Do you have a video interview on your schedule? As hiring becomes more and more global with employees being able to work remotely, video interviews have become extremely commonplace for everyone. Given the major impact COVID-19 has had on businesses and its call for social distancing within these environments especially, it is most likely your next interview could be a video interview and not a face-to-face interview. Make sure you are prepared and ready to get in front of the camera by following these video interview tips:
1. Test your technology & connection:
A few days, or a few hours before your interview, it is very important to do a technical run to make sure all your equipment and internet connections are working smoothly. Make sure you download the necessary interview plugins you may need for your interview, whether you are using Zoom, Skype for Business, Google Meet, or any other video platform. Make sure that you test and check that computer’s camera, microphone, and internet connection are working. Do a test run to see how fast or slow your internet connection is and to see if you have any problems with video so you can fix those issues before your interview. You will have more than enough time to make all the necessary adjustments.
2. Charge it up!
If you are using a laptop, tablet, or mobile phone, make sure the device you are using is fully charged on the day of the interview, so it does not die within the interview. Try and pick a place within your household that has a strong Wi-Fi connection. If you are using a tablet or mobile phone, try and keep it stationary as it may be very distracting for the interviewer, if the device keeps shaking and moving constantly.
3. Display a professional background:
Make sure you display a clear and professional background within your household during your interview If you are working in your bedroom make sure, you display a laptop, books, or a clear poster as a backdrop. If you are using Zoom, take advantage of the various background display features the video platform provides you with.
4. Dress for Success:
You need to be professionally dressed as you would be for a face-to-face interview from head to toe – this would make you feel more confident about your interview. Try and avoid wearing flashy and bright-colored clothing to your interview. CareerBuilder’s recently published a study that was conducted by hiring managers and human resources professionals, and they stated that “blue and black are the best colors to wear to a job interview, and orange is the worst’’. It is very important to wear the right color clothing that is professional and comfortable for your interview.
5. Smile, maintain good eye contact & body language:
It is very easy to get distracted when the person you are talking to is not in the room. Maintain good eye contact and good body language to the person you are talking to during your interview. Try and make sure your face is in the center of the camera so the interviewer can see you. Speak clearly at a good pace. Keep a good posture, your back straight, feet on the ground and your arms on your desk or resting on your lap.
6. End the video interview by sharing your appreciation:
Just as you would thank an interviewer in person for his/her time and the opportunity, thank the interviewer. Don’t forget to follow up post-interview with a “Thank you” email within a few hours or 24 hours. In your email, mention how you enjoyed the interview & discussion and how you would be a great match for the company. Consider mentioning something that you and the employer had discussed during the interview in doing so it would make the message more personal and show that you are very interested in the role and job position being offered.
Supreme Talent – Expertly Matched. Lasting Success.
