Is more always better? How preparation time and re-recording opportunities impact fairness, anxiety, impression management, and performance in asynchronous video interviews

The present study examined how variations in the design of asynchronous video interviews (AVIs) impact important interviewee attitudes, behaviours, and outcomes, including perceived fairness, anxiety, impression management, and interview performance. Using a 2 × 2 experimental design, we investigated the impact of two common and important design elements on these outcomes: (a) preparation time (unlimited versus limited) and (b) the ability to re-record responses. Using a sample of 175 participants completing a mock AVI, we found that whereas providing such options (i.e., unlimited preparation time and/or re-recording) did not impact outcomes directly, the extent to which participants actually used these options did affect outcomes. For instance, those who used more re-recording attempts performed better in the interview and engaged in less deceptive impression management. Moreover, those who used more preparation time performed better in the interview while engaging in slightly less honest impression management. These findings point to the importance of investigating the effects of AVI design on applicant experiences and outcomes. Specifically, AVI design elements produce opportunities for applicants not typically present in synchronous interviews, and can alter interview processes in crucial ways. Finally, not all applicants use these opportunities equally, and this has implications for understanding interview behaviour and outcomes.