Video interview

A video interview is a job interview that takes place using video conferencing software like Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, or a built-in hiring platform.

Homebase Team

Min Read

What is a video interview?

A video interview is a job interview that takes place using video conferencing software like Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, or a built-in hiring platform. It allows you to connect with candidates remotely—saving time, expanding your hiring reach, and creating a more flexible process.

For small business owners and hiring managers, video interviews can be a game changer. Whether you're looking to speed up hiring, reduce no-shows, or simply make your process more efficient, video interviews help you meet candidates faster without sacrificing quality. And if you're ready to simplify how you manage hiring from start to finish, sign up for Homebase to post jobs, schedule interviews, and onboard new hires with ease.

Why video interviews matter for small businesses

If you’re short on time or managing multiple roles, you know how tough it can be to coordinate in-person interviews. Video interviews offer several advantages:

Saves time and travel for both you and the candidate
Reduces no-shows by eliminating the need to meet in person
Speeds up hiring by allowing more flexible scheduling
Expands your talent pool to candidates who aren’t in your immediate area
Creates a consistent interview process by recording or standardizing questions

In industries where competition for workers is high and hiring needs to move fast, these benefits can be the difference between making a great hire—or missing out.

Types of video interviews

There are two main types of video interviews you might use:

Live video interviews – A real-time conversation between you and the candidate, just like a traditional interview but on screen.
Pre-recorded video interviews – You send candidates a list of questions, and they respond with recorded answers on their own schedule. This can be helpful for screening applicants before bringing them into a live conversation.

Both formats can work depending on your role, industry, and hiring timeline.

When to use video interviews

Video interviews are a smart option for:

Initial screenings – Use them to get a first impression before inviting someone for an in-person trial or shift shadow
High-volume hiring – Quickly narrow down a large applicant pool
Remote positions – Essential if the candidate won’t work on-site
Busy schedules – Easier to fit into your day when you can conduct them from your phone or laptop

Even if your final interview is in person, video interviews can help you get there faster.

How to run an effective video interview

Choose the right platform – Use tools like Zoom, Google Meet, or Homebase’s built-in scheduling and communication features
Test your tech – Check your camera, mic, lighting, and background before the call
Set expectations – Let candidates know how long the interview will last and what to prepare for
Keep it professional – Dress appropriately, stay on time, and reduce distractions
Ask consistent questions – Use a set list to compare candidates fairly
Take notes or record (with permission) – Helps you review candidates later

And don’t forget: your candidate is forming a first impression of your business, too. A well-run video interview reflects positively on your team and brand.

Common mistakes to avoid

Not preparing your questions ahead of time
Getting too casual just because the interview is remote
Talking too much – Give the candidate room to share their experience
Overlooking non-verbal cues – Pay attention to tone, body language, and engagement

The more structured your video interview process is, the easier it is to identify the right fit.

How Homebase helps with video interviews and hiring

Homebase streamlines the entire hiring process—from posting your job to bringing your new team member onboard. While you handle the interviews, we’ll help with everything around them.

With Homebase, you can:

Post open roles to top job boards and track applications
Set up interview schedules and reminders for both you and your candidates
Communicate via email and text directly from your dashboard
Manage offer letters, forms, and onboarding materials once you’ve made a hire

Explore Homebase’s Hiring & onboarding tools to speed up your process, reduce manual work, and connect with top candidates more efficiently—whether you're interviewing face-to-face or screen-to-screen.

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