Job interviews are already nerve-wracking enough. Now imagine having to record your answers alone, with no real-time human interaction. That’s exactly what happens in a one-way interview. This pre-recorded interview type is becoming more common, but it can feel impersonal and even awkward.
Some candidates wonder if an employer that won’t make time to meet them deserves their effort. However, one-way interviews can also be an opportunity—if you know how to approach them correctly. We’ll break down what they are, why employers use them, and how to ace them.
The more interviews you land, the more options you have—check open jobs on The Muse to find your next opportunity »
What is a one-way interview?
A one-way interview (also known as a pre-recorded interview) is a job interview where candidates answer a set of pre-determined questions via video without a live interviewer present. Instead of speaking to a recruiter or hiring manager in real-time, you’ll record your responses within a given timeframe, and the employer will review them later.
There's also the type of one-way video interview where there's no human involvement at all. The one-way interview can be fully conducted and analyzed by artificial intelligence (AI), and the machine will decide which candidates move forward to the next (human) round. AI-conducted one-way interviews raise a major red flag for hiring biases, as studies have shown the technology can be formatted in a discriminatory way towards appearance, race, and gender.
Why are companies doing one-way video interviews?
Employers love saving time, so they may opt for a one-way video interview to streamline the hiring process, especially for roles with lots of applicants. One-way video interviews allow them to assess candidates efficiently in the initial round before moving forward with live conversations. “It's also a way to assess how candidates present themselves and respond under pressure, which can be crucial for positions that require strong communication skills,” says Kevandre Thompson, senior talent acquisition partner at Innomotics.
What are the pros and cons of one-way interviews?
One-way interviews aren’t for everyone, and candidates have mixed feelings about them.
Potential pros of one-way interviews
- You can complete the interview at your convenience
- No need to deal with scheduling conflicts
- You can do multiple takes (if permitted) to perfect your answers
Potential cons of one-way interviews
- No real-time interaction means no opportunity to ask questions or clarify
- Can feel robotic and impersonal
- Not ideal for those who perform better in live conversations
Why are one-way interviews so hard?
“I understand why candidates may feel frustrated by one-way interviews—I get frustrated with them too,” Thompson says. “They can feel impersonal and leave room for unconscious bias in the evaluation process, especially since there is no opportunity for a live, dynamic exchange.”
Without the benefit of real-time feedback, it’s tough to know if your answers are resonating, which can add to the pressure. The strict time limits set by many platforms can also make it hard to fully express your thoughts and feelings. Plus, speaking to a camera without any immediate feedback can feel awkward and unnatural.
Pre-recorded video interview tips: How to prepare
Without real-time feedback or interaction, you’ll need to make sure your responses in one-way video interviews are clear, concise, and confident.
“Treat a one-way interview just like any other: Prepare thoroughly,” Thompson says. “Remember to smile and engage with the camera to convey warmth. Even though it’s a video format, you should still aim for the same level of professionalism as you would in an in-person or live virtual interview.”
Here’s how to get ready for a pre-recorded video interview:
- Test your tech. Ensure your camera, microphone, and internet connection are working.
- Choose a quiet, well-lit space. Your background should be tidy, and distractions minimized.
- Dress professionally. Even though you’re at home, first impressions matter. (Here’s what to wear to an interview, including outfit tips and mistakes to avoid.)
- Practice your timing. Many platforms limit response time, so rehearse answering questions within a set timeframe.
- Look at the camera. This helps create the feeling of eye contact and engagement.
How to answer one-way interview questions
Answering questions in a one-way interview can feel unnatural. Without an interviewer reacting to your responses, you must bring energy and clarity to your delivery.
So, if you’re wondering what to say in a one-way interview, here’s how to approach it:
- Stay structured. Use frameworks like STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep answers organized. (Here’s how to use this technique to ace your next interview.)
- Speak clearly and concisely. Avoid rambling; get to the point.
- Show personality. Even without human interaction, let your enthusiasm for the role shine.
- Re-record wisely. If given multiple attempts, use them strategically without overanalyzing every response.
Common pre-recorded video interview questions and answers
Common one-way video interview questions mirror those in traditional interviews, but with an added challenge: time constraints. Here’s how to answer them effectively:
“Tell me about yourself”
This is your chance to make a strong first impression. So, how do you introduce yourself in a one-way interview? Keep it concise—30-45 seconds is ideal. Structure your answer as follows:
- Who you are: “I’m a marketing specialist with five years of experience in digital campaigns.”
- What you do: “In my current role at X company, I manage social media strategy and content creation.”
- Why you’re here: “I’m excited about this opportunity because your company’s focus on brand storytelling aligns with my passion for content marketing.”
For extra guidance, read this next: How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” in an Interview (Examples Included!)
“Why do you want to work for us?”
Employers want to know if you’ve researched their company. Highlight specific aspects that excite you:
- Mention a company value or mission that resonates with you.
- Discuss how your skills align with their needs.
- Keep it under one minute.
Need a deeper dive? Read this next: 4 Better Ways to Answer “Why Do You Want to Work at This Company?”
“Describe a challenge you’ve faced at work and how you handled it”
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result):
- Situation: “At my previous job, a major client was unhappy with our campaign results.”
- Task: “I needed to quickly identify the issue and find a solution.”
- Action: “I gathered analytics, pinpointed engagement drop-offs, and adjusted our approach.”
- Result: “The client saw a 20% improvement in engagement, and we retained their business.”
Want more targeted advice? Read this next: How to Answer “What Is the Biggest Challenge You’ve Faced?” in an Interview
FAQs
Are one-way interviews legit?
Yes, but not all employers use them effectively. Some companies rely on them too heavily, making candidates feel undervalued. If you’re asked to complete one, research the company to ensure it’s reputable and that the role aligns with your career goals.
Should you do a one-way interview?
One-way interviews aren’t perfect, but they’re increasingly common. If a company you’re genuinely interested in asks you to complete one, it’s worth giving it your best effort. But if the process feels overly impersonal and makes you question whether the employer values candidates’ time, it’s OK to trust your instincts. At the end of the day, a job interview should be a two-way street of interest, time, and commitment.
Is a one-way interview a good sign?
Not necessarily. While being invited to a one-way interview means you’re being considered for the job, it doesn’t indicate strong interest from the employer. It’s often a first-round screening method used for efficiency rather than personalization. However, if you do well, it can lead to a more engaging next step.