Video interviews have become increasingly popular in today’s digital age. Instead of meeting face-to-face, candidates and employers connect through video conferencing platforms, such as Zoom or Skype.
This allows for remote interviews, saving time and money for both parties involved.
Here at Signature Recruitment, we have been providing interview advice since inception and many of our clients have been switched from in-person to virtual interviews, so we’ve put together some helpful advice.
“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail” – Benjamin Franklin
Video interviews offer numerous benefits for both job seekers and employers. They provide a convenient way to conduct interviews, especially for candidates who are unable to travel. Additionally, video interviews allow employers to assess a candidate’s communication skills, professionalism and ability to adapt to new technologies.
To start us off we have prepared a checklist to help you ensure that your tech setup is appropriate for video interview and also includes some of the things we tend to miss when we’re a little bit anxious such as ensuring our other devices are switched to silent.
How do I prepare for a video interview?
- Download the video platform – Check which platform you will need to download for the interview. This will be stated within your confirmation email.
- Prepare beforehand – Prepare as you would for a face-to-face interview. Arrange a preparation call with your Consultant and check out our tips here.
- Camera and audio – Test your webcam and microphone. During the test you will see if you are in a well lit, private place for the interview.
- Check power – Ensure that the battery on your device is full and your charging cable is to hand for the interview.
- Turn of do not disturb – Turn other devices to silent and post a do not disturb sign on the door to avoid any unexpected interruptions.
How to prepare for a video interview
1. What to wear for a video interview
The best thing to wear for a video interview is something that matches the level of professionalism at the company and feels comfortable to you. So dress smart, just as you would for an in-person interview.
2. Keep eye contact
In a face-to-face interaction eye contact shows your engagement as the Interviewer is speaking, this is a little bit more difficult in a video set up. If you are the individual speaking, perhaps in response to a question, ensure you are looking directly at the webcam. If the Interviewer is speaking, it is ok to look at the screen or perhaps take notes.
Video interview practice
3. Prepare for any interruptions
What should you do if you have an unpredicted interruption? Despite our best efforts Tech can be unreliable, we strongly advise that prior to the interview you secure a contact number for the Interviewer. If you experience a loss of connection, you can call the Interviewer to ask if they’re okay to wait whilst you troubleshoot or arrange an alternative that suits them best.
4. Have a back-up plan
Your home setup might not be as secure as a private office or meeting room, if someone is to enter the room unexpectedly, firstly apologise for the interruption, mute your mic, turn off your video and when you are able to secure the space resume your interview as soon as possible.
5. Looking at notes during video interview
Discretely looking at your notes is usually acceptable in a video interview. Use them sparingly to help you remember specific facts about the role or questions you might forget to ask.
6. Body language
Think about your body language. I advise keeping as still as possible on your interview, especially if you have a slower internet connection because a lot of movement can cause the image to freeze. A simple nod of the head or a wide smile will show your engagement as the interviewer is speaking.
Video interview questions and answers
An interview is a two-way street. It is just as important for you to be sure that a job is right for you, as it is for your potential employer. To this end, you should always be prepared before you arrive and have some good questions ready to ask your potential employer to help you to make an informed decision should you be offered the role.
Here are some good questions and answers to get you started.
You can also click here to listen to our top tips:
