Video interviews continue to increase in popularity. 60% of hiring managers and recruiters use them to assess potential new hires according to a recent survey by Software Advice. The Berkeley Haas Evening & Weekend MBA program will follow this trend by piloting a new interview process this year.
In lieu of in-person interviews, you’ll submit 1-2 minute video answers to two specific questions. For the first question, you'll share why you’re pursuing an MBA and why Haas is the best fit. The second question asks you to share a leadership experience.
We sat down for a quick Q&A with Jenny Clare, Associate Director of Admissions, who will be reviewing these video interviews with other members of the admissions team.
What interview tips do you have for applicants?
Don’t be too nervous or concerned. It’s a relatively easy process. Practice using the technology before you start the interview so you are comfortable starting and stopping the video and can recognize how much time is left. Make sure you have a reliable internet connection. Find a spot with no unexpected interruptions. Take a minute to think about the topics ahead of time. It’s okay to have notes to refer to if that makes you more comfortable.
Have fun with it. Speak comfortably and naturally. Recognize that it’s one small piece of your application. While the video interview is important, it’s not this big, time consuming thing. Everything else in your application won’t be outweighed in these 2-4 minutes.
How does this make the interview process easier?
It’s a much shorter time commitment. We know you’re busy. You don’t need to find time in the middle of your work day to come to campus. It’s especially easier for our out of town candidates. The video interview is only a couple minutes rather than travel time plus a half hour interview.
What insights does the admissions team hope to gain?
Simply put, we want concise answers to the two questions. We’re looking to see how well you can organize your thoughts. Show us your verbal communication skills—that’s something we can’t get a feel for from the rest of your application. We hope the video interview will give you a chance to demonstrate parts of your personality that aren’t seen elsewhere in your application.
To learn more about the video interview process, check out these FAQs.
