The Impact of Explanations on Applicant Reactions to Automated Asynchronous Video Interviews

ABSTRACT Applicants generally react less favorably to asynchronous video interviews (AVIs) in the selection process than synchronous interviews; however, explanations may improve reactions. This study applied a justice model of applicants' reactions, including formal characteristics, information given, and interpersonal treatment, to influence applicants' perceptions of AVIs. Data were collected from 380 individuals through online platforms. Participants took an AVI, were informed the interview would be scored automatically, and were rejected with either a consistency‐centric (i.e., emphasizing the consistency of the selection process), opportunity‐centric (i.e., emphasizing the flexibility of the process and the opportunity to perform), combined, or a simple message saying they did not score high enough. While the hypothesized main effects of explanations were not supported, the use of a combined explanation indirectly influenced organizational attraction, pursuit intentions, and recommendation intentions through perceptions of procedural justice and interpersonal treatment. This study underscores the importance of comprehensive rejection information to enhance applicant reactions to AVIs (A data transparency [Supporting Information S1: Table S1] is provided).