What video validation adds to a recruitment screener

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A screener helps establish whether an applicant meets the requirements of a study. There are times, though, when a written answer leaves something important unclear.

A player might select a particular title without explaining how they engage with it. Two answers might appear inconsistent. Or the research may require participants to describe their experiences in more detail than the application captures.

Video validation allows us to explore those points before selection.

Explore the experience behind an answer

• Depending on the study, validation can involve short recorded responses or a live conversation.
• An applicant might describe a recent session, explain what they enjoy about a game or talk through how their playing habits have changed.
• The purpose is to understand relevant experience in the applicant’s own words. Someone’s explanation can add context that a tick-box answer doesn’t provide.

Clarify uncertainty

• An unexpected answer isn’t automatically a reason to reject someone.
• People interpret questions differently, make mistakes and sometimes struggle to fit their experience into the options available. A conversation can help distinguish a misunderstanding from a more significant concern.
• For example, someone may describe themselves as a regular player but have taken a recent break. Whether that affects suitability depends on the study’s requirements.
• Validation helps us establish the detail needed to make that judgement.

Consider what the session requires

• For interviews and group discussions, it can be useful to hear how someone describes their experiences.
• That doesn’t mean selecting only confident, polished speakers. Hesitation, an unfamiliar accent or a quieter manner should not be confused with having little to contribute.
• The relevant question is whether the person can take part meaningfully in the research being planned, with any agreed support or adjustments.

Understand its limits

• Video validation adds information. It does not prove every claim or guarantee attendance, honesty or useful feedback.
• Where particular gaming experience is essential, supporting evidence may also be appropriate. The checks should reflect the brief and remain proportionate to what needs confirming.

Agree the approach before recruitment

• At Gromotion, we agree validation requirements with clients so the information gathered supports their selection decisions.
• This also helps keep the process focused for applicants. Each step should have a clear purpose, and participants should understand what they are being asked to do.

Planning a study and considering how to validate applicants? Get in touch to discuss an approach that fits your research.