How to Provide Interview Feedback after Pre-recorded Video Interview

Structuring Interview Feedback: The “Sandwich” Method

The "Sandwich" method strikes a balance in feedback delivery, especially important when face-to-face interaction is replaced by digital communication. Start with a genuine acknowledgment of the candidate's strengths to set a positive tone. Then carefully weave in constructive insights to help the candidate understand areas for growth without feeling disheartened. Conclude the interview feedback by reaffirming their strong points and reinforcing the message that their efforts are valued and there's confidence in their potential for success.

Starting with Positive Feedback

To acknowledge the candidate's efforts and encourage them for future growth, it's best to start your feedback with a focus on the candidate's strengths. Highlighting their specific achievements not only affirms their abilities but also helps them understand how these strengths could be an asset to your team.

Identify Their Strengths

Begin by pinpointing specific strengths displayed during the candidate’s performance. This could be their clear and articulate communication, the insightfulness of their answers, or a particularly professional demeanor on camera.

Example

“Your communication skills were impressive; you articulated your thoughts clearly and with confidence.”

Personalize Your Commendations

Offer personalized praise based on the candidate’s unique attributes displayed in the interview.

Example

“The narrative you presented about overcoming challenges at your previous job was engaging and conveyed your problem-solving skills well.”

Provide Contextual Positive Feedback

Relate the strengths to the job role or the company's values to show the candidate's potential fit.

Example

 “Your innovative approach to the hypothetical scenarios aligns well with our company’s culture of creative problem-solving.”

Acknowledge Their Effort

Make it clear that you recognize and appreciate the time and effort they invested in completing the pre-recorded interview.

Example

“We appreciate the effort you put into preparing for the interview; it's evident in the thoughtful examples you provided.”

Delivering Constructive Criticism in Interview Feedback

Hearing constructive criticism helps candidates understand the gaps in their interview performance and how they can improve. If possible, you should provide the candidate with clear directions for development that are directly tied to the job's requirements and the organization's expectations. The manner in which you convey the feedback can greatly influence a candidate's ability to use it constructively, which is why it should be communicated with care and precision.

Isolate Areas for Improvement

After acknowledging the candidate's strengths, it's time to focus on specific areas where there's room for improvement. Pinpoint the exact aspects of their interview performance that could be enhanced, tying these back to job requirements or success factors relevant to the position they've applied for.

Example

“While your answers were detailed, tightening them up to be more concise could help in maintaining the listener's engagement throughout.”

Balance Criticism with Encouragement

When delivering critiques, it's important to frame them in a way that encourages the candidate. Make it clear that you see these as areas where they can grow, which could make them an even stronger candidate either for your company or elsewhere in their career.

Example

“You have a strong grasp of the technical aspects we’re looking for. Focusing a bit more on how you apply these in team settings can bring out the full strength of your technical skills.”

Stay Job-Centric

Ensure that the feedback stays focused on professional skills and job-related competencies. Avoid straying into personal attributes that aren’t relevant to the job performance.

Example

“Your approach to problem-solving is solid, but incorporating more examples of team collaboration could further demonstrate your fit for our company’s collaborative culture.”

Encourage Development

Suggest ways the candidate might develop the skills or knowledge needed, possibly recommending resources or actions they could take.

Example

To enhance your project management skills, which are crucial for this role, you might find it beneficial to explore the latest industry-standard methodologies like Agile or Scrum.”

Provide Context for Criticism

Help the candidate understand why certain skills or behaviors are critical for the role, linking back to what makes someone successful in the job.

Example

“Our most successful team members are adept at condensing complex information quickly, which is why we emphasize brevity in communication.”

Ending with Positive Reinforcement:

Ending feedback sessions with positive reinforcement helps cement a candidate’s confidence and leaves them with a lasting impression of encouragement. The goal is to ensure that candidates feel motivated and clear about their potential to grow and succeed in their career path.

Encourage Continued Growth

Finish the feedback by encouraging candidates to build on their strengths and continue developing their skills. Offer them encouragement to persist and reassurance that continuous growth is both recognized and valued.

Example

“Your ability to connect your experiences to the role’s requirements was excellent. Continue to hone this skill, as it is highly valuable in our industry.”

Highlight Progress Potential

Make it clear that while there are areas to improve, the candidate has a strong base to grow from, and that their potential has been noted.

Example

“Based on the analytical skills you’ve demonstrated, further developing your data presentation abilities could greatly amplify your impact.”

Reaffirm Interest

If the candidate is still in consideration for the role or for future opportunities, make sure to reiterate that their candidacy is taken seriously and that the feedback provided is part of the company’s commitment to their professional development.

Example

“We see a lot of potential in your profile, and we believe that with some refinement in the areas mentioned, you could be a great fit for our team.”

Provide a Motivating Close

End the feedback on a motivating note that inspires the candidate to use the feedback constructively, whether for immediate improvement or long-term career development.

Example

“Your enthusiasm and industry knowledge are impressive, and we're certain that with your dedication, you’ll continue to make significant strides in your career.”

Suggest Next Steps

Offer suggestions on what the candidate can do next, whether that's applying the feedback to future interviews or seeking specific professional development opportunities.

Example

“Consider joining a professional workshop on strategic communication; it could be an excellent next step in enhancing the skills we discussed.”

Express Gratitude

Close by thanking the candidate once again for their time and effort in applying and interviewing with the company.

Example

“We appreciate the energy and thought you have put into this process. Thank you for your interest in our company and for the opportunity to learn more about your qualifications.”

Establishing and Maintaining Good Communication with Candidates

In recruitment, clear and prompt communication forms the backbone of candidate engagement and ensures that they stay informed and connected. In this section, we collected practical steps to enhance communication during recruitment, focusing on directness, efficiency, and a personalized touch that candidates will remember.

Set a professional tone:

Be specific from the start 

Clarify how you intend to contact candidates during the hiring process. For example, you can provide your contact information in the introductory part of the pre recorded video interview.

Respond quickly to candidate messages

Applicants can be anxious.Try to address all of the applicants' questions and concerns as soon as possible to keep them at ease.

Use a variety of communication methods, such as email and messenger apps 

While some recruiters prefer to stick to email only, it is generally a good idea to also use messenger apps. This way, you can ensure that you will not fall out of contact with your prospective employees.

Provide Information Regarding Next Steps and Expected Timelines

Describe the following stages of the hiring process

Explain the next steps candidates will go through, such as in-person/offline interviews or background and reference checks.

Set an approximate date for the announcement of the screening interview results

Inform candidates when they can expect to hear from you. Depending on the number of applications, the amount of time required to review them may vary, but providing applicants with an estimated date will help them organize their schedules.

Describe in detail the decision-making procedure

Do not hold out on the information regarding what criteria and factors will play a major role in your decision. By clearly stating the skills and qualifications you consider essential for the role, you will increase your chances of correctly identifying the talent your company needs. This will also help candidates assess their chances objectively.

Keep the applicants informed

If there are any changes or delays regarding the original announcement date, be sure to contact the candidates. This way, you will demonstrate respect for their time and help alleviate any anxiety or uncertainty they may have.

Use Automation Tools, But Add Personal Touch

Utilize email templates

Use ready-to-go or create custom email templates to communicate in a concise way when confirming an interview, acknowledging applications, and providing status updates. 

Don’t overlook scheduling tools

In order to eliminate the hassle of finding mutually convenient times to conduct live interviews with applicants, try using apps or platforms that allow candidates to select free interview slots themselves. It is also a great tool to use while organizing the recruitment schedule and will help save time for both recruiters and candidates.

Personalize your messages to add a human touch

While it is perfectly ok to use previously made templates, remember to personalize your messages. Address candidates by their name, reference parts of their CVs or recorded video interviews, and express genuine interest in their candidacy. Adding a personal touch will show that you value their individuality and approach the screening process thoroughly.

Provide a Positive Candidate Experience:

Good manners

A general rule of thumb for providing a good applicant experience would be to treat them with respect and empathy throughout the hiring process. Acknowledge the effort they put into the interviews and show appreciation for their interest in the position.

Provide clear instructions

Make sure that candidates have a clear understanding of what is expected of them during the screening interview. State the optimal length of responses, what they should wear, and general tips on how to approach the interview.

Create a welcoming environment in the introductory video 

Ensure that your introduction is well-made and creates an overall appealing impression. Your introduction will set the tone that candidates will try to match during the interview. 

Technical aspects and troubleshooting: 

Provide instructions or resources that would help candidates resolve any technical issues they may encounter during the recording. Provide contact information or a support channel they can reach out to for assistance.

Follow up with candidates even if they don’t make it to the next stage

Give applicants the courtesy of providing feedback and updates even if they are not selected. This way, you will show your desire to maintain relationships and leave a positive impression of your company.

Final Advice

By following these recommendations, you can ensure a smooth and engaging experience for candidates participating in pre-recorded video interviews. Remember, each candidate is unique, so tailoring your approach and communication to their individual needs and qualifications can greatly enhance their experience and reflect positively on your business.