READ TIME – 5 MINUTES
Did you know that since the pandemic, the use of video interviews has gone through the roof? Before COVID-19, only 22% of employers conducted video interviews, but now, 66% of employers are using this method of interviewing. That’s why knowing how to navigate a video interview is crucial.
Believe us, it could be the key to landing your dream job!
It’s known that interview nerves can be overwhelming, but here’s the good news: most video interviews are conducted in the comfort of your own home. This means you have greater control of your surroundings, which can help you relax and feel more at ease during the interview. So, don’t stress about a video interview – embrace it! It’s an opportunity to shine from the comfort of your own home.
Preparation
Preparing for a video interview is just as important as preparing for a face-to-face interview. The preparation should start at least a day before the interview. The first step is to choose a suitable location. When selecting the location, ensure that you have access to a stable internet connection, suitable lighting, minimal noise, and no possible interference. Location is crucial as interviewers expect clear audio and a professional camera shot. To get the perfect camera shot, adjust your camera so that your face and shoulders are in the centre of the frame. Also, ensure that the background is well-presented.
Once you have decided on the interview location, you should consider your attire. Your appearance can have a significant impact. Did you know that it only takes 7 seconds to make a first impression? Therefore, it’s necessary to wear smart attire and arrive punctually. Ideally, you should log in and get set up 5-10 minutes early. This demonstrates that you are well-prepared and can be an effective way to create a positive first impression.
Preparing for an interview is crucial, regardless of whether it is remote, pre-recorded, or face-to-face. To make a good impression, it is essential to research the company and get an idea of the common interview questions. Once you know potential questions, rehearse the answers to them. Creating an elevator pitch that highlights your strengths, work experience, achievements, hobbies, and interests can go a long way in an interview. An elevator pitch should be about 30-60 seconds long and include all the necessary information about you. By doing all this, you’ll be well-equipped to impress the interviewers and increase your chances of landing the job.
During Your Video Interview
During your video interview, it is crucial to pay close attention to your body language as it can significantly impact first impressions and any other impressions made during the interview. Some useful tips for displaying positive body language during your interview include:
- Make Eye Contact – Eye contact is essential because it showcases your confidence in yourself and your answers. You should avoid looking around the room, especially when listening or speaking and try your hardest to maintain eye contact with the interviewers. Eye contact is the basis for building trust and relationships.
- Be Responsive and Listen – Throughout your interview, you’re going to want to be at the top of your game. You’ll need to listen to the interviewers and acknowledge what they’re saying whilst also thinking of quick, informative responses. The goal should be to stay alert and responsive – interviewers will assess how you behave when you’re not talking, so staying engaged is crucial.
- Remember Your Posture – Slouching in an interview can translate as a lack of motivation, energy and confidence. It’s important you sit formally and present yourself in an engaged way so you give the interviewers a good impression.
- Exit Strong – Regardless of how well you think the interview went, you should exit as strong as you started. Therefore, just like when you joined the interview, make eye contact with the interviewer whilst smiling and thanking them for their time.
Video Interview Tips
- Practice – If you are not familiar with video interviews, it is highly recommended that you practice before the actual interview day. Setting up everything beforehand and rehearsing answers will help you hone your skills. Practising can also help reduce your anxiety and put you in the best position to succeed in the interview.
- Pay Attention To How You Sound – During video interviews, candidates often focus on their appearance rather than their voice. However, it is crucial to consider the speed of your speech, the length of your pauses, and the tone and pitch of your voice. It is essential to communicate your thoughts clearly, so it’s a good idea to practice with a friend until it sounds natural and clear.
- Use Notes – One of the major benefits of remote interviews is that you can subtly refer to your notes. It’s best to keep your notes brief and only refer to them when necessary. Remember That while referring to your notes, it’s important to stay engaged with the interviewer and maintain eye contact with the camera. Therefore, make sure to position your notes close to the camera so that you can read them without losing eye contact.
- Treat The Interview Like A Conversation – When you treat your interview as a conversation, you can establish real connections with your interviewer. Unlike in a face-to-face interview, you don’t have the opportunity to make small talk before or after the interview. Therefore, it’s essential that you build a rapport during the interview. You should aim to be more personable and be yourself as if you were talking to someone you know well.
Video interviews are gaining popularity among employers. With a strong foundation, you can succeed in any interview, especially in video interviews. After reading this blog, you’ll know exactly how to prepare for and have a successful video interview. So, now that you’ve sharpened your interview skills, why not begin to explore potential job opportunities?