Complete guide to one-way and live video interviews -- setup, structure, AI scoring factors, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Is HireVue and How Does It Work?
HireVue and similar platforms present pre-recorded questions you answer on video, alone, with a timer. Your recording is reviewed by recruiters -- and often scored by AI before any human sees it.
The AI typically scores on:
•Facial expressions and eye contact
•Speech clarity and pace
•Word choice and relevant keywords
•Confidence indicators (posture, filler words)
Technical Setup (Non-Negotiable)
•Lighting: Face a window or use a ring light. Light in front of you, not behind.
•Background: Clean, neutral. Virtual backgrounds look poor on AI scoring -- use a real wall.
•Camera: Eye level. Stack books if needed. Never look down at a laptop camera.
•Audio: Use earbuds with a mic. Quiet room. Test for echo.
•Internet: Wired connection or full WiFi signal. Aim for 10+ Mbps upload.
Do a full test run with the platform before the real session.
Structuring Your Answers
Duration: Most questions have a 2-3 minute limit. Aim for 90-120 seconds.
Structure:
•15 sec: Direct answer to the question
•60-75 sec: STAR story (situation, action, result)
•15 sec: What you learned or how it applies to this role
The Keyword Problem
HireVue AI scans transcripts for relevant vocabulary. If the job description mentions "cross-functional collaboration" or specific tech stacks -- say those phrases naturally in your answers.
Eye Contact in One-Way Video
Look at the camera lens, not your own face on screen. Put a small sticky arrow pointing at the lens as a reminder.
Common Mistakes
•Rambling past the time limit (gets cut off abruptly)
•Looking down or to the side while thinking
•Excessive filler words ("um," "like") -- pause instead