One-way or asynchronous video interviews are now a standard stage in many graduate and internship recruitment processes. Instead of speaking to a person, you record your answers to pre-set questions on a platform like HireVue, Spark Hire, or Sonru. You are typically given a few seconds to prepare and a fixed time to respond. This guide explains how they work, how they are assessed, and how to prepare effectively.
What is a one-way video interview?
A one-way video interview presents you with a question on screen. You are given a short preparation window (usually 30–60 seconds) and a response window (typically 1–3 minutes). Your answer is recorded and reviewed later by a recruiter — either manually or, increasingly, by an AI screening tool. There is no live interviewer, no back-and-forth, and no ability to ask clarifying questions in the moment.
Common platforms
HireVue is used by Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Unilever, and many others. Spark Hire and Sonru are common in public sector and SME recruitment. Some employers build their own systems. Most platforms include a practice round — always use it. Check that your camera, microphone, and internet connection work before the real attempt.
How your answers are assessed
Larger employers using HireVue may use AI analysis of your facial expressions, speech patterns, and word choices alongside — or instead of — human review. This is controversial, but understanding it helps you prepare: speak clearly, maintain consistent eye contact with the camera (not the screen), and structure your answers coherently. Even where AI is not used, the recruiter is watching multiple candidates back-to-back and forming a quick impression.
Preparing your environment
Choose a quiet, well-lit space where you will not be interrupted. Natural light from a window in front of you (not behind you) is ideal — it prevents a silhouette effect. If natural light is insufficient, position a lamp in front of you. Keep the background clean and neutral. Position the camera at eye level. Dress as you would for a face-to-face interview.
Structuring your answers
Most questions in one-way interviews are either motivational ("Why do you want to work at [firm]?") or competency-based ("Tell me about a time you worked in a team"). Use the same STAR structure as a face-to-face interview, but be more concise — you are typically limited to 90 seconds to two minutes. Practise speaking to time. One good, well-structured answer is better than a long, rambling one.
The technical practice round
Every platform includes a practice question. Use it fully — not just to test your equipment, but to experience the timer pressure and find your comfortable speaking pace. Watch the practice recording back. Most people speak faster when nervous — consciously slow down. Check that you are maintaining eye contact with the camera lens, not the thumbnail of your own face.
On the day: mindset and performance
The absence of a live interviewer removes the social cues that help in conversation, which many candidates find disorienting. Combat this by smiling naturally at the start of each answer, speaking slightly more slowly than you would in person, and using a brief verbal structure opener ("I'll answer this using an example from my time at...") to give yourself a moment to settle. After each answer, pause briefly before moving to the next question.
Checklist
- Tested camera, microphone, and internet connection in advance
- Completed the practice round on the actual platform
- Prepared STAR examples for common competency questions
- Prepared a specific "Why this company?" answer
- Set up a clean, well-lit space with camera at eye level
- Dressed as for a face-to-face interview
Common mistakes to avoid
- Looking at your own thumbnail rather than the camera lens
- Leaving the practice round until the last second
- Speaking too fast due to nerves
- Not using a clear structure — answers trail off without a result
- Poor lighting (sitting with a window behind you)