How to video interview for your next job
Employers are now recruiting and planning ahead post-pandemic. They are increasingly using remote recruitment strategies and the likelihood is that you’ll need to think about preparing to interview by video.
Given all the current uncertainty in the workplace environment, many companies are looking for experienced candidates like our Ten2Two members who can integrate teams quickly and work on a part time, remote or flexible basis. Whether you’ve interviewed before by video or it’s your first time, take a look at our top video interview tips.
Take some time to prepare and participate for your next job interview by video.
Preparing for your video interview…
- Choose and test your tech
You can use a mobile but a laptop or tablet is a better device. Check that your webcam and microphone are working and your device is fully charged. It’s a good idea to test and become familiar with the video application before the interview takes place. If you do use your mobile phone, don’t move around during the interview.
- Check your surroundings
Make sure your background appears professional or at least neutral, avoiding anything that might distract the interviewer or create the wrong impression. Check your positioning with your camera ensuring that the interviewer can see all of you from the shoulders up. For best lighting, sit in front of a window so your face is well lit.
- No barking or crying
Make sure there are no noisy distractions such as pets or children around that could interrupt your interview. These could spoil the flow and again, create an unprofessional impression to your prospective employer.
- Dress for success
Wear what you would normally wear to a face to face interview at the company’s premises.
- Be early!
Finally, get logged on, comfortably positioned with a drink of water at hand before the scheduled start time.
Participating in your video interview…
- Be more than yourself
It’s important to be yourself during the interview but be aware of three things: Make regular eye contact (know here your webcam is positioned); ensure you have a good posture; and try to use positive, open body language.
- Check understanding
If you’re asked a question you don’t understand, ask for clarification and if you feel that an answer you’ve given hasn’t been understood don’t be afraid to check understanding.
- Pause for breath
Video requires people to be more deliberate in their actions and conversations so deliberately pause briefly between statements particularly if they’re long or detailed.
- Prepare your questions
Having your questions prepared ahead of time gives an even stronger impression over video than it does face to face. It demonstrates thorough preparation and enthusiasm for the job.
- Use your notes
If you want to make or refer to notes, go ahead but don’t get fixated by them!
Remember we’ve got lots of other great tips and hints in our candidates section to help you write a cover letter, prepare your CV, succeed in a job interview, video interview and ask the right interview questions.
