Video interviews provide a dynamic way to assess freelancers, offering you a sense of their personality, professionalism, and fit for your project beyond what a written proposal can convey. Platforms like eFrelance enable clients to connect with freelancers through video, allowing real-time communication and deeper insights into their skills, work ethic, and communication style. Here are some effective practices for conducting productive video interviews that help you select the best candidate for the job.
1. Prepare Key Questions in Advance
Preparation is essential for a successful video interview. Outline specific questions that address both technical skills and soft skills relevant to the project. Consider starting with questions about their experience with similar projects, which not only opens the conversation but provides immediate context for their capabilities. For a deeper look into clarifying project scope, refer to this insightful Medium article, which highlights the importance of alignment in project expectations.
When discussing budget, timeline, or specialized skills, explore this guide on setting realistic budget expectations for freelancers, which can help clarify financial considerations early on.
2. Use the Interview to Confirm Project Scope Understanding
One of the main objectives of a video interview is to ensure that the freelancer fully understands your project requirements and scope. Questions like, “How would you tackle [specific task]?” and “What steps would you take to meet our timeline?” help you gauge their strategic approach and attention to detail. By assessing their understanding, you can avoid future misunderstandings and ensure they’re aligned with the project goals from the start.
For further guidance on defining and communicating your project’s scope, check out this eFrelance guide, which emphasizes the importance of clear project boundaries for a smoother collaboration.
3. Evaluate Their Communication Skills and Professionalism
Video interviews are an excellent opportunity to assess a freelancer’s communication style and professionalism. Pay attention to how they answer questions, maintain eye contact, and address project concerns. Ask them questions like, “How would you communicate project updates or setbacks?” to determine their openness and transparency. Good communication is essential, especially for complex projects, so confirming their style is compatible with your expectations is crucial for a seamless workflow.
“Effective communication is the backbone of successful projects. Building this foundation from the interview stage is essential to achieve smooth collaboration.”
4. Clarify Expectations for Communication and Deadlines
It’s vital to set expectations for communication, including frequency, preferred channels, and response times. Inquire about their typical availability, preferred communication tools, and their approach to deadlines. Asking questions such as, “How often do you provide project updates?” or “How do you manage client feedback and revisions?” gives you insights into their reliability and workflow adaptability. Consider reviewing this guide on setting expectations for communication for tips on establishing communication standards with freelancers.
5. Watch for Red Flags
While video interviews reveal a lot about a freelancer’s strengths, they can also highlight potential red flags. Be mindful of indicators such as vague responses, lack of confidence, or hesitancy when asked about past projects. A video interview provides a clearer view into a freelancer’s demeanor and work ethic, helping you to make an informed decision.
6. Ask for Their Input on Your Project Approach
A successful freelancer often brings valuable insights and fresh perspectives. Wrap up the interview by asking if they have any questions or suggestions for your project. Their response will indicate whether they’ve thought critically about your project and how invested they might be in its success.
For more ideas on managing large-scale projects, check out eFrelance’s guide on managing freelancer proposals to ensure a streamlined selection process.
7. Finalizing the Selection Process
After conducting interviews with shortlisted freelancers, compare notes on their strengths, compatibility, and feedback. Video interviews make it easier to remember each candidate’s unique attributes, helping you make a well-rounded decision.
