a new deadline that has not been agreed with the team.
An invitation to the live follow-up
Copy and adapt
Subject: Let’s discuss your [role] application Hi [first name], Thank you for completing the interview. We would like to invite you to a [duration] conversation with [names and roles]. We will discuss [relevant topics] and leave time for your questions about the role. [Scheduling instructions or proposed times with time zone.] You do not need to repeat your recorded answers. We may ask follow-up questions about [specific topic, if appropriate]. Please reply if there is anything we can arrange to make the conversation accessible. Thank you, [name]
Use the recorded responses to prepare for this conversation. If the next interviewer asks every screening question again, the candidate has done extra work without a clear purpose.
Send an update if review takes longer
Copy and adapt
Subject: Update on your [role] application Hi [first name], We have your completed interview. Our review is taking longer than planned, and we now expect to update you by [new date]. I am sorry for the delay. You do not need to complete anything else at this stage. If your availability changes, you can reach me by replying here. [name]
Give a date someone owns. If you cannot provide one, explain what you are waiting for and when you will send another update. A missed promise followed by silence creates more uncertainty than a short, direct message.
Check the message on a phone before sending it
- The company, role and sender are identifiable.
- The interview link opens the intended vacancy.
- The deadline includes a time zone.
- The time estimate includes preparation and all response formats.
- The retake and device instructions match the actual settings.
- A reply reaches someone who can help.
Hirevly sends candidates a browser-based interview link. Use your invitation to explain the purpose of that step and keep the reply channel staffed while the hiring round is open.
Putting this into practice?
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