How To Succeed In Video Interview
Introduction and Overview of Video Interview
Interviews are designed to select the best possible fit for a job from a pool of applicants. It is the next and final stage of the hiring or recruitment process. Interviews can be held in various forms; among which is the video interview.
A video interview is a job interview that takes place remotely and uses video technology as the channel or medium of communication. Video interviews are of two types; synchronous and Asynchronous video interviews. Synchronous video interviews are interviews conducted live on and over the internet with both the interviewer and job seeker in attendance, while Asynchronous job interviews are recorded by the applicants at their convenience in response to questions displaced on the video interview platform.
Video interviews are held for a plethora of reasons; including to limit the number of persons in a particular place at a particular time, as well as to save time and money involved in traditional, in-person interviews. Also, video interviews eliminate the constraints arising from geographical location, automate candidate screening and improve the quality of data in the recruitment management system.
Therefore, this article will serve as a guide to job seekers and applicants on how to successfully navigate and ace a video interview.
How to Succeed in Video Interviews
Below are necessary tips and steps essential for success in video interviews in no distinct order;
- Test your Technology
- Dress for Success
- Choose a distraction-free Location/Environment
- Prepare yourself and be punctual
- Body Language and Eye contact
- Listen Carefully, Speak Slowly, and Calmly
- Review checklist on the day of the interview
Test Your Technology; All video interviews are carried out using technology such as computers, laptops, the internet, etc. Therefore, it is paramount that you do a technical test run preferably a day or two prior to the stipulated video interview day. This is to ensure that the technology is in good shape and functioning well because any technical hitches on your part can deter recruiters from hiring you. Testing your technology also encompasses making sure the following are all in place;
- VIDEO PLATFORMS; More often than not, video interviewers provide or specify platforms for the interview. Hence, you must ensure that you download the correct application, and make sure you get familiarised with the interview app. Some of the software used for video interviews includes Microsoft Teams, Skype, Google Hangout, and Zoom.
- AUDIO SETTING; This is another essential component of the technological setup. You should make sure your speakers and microphone are in good shape, working properly, and loud enough. You don’t want to be responding to interview questions without the interviewer hearing. Therefore, do a microphone check to make sure you are loud and clear enough.
- CAMERA SETTING; Having a clear and functional camera is also vital; it is advisable to sit in front of a bright and solid-colored background, so as not to create a glare or shadow. This way, the recruiter will focus totally on you. Make sure the camera is focused on you.
- INTERNET CONNECTION; Finally, you must ensure that you have a working internet connection. If there is inconsistency with your internet provider, you should go for another one.
Dress for success; Dressing professionally and adequately is essential for interviews regardless of the form. It is important to dress properly like you would in an in-person interview. This will send the right message about your professionalism to the video interviewer. Dressing professionally in full attire will help prepare you mentally for the video interview. In addition, research the company’s culture to have a good idea of what is appropriate or not. To look perfect on camera, wear soft colored clothes and avoid bright ones.
Choose a Distraction-free Location; Distractions in form of noise from children, friends, pets, moving vehicles, and so on can affect the video interview process. Such distractions might make you lose focus, and/or jeopardize your chances of getting the job. Make sure the environment/location is devoid of the aforementioned distractions. Relatively, ensure that you switch off your phone, turn off email notifications, text and social media alerts, as well as software updates that may appear on the computer screen during the interview. Also, programs that might interrupt the webcam should promptly be turned off.
Prepare yourself and be Punctual; Punctuality and preparedness are essential for success in video interviews. In most cases, applicants are required to go 30 minutes early for in-person interviews; the same applies to video interviews. The benefits of being early for your video interview go beyond showing job recruiters that you are a punctual person. Being punctual gives you ample time to set up and ensure that everything needed for the interview is in good shape. Also, it avails you the opportunity to be mentally and psychologically ready for the interview.
In addition, you should prepare adequately as you would for an in-person interview. You should carry out thorough research on the company, its milestones, and products, your job description amongst others. Also, get yourself prepared to talk about your skills and how you plan to be an asset to the company.
Body Language and Eye Contact; Body language in video interviews convey a myriad of things to the potential employer about the candidate. To present a positive image to your interviewer, make sure you sit up straight with a good posture. Your feet should be placed firmly on the ground and don’t slouch or hold your head up with your hand. Also, your hands should be placed on your laps to resist distracting fiddling and/or gesturing. Attention should also be given to where you are looking in the course of the interview. Look directly into the camera as best as you can when speaking; this will show the recruiter that you are fully engaged and not distracted or perturbed by the happenings on your screen. When you look at the screen, your photo, or the interviewer’s face, however, it means that you are not looking into the camera or making adequate eye contact.
Listen Carefully, Speak Slowly and Calmly; Being attentive is vital during video interviews. Make sure your mind doesn’t drift off, ensure you listen actively to hear and understand the questions being asked. In the course of the video interview, you might accidentally cut your interviewer off as a result of audio delays and lack of attention. Therefore, it is important to wait a few seconds after each question before speaking.
Relatively, you should take your time when speaking and enunciate your words to ensure that the recruiter understands and hears you clearly during the interview. At times, the microphone might not pick up your voice well, hence, it is essential that you speak clearly and slowly to enable the interviewer to pick up your responses and answers.
Review Checklist on the day of the Interview; It is necessary to have a checklist on the day of the video interview; this will ensure that you have everything in place before your interview starts. The checklist should be reviewed when you are setting up; items on the checklist should encompass the following;
- Ensure that you won’t be distracted by going to a quiet room.
- Make sure your webcam and audio are working properly.
- Ensure that you have a functional and uninterrupted internet connection.
- Make sure all applications, tabs, and windows that you won’t be using for the interview are closed.
- Ensure that your phone is turned off or in silent mode.
- Ensure that the background and environment are clear and bright enough.
- Have a copy of your resume to make a reference.
- Make sure you are dressed professionally.
- Ensure that you smile and nod when listening to questions, observations, and comments from your interviewer; this shows that you are fully engaged.