Video interviews became more and more common following the rise in remote work. These kinds of interviews are seen as more cost-effective; they speed up the hiring process, both for employers and potential new employees.
As online interviews are seen as a new and more effective way of hiring, candidates need to be comfortable with video calls. Preparation is key for any job interview, but a video interview requires an even more sophisticated approach.
Today we’ll give you some tips to helo master video interviews. All of them are also key points that hiring managers consider very important for candidates.
1. Test your equipment
Make sure that your internet connection is stable to avoid poor picture and sound quality as well as to avoid dropouts. Get familiar with the way the program in question works in advance, how to switch it on, adjust the sound or video quality.
It’s also a good idea to have subtle headphones because they are typically more reliable than built-in speakers or maybe a desktop microphone. Make sure to use devices with a bigger screen and that they are stable and straight.
2. Practice to master
Perform a “mock interview” with a friend or family member to get feedback about your appearance, quality of your answers, how your technical equipment performs, and get a feel about the whole process from your side. It is a good idea to record yourself, so you will directly see how it all looks.
It might be uncomfortable to watch yourself, but don’t think, “do I have this kind of voice,” try to see the bigger picture and inspect your overall performance.
Also, 10-15 minutes before the actual video interview, test the internet connection, the technology you’re using, switch the conferencing tools on/off, so you will avoid shuffling at the beginning of the interview and make a good first impression.
3. Dress appropriately
Be well-groomed and dress for a real, in-person interview. Choose darker or subtle colors because of camera effects, and make sure you look the part from head to toe. That way, you will be more confident and conformable.
Don’t think you can only dress from the waist up; you have probably seen how that can go wrong. Consider that you maybe will need to get up during the interview, so a complete outfit is important.
Regarding makeup, wear neutral colors, avoid flashing and sparkling shadows, and don’t apply too much makeup. A shiny face is also important to avoid, so wash your face or use something to minimize its shine.
4. Set up background
Choose your surroundings carefully. It must be clutter-free and try to make the setting appear professional. Consider the lighting to avoid shadows or glossy reflections. Find a space or a room without background noises like people talking, traffic, phone ringing, or TV sounds.
It will keep you concentrated and won’t distract you during the interview. Also, remember that your microphone will pick up any close sounds, so switch off your phone, don’t drink water or coffee during the video call, or rearrange the papers on the desk.
5. Make eye contact and watch your body language
Be sure to look directly into the camera and not at the screen picture of yourself. It will create a feeling of engagement and connection with the person interviewing you. Because of delayed video projection, don’t cross your arms or make gestures with them.
Your posture needs to be relaxed and confident, and if you have the option, sit behind a desk so your upper body will appear much the same as it would in an in-person interview.
Keep your hands in your lap as much as possible to straighten your shoulders and don’t look solemn. Look agile and concentrate on your interview; listen carefully to what the interviewer is saying so you can avoid asking the person on the other end to repeat themselves. This can come off as unprofessional and sloppy.
6. Prepare questions and documents
Have some questions ready when you are asked if you have any questions regarding the job you’re applying for. You will leave a powerful impact if your questions are sharp and you inform yourself well about the company. With the right questions, you will present yourself as intelligent and engaged.
Prepare a list of important links to your CV, portfolio, or other documents so you can copy/paste them if required. You can also keep your email account open in case you need to send any additional documents to your interviewer. Have something to write on, so when they answer your question you can write it down, and you’ll look very engaged.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, this article was of help to you. Follow our tips and ace that next job interview.