One-way video interview emails are often the first touchpoint between your hiring team and a candidate. These messages set expectations, provide instructions, and help candidates feel comfortable with the process. As video interviews become more common—especially for early-stage screening—clarity and tone matter.
In fact, 92% of candidates prefer video interviews over phone screenings because of the added flexibility. Instead of scheduling a live call, candidates receive a link to record their responses on their own time. A well-crafted email template ensures they know what to expect and feel confident moving forward.
What is a one-way video interview?
A one-way video interview, also called an asynchronous video interview, is a type of interview where candidates record responses to pre-set questions. There is no live conversation. Candidates answer questions by recording their responses using a video platform. They can complete the interview at any time before the deadline.
Hiring teams later review the recorded videos. The process allows recruiters to evaluate each candidate's answers without needing to schedule a specific interview time.
This format is becoming more common in hiring processes for roles across different industries. Organizations using asynchronous video interviews achieve a 50% reduction in time-to-hire and 30% decrease in recruitment costs.
Why use one-way video interviews for hiring?
One-way video interviews help reduce the time spent on scheduling. Recruiters can watch responses when they are available, without coordinating calendars with candidates.
This format allows more candidates to be considered. Interview invites can be sent to a large group at once, which supports broader screening.
The same set of questions is given to each candidate. This makes it easier to compare responses and helps reduce bias in the evaluation process.
- Time flexibility: Candidates can complete the interview on their own time, which works well for people with other commitments.
- Consistent process: Each candidate receives the same instructions and questions.
- Wider reach: Companies can send interview invites to many applicants without making their process more complex.
Key components of a one-way video interview invite
An effective one-way video interview invitation email contains specific details that help candidates understand the process and complete their responses correctly.
1. Deadline
A deadline tells the candidate when the interview must be completed. This helps keep the hiring timeline organized. Most companies allow 3–5 days for completion. If extensions are possible, the email can mention that option.
2. Platform access
Access details help the candidate log in to the platform where they will record their interview. The email typically includes:
- The platform name (such as Truffle)
- A direct link to the interview
- A suggestion to test the link before starting
- Technical requirements like browser type or device compatibility
3. Instructions and support
Instructions explain how the automated interview works. These may include how many questions will be asked, any time limits, and whether the candidate can practice before recording.
Support information includes an email or phone number for technical help. The message may also link to FAQ pages or help centers.
A sample email interview invitation includes these elements to reduce confusion and support the candidate through the process.
4. Contact person info
Including a contact person makes the process more transparent. The invitation lists the name, email address, and how long it usually takes to receive a response. It also tells candidates how to ask questions and what kind of replies they can expect.
How to format your one-way video interview invite
Before using templates, keep these writing guidelines in mind:
- Use language that matches your company's tone and culture
- Format emails so they are easy to read on mobile devices
- Keep each email template to invite for interview clear and actionable
1. Subject line clarity
Effective subject lines include:
- "Invitation: One-Way Video Interview for [Job Title]"
- "Your Next Step: Complete a Video Interview with [Company]"
- "Interview Invite: [Company] One-Way Video Interview Instructions"
These subject lines work because they are direct and mention the interview type. Avoid using words like "urgent" or "free." Keep subject lines short—under 60 characters.
2. Personal greeting
Personalized greetings increase relevance and set a clear tone. Examples include:
- "Dear [First Name],"
- "Hello [First Name],"
Avoid generic greetings such as "To whom it may concern." When sending in bulk, use personalization features to insert each candidate's name automatically.
3. Clear instructions
Write the steps using bullet points or numbered lists. This helps organize the information.
Example of a clear format:
- "Click the link below to access your interview."
- "You will answer 5 questions, each with a 2-minute time limit."
Highlight key actions with bold text to improve visibility.
4. Tone and company branding
The tone of the message should match the company's industry and communication style.
- Formal tone: "We are pleased to invite you..."
- Casual tone: "We're excited to get to know you!"
Use consistent branding elements such as standard sign-offs and logos. Only include technical terms if they are widely recognized by the audience.
5 email template examples to invite for one-way video interviews
Each template can be customized for your company and role. For every template, the following elements are included:
1. Formal tone
Sample email:
Subject: Interview Invite: One-Way Video Interview for [Job Title]
Dear [First Name],
We are pleased to invite you to the next stage of our recruitment process for the [Job Title] position at [Company]. Please complete a one-way video interview by [Deadline].
[Platform link and instructions]
Should you have any questions, contact [Contact Person].
Sincerely,[Your Name]
When to use: Traditional industries (finance, law, etc.)
2. Casual tone
Sample email:
Subject: Your [Company] Video Interview Awaits!
Hi [First Name],
Thanks for applying! We'd love to get to know you better through a quick one-way video interview. Please finish it by [Deadline].
[Platform link and instructions]
Questions? Just reply to this email.
Cheers,[Your Name]
When to use: Startups, creative industries
3. Technical role focus
Sample email:
Subject: Interview Invites: Technical Video Interview for [Job Title]
Dear [First Name],
As part of our process, please complete a one-way video interview focused on your technical skills. You'll answer 3 coding questions and 2 scenario-based questions.
[Platform link and instructions]
Reach out to [Contact Person] for technical support.
Regards,[Your Name]
When to use: Engineering, IT, or data roles
4. Entry-level role focus
Sample email:
Subject: Interview Invite: Entry-Level Video Interview Opportunity
Hi [First Name],
Congratulations on moving forward! Please complete a one-way video interview by [Deadline]. We've included detailed instructions to help you succeed.
[Platform link and instructions]
If you have questions, contact [Contact Person].
Good luck![Your Name]
When to use: Recent graduates, entry-level roles
5. High-volume hiring
Sample email:
Subject: Sample Email Interview Invitation: Next Steps with [Company]
Dear [First Name],
Thank you for your interest in [Job Title]. To streamline our process, we invite you to complete a one-way video interview by [Deadline].
[Platform link and instructions]
For help, contact [Contact Person].
Best,[Your Name]
When to use: Retail, seasonal, or mass hiring
Best practices for interview invites
Interview invites inform candidates about the next steps in a hiring process. These messages include instructions, timelines, and support contacts. The following practices help maintain clarity across all interview communication.
PracticeEffective ExampleIneffective ExampleClear instructions"Click the link and answer 5 questions by Friday.""Please do the interview soon."Personalization"Hi [First Name],""Dear Candidate,"Support info"Contact [Name] at [Email] for help."No contact providedDeadline"Complete by June 10, 2025."No deadline given
1. Keep the email short
The recommended length for an interview invite is 150–200 words. Include only essential parts: the job title, the interview type, the deadline, the instructions, and the contact person. Avoid adding long company descriptions or unnecessary background information.
2. Provide clear next steps
State what happens after the candidate submits their interview. For example: "After you submit, we'll review and contact you within 7 days." Include expected timelines to help candidates understand the review process.
3. Use reminders
A reminder email is sent 24 to 48 hours before the interview deadline. An example message might be: "Just a reminder to complete your one-way video interview by [Deadline]." Reminders are brief and polite.
4. Check for spam triggers
Common email spam triggers include words like "Free," "Act now," or "Congratulations." Before sending, test the email using a tool that checks for spam risk. Avoid using ALL CAPS or excessive punctuation in subject lines or body text.
What if candidates need help or cannot complete the interview?
Some candidates may face issues that prevent them from completing a one-way video interview. These situations can be addressed directly in the interview invites to help avoid confusion or delays.
It is common for candidates to encounter technical problems, scheduling challenges, or accessibility concerns. Being clear about available solutions helps maintain fairness across the hiring process.
1. Alternative methods
If a candidate cannot complete the video interview, the hiring team can offer other formats such as a phone call or a live video interview.
A sample sentence to include in the interview invite is:"If you are unable to complete the video interview, please let us know to discuss alternative arrangements."
This option ensures that all candidates have a way to participate, even if the primary format is not accessible for them.
2. Extended deadlines
Technical issues or personal emergencies may require a deadline extension. The hiring team can offer additional time when appropriate.
A sample line to include in the interview invite is:"If you need more time, reply to this email to request an extension."
Tracking deadline changes helps keep the hiring process organized and ensures all candidates are evaluated within the same context.
3. Technical support
Candidates may face login errors, browser issues, or trouble submitting their recordings. Including support resources in the sample email interview invitation can help resolve these problems quickly.
A basic troubleshooting message to include is:"Try using Chrome or Firefox and check your internet connection."
Adding a support contact, such as an email address or phone number, gives the candidate a way to ask for help.
Frequently asked questions about one-way video interview invites
How do I handle candidate privacy concerns in one-way video interviews?
Include a clear explanation of your data protection policies in the interview invitation. State how the recorded responses will be stored, who will have access, and how long they will be kept.
Can I combine one-way video interviews with other interview formats?
One-way video interviews can be included as one part of a larger hiring process. They are often used before phone screenings, live video calls, or in-person interviews as an early-stage screening tool.
What if a candidate does not respond to the one-way video interview invitation?
Send one reminder message if the deadline is approaching and the candidate has not submitted a response. If no response is received after that, move forward with other candidates to keep the process on schedule.
How can I make my one-way video interview invitations more accessible?
Mention in the invitation that accommodations are available for candidates with accessibility needs. This may include offering the interview in a different format, such as a phone call or typed responses, or allowing extra time.
Should I personalize each one-way video interview invitation?
Using the candidate's name and referring to the specific job title creates a more direct and clear message. Personalization tools can help automate this process when sending interview invites to many candidates at once.
