This is the second of five articles in our series on DEI and Video Recruitment, if you'd like to get similar articles weekly in your inbox, before they go public on our site, sign up for our mailing list here!

‍If you’re interested, check out the first article, Introduction to Emerging Trends in DEI and Video Technology in Recruitment.

This series is based on a Webinar we did, in partnership with Employ, it featured speakers Tameka McNair, an HR Director at Microsoft, and Jadey Ryndak, a self-employed Senior Recruitment Consultant, and was moderated by our very own Matt Baxter. The focus of the discussion was on the utilization of video technology to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in hiring and recruitment practices. 

Watch the Webinar here!

The Current Landscape of Video Technology in Recruitment

The world of recruitment is witnessing a significant transformation, driven by the integration of video technology, particularly asynchronous interviews. This advancement is reshaping how companies connect with potential employees, making the process more inclusive and far-reaching. 

Redefining Interviews with Asynchronous Video Technology

Asynchronous video interviews, where candidates record their responses at their convenience, are rapidly becoming a staple in modern recruitment. In the webinar, our experts remarked about the role of asynchronous interviews and virtual interviews in democratizing the hiring process, allowing candidates from various time zones and schedules to participate equally. This level of flexibility is not just a convenience; it's a critical tool in expanding the reach to a more diverse candidate pool.

The Critical Need for HR to Embrace Video Technology

For HR professionals, adapting to video technology is no longer optional but a necessity to remain competitive. Matt Baxter highlighted the urgency of this shift in the webinar, stating, “In a world where remote work is becoming the norm, not adapting to video technology in recruitment is like turning a blind eye to talent evolution.” This adaptation is essential for tapping into a broader talent pool and aligning with the expectations of a digitally savvy candidate base.

The Dual-edged Sword of AI in Recruitment

While AI in video interviewing offers remarkable efficiency in screening candidates, it brings forth its own set of challenges. AI can significantly streamline the hiring process and aid in identifying the most suitable candidates from a large pool. During the webinar, McNair and Ryndak were sure to point out the need for caution in using AI, while it can bring objectivity to the hiring process, it is vital to be vigilant about inherent biases in these systems. Balancing the efficiency of AI with the need for fairness and unbiased assessment is crucial to maintain DEI in recruitment practices.

Illustrating the Impact with Real-World Data

The real-world impact of asynchronous video interviews is evident in the broader geographic reach and diversity in recruitment. Companies utilizing these technologies report an enhanced ability to engage with candidates from various regions and backgrounds. For example, one of our customers, a multinational corporation, found that incorporating Wedge video interviews in their hiring process allowed them to connect with talents on a different continent from the hiring team, which significantly enriched their hiring efficiency and workforce diversity. 

Navigating the New Era of Recruitment

The evolving landscape of video technology in recruitment, particularly with asynchronous interviews and AI integration, is setting new standards in how companies approach talent acquisition. For HR professionals, understanding and adapting to these trends is not just about staying competitive; it’s about fostering a workplace that values diversity and inclusivity. As we progress, balancing technological advancements with ethical considerations and human-centric practices will be key to achieving fairness and diversity in our hiring processes.