Video interviewing is becoming extremely common in this day and age. You may be asked to either participate in a video conference from the comfort of your own home, or in some cases, from the office location of your potential new employer. Here are a few tips on how to nail your next video interview:
Prep Your Technology
Charge up your laptop/tablet or phone (last resort). If you must use a tablet or phone, find a way to steady it so that it does not shake or move. Turn off any notifications such as email alerts, alarms, or social media that may pop-up and throw you off course mid sentence. Prior to your interview, test out your technology and get familiar with the software. Test your connection (especially if you are going to a coffee shop or other location). A trial run with a friend is always helpful.
Look the Part
Dress as though you are meeting your interviewer in person. Wear your entire interview outfit from head to toe—this will put your head in the game, and if for some reason you absolutely had to stand up, you will avoid the embarrassment. Choose neutral colors that will not be distracting through video and try to avoid clothing that falls odd when sitting.
Professional Presence
Utilize a professional user name or email address. If you have to create a new email address for this situation, it’s worth it! Do not use your social media handle either. Choose your user name carefully as this will ultimately be your first impression.
Create a Professional Setting
Find a quiet area with minimal distractions and decorations behind you (preferably a blank wall). Avoid bright light from behind as this will create shadows. Ask family members or roommates to acknowledge your interview time, keep pets out of sight, and close windows to avoid unwanted noise in the background. If you must conduct your interview in another location (coffee shop, library etc.), make sure you are not choosing a local hot spot with lots of foot traffic. Choose a location where you feel comfortable speaking at your normal level and will be able to give 100% of your attention to your interview.
Connect in Advance
If you are able to, connect to your interviewer on the platform prior to the meeting. Ask for their contact information before in case there is an issue and you need to speak on the phone instead.
Maintain Eye Contact
It’s easy to get distracted during a video conference. Keep your eyes on your interviewer and avoid staring at your own video. When speaking, keep your gaze directly into the camera. If you are able to, place your computer at eye-level (not above or below).
Questions/Talking Points
A huge advantage to interviewing through video is that you can create a “cheat-sheet” of questions and talking points. Keep your notes out of sight of the interviewer, and never stare down for long—a quick glance now and then is okay.
