The ease of technology and virtual offices have made video interviews a necessary step in the overall interview process. Sometimes a video interview can pose additional challenges due to technology mishaps or the inability to see the other person’s reaction well, adding to the pre-interview anxiety.
No need to worry! Whether it’s Zoom, Teams, or a pre-recorded video resume, the tips below can help create success in your job search.
The main intention of any interview is to do your best so you can advance to the next stage.With over 25 years of helping candidates prepare for these types of interviews, we’d like to share some best practices with you:
The Video Interview
- No matter the technology used adhere to this mantra: Test, and Test again. Test your device’s audio and video connections before the actual interview. Don’t wait until the interview day to download!
- Confirm time zones in case the interviewer is in another state or country.
- Practice ahead of time on screen and record yourself if possible. Pay attention to your posture, voice, lighting and background and adjust as needed.
- Check the lighting and move your computer as needed so that your face is illuminated without any shadows. Get an external light such as a ring light if the room lighting is low.
- Make sure your head and shoulders appear in the video frame – don’t get too close or move too far away from the camera.
- Position the camera at eye-level and make eye contact with it! If you only watch the screen itself you’ll look like you’re not making eye contact with the interviewer.
- Research the company, follow on social, and look up your interviewer’s Linkedin profile. You may find some things in common!
- Ensure that you are in a quiet place.
- Make sure your device is fully charged or plugged in during the interview
- You’ll be using your voice and tone to communicate— be sure to speak clearly and succinctly.
- Be friendly and smile while talking.
- Be prepared to ask engaging questions about the company culture and the team.
- Have your resume close by so you can refer to it.
- Listen well and avoid talking over the interviewer.
- Don’t discuss salary or benefits at this stage.
- This is your first opportunity to connect and shine.
- Dress and groom as if you were interviewing in person. Dress for the job you want!
- Pay attention to your surroundings—especially the background. Select a clean, neutral, and distraction-free backdrop like a wall, or screen.
- If you live with a roommate let them know you’ll be on camera to avoid unexpected noise or interruptions.
- If applicable, have your portfolio loaded on your desktop in case screen sharing is needed. Make sure you have a clean, uncluttered desktop and if needed, change your desktop wallpaper to something creative but professional.
We wish you all the best in your next job interview! Be sure to check out all our interview tips on our blog.