I recently applied for a job as a part time personal trainer and also as a full time executive assistant.

7 Comments

1. AnonymousFebruary 22,2024 at 5:54PM UTC

   I have nothing to say other than this is interesting, I was not aware places were doing this

2. AnonymousFebruary 22,2024 at 6:08PM UTC

   I avoid these. I feel it's to screen applicants based on looks. Eventually that will probably happen, but it shouldn't immediately

3. Cara GardnerFebruary 24,2024 at 3:11PM UTC

   100% agree it is very awkward. I sent and the few days later got the rejection email. So basically they judge you and you don't have a chance to explain yourself because they assume talking to a camera is same as answering in-person.

   I am not a fan of these video questions and hope it doesn't become a regular trend.

4. J McGovernFebruary 24,2024 at 3:18PM UTC

   I’ve applied for a few jobs that offered that in lieu of a cover letter, but I considered that as a way to be more inclusive. This accommodates people with different strengths.

   However…

   To require it reeks of discrimination based on age, race, ethnicity, looks, disability, and likely more. That’s why photos on resumes went away.

   Personally, if I came across one that required a video upfront, I’d steer clear. I hate to think this is becoming a thing.

5. TinaFebruary 26,2024 at 12:26AM UTC

   I’ve seen and heard of a number of companies doing this.
   Before working for myself, I submitted a number of videos as a 50+ woman and was moved to the next step. I can’t say that’s the case for all companies requesting videos, but here are my thoughts based on having submitted videos and worked for a company that requested videos from applicants.

   It’s a way for companies to quickly evaluate a candidate’s ability to follow directions and communicate. With so many applications, it’s a quick way to quickly decide if they want to move a candidate to the next step or not.

   First, it’s a way for them to evaluate your ability to follow directions. Do you include all the info they want? If not, most will immediately eliminate you.

   Next, how clearly do you communicate? Do you get to the point or do you ramble, say um/ah? I recommend putting together your story and your notes and staying focused on that.

   They’ll also be evaluating your actual answers. When I was hiring, so many people said in response to why they wanted the job “because it’s remote.” No company wants to hear that’s why you want the job. What excites you about the job and company and why are you a fit?

6. Me!February 26,2024 at 4:42PM UTC

   Personality I prefer a conversation as it provides a chance for me to gain information and requires mutual effort from both the company and interviewer.
   The videos are incredibly impersonal which does not allow for some applicants to shine.

7. AnonymousFebruary 27,2024 at 2:03PM UTC

   I haven't run across anything like this yet, but I am not a fan either. My age, ethnicity, and gender are readily apparent. Besides that, I have a deep speaking voice, so some people either misgender me or make assumptions about my sexuality that are wrong. If they want to see my face and hear my voice, they can schedule a dialogue, either by phone, Zoom, or in person. Otherwise, I will pass as this screams that the company is not interested in diversity.