Given the impact of COVID-19 and the current calls for social distancing, it’s likely your next interview could be a video interview. Make sure you’re ready to get in front of the camera by following these video interview tips.
Test your Tech
A few days before the interview, do a trial run to make sure your equipment is working. Whether you’re using Skype, Zoom, Google Hangout or another video platform, make sure you have a username that’s professional, just as you would with your email address. Check that your computer’s camera, microphone, and internet connection are working. Do a trial run with a friend or family member, if possible, so you can know for sure everything is working how it should!
Charge it up
This seems like an obvious one but it’s easy to overlook! If you’re using a laptop or tablet, make sure it’s fully charged – you don’t want to have to reach for a charger mid-interview, or worse, the computer shut down mid-sentence!
Dress for success
Dress as you would for an in-person interview from head to toe. This will not only make you feel more confident but avoid any mishaps – such as standing up at the end of the interview with pyjamas on the bottom thinking you would only be seen from the waist up. We also suggest wearing plain colours, on camera bright or patterned clothes can be very distracting, distorting the image and pulling the attention away from you!
Remove any distractions
Choose a location that’s free from the distractions of children, roommates or pets. Post a note on the door if you can to remind people not to disturb you during your interview.
Make sure the background is free from clutter and embarrassing items like laundry piles. Set up lighting that’s bright to ensure the interviewers can see you clearly, natural light is best so if you can sit in front of a window try and do so!
Turn off email, text and social media notifications or anything that may pop up during your interview. Turn off programs that might interfere with the webcam, and close browser tabs.
Be early – as you would for any interview
Log in five or ten minutes early so you can be calm and centred when the video interview begins. Print out your resume and have it nearby, along with any speaking points you want to hit or notes you’ve taken about the company or position. This is one of the benefits of video interviews – you could even put prompts on post it notes and stick them on the wall behind the screen to remind you. You won’t want to stare off in another direction for long, so keep them brief, but having them handy can take away some stress.
Remember to make eye contact and think body language
It’s easier for your eyes to wander when the person you’re talking to isn’t in the room. Maintain eye contact by looking directly into the camera instead of at the screen or at your own photo. Make sure your face is centred and try not to move around. Keep good posture, sitting with your back straight, feet on the ground and arms resting in your lap or on the desk.
Close the video interview by sharing your appreciation
Just as you would with any interview, thank the interviewer for the opportunity. And follow up with a post-interview thank-you note within 24 hours.
If you find the prospect of doing a video interview daunting, or struggle with other aspects of the job search journey, at asphaleia we can help guide you through every step of the process. Through 1-1 sessions we can support you to create a CV, write cover letters, complete applications and prepare for interviews. We can also support you to gain work experience as well as gain valuable maths and English qualifications - find out more about our English and maths course for 16-24 year-olds starting next week.
Give us a call today on 01903 823546!
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