6 Tips on How to Master a Video Interview

Do you have a video interview on your agenda this week? Companies are now leaning on technology to fill their hiring and recruiting needs. Video interviewing allows recruiters and hiring managers to complete interviews faster than traditional methods, ultimately speeding up the hiring process. So, how does a person ace a virtual meeting? Here are a few helpful tips to ensure you have a successful video interview!

Practice makes perfect

Treat this interview just like any face-to-face interview and practice your answers beforehand. If you are practicing with a friend or family member, wear your interview outfit and get their opinion on it. If you are going to have your video interview at home, you can even pick the spot in advance to ensure that the lighting, sound, and background are in an appropriate setting. and practice in this area. 

Test out your set-up

If you are using a laptop or tablet, make sure that the device is fully charged on the day of the interview. Another key factor in running a successful video interview is ensuring your connection to WiFi is strong. Test the connection again 10-15 minutes before you’re set up to meet. Also, avoid using a smartphone or small device in these situations. It’s best to use a device with a bigger screen. If you are using a tablet, make sure you position it so that it is stationary. 

According to Katie Larson, Lead Marketing Recruiter, “I have had a few video interviews that have been unflattering because their face is too far away or too close to the camera. Or, they have bad lighting. I’ve also had interviews where candidates can’t figure out how to turn on the video or sound, and it shows they are unprepared. I would recommend setting up 10 minutes early, to avoid these mistakes.”

Clear unnecessary distractions

Computer or tablet microphones typically are sensitive and will pick up any noise in the room. If you are interviewing at home, make sure that you are in a quiet room and avoid areas of the house with loud noises such as dogs barking, children playing, music, or etc.  It is best to turn off your phone and/or any alerts that may come to your computer or tablet to avoid getting thrown off by these notifications during the interview. Lastly, ensure that the area or room you have chosen is clean and clear of clutter.

Dress for the occasion

It may seem tempting to only dress from the waist up, but I assure you that this may not be the best idea – just in case the viewer sees (we’ve all seen that commercial)! You should dress how you would as if you were interviewing in-person – head-to-toe. A good rule of thumb is to avoid wearing flashy colors and choose options that make you feel comfortable and confident. 

Keep your focus 

In video interviews, it’s important to make sure that you are making eye contact with whomever you are speaking with. This means that you are looking at the camera and not the picture image of yourself. Ensuring that your face is at a good distance from the camera is also important. Remember that the same gestures and good posture still apply in this virtual setting. Keep in mind, if the connection of your wifi isn’t strong, hand gestures may be delayed. So, it’s best to try and keep your hands positioned on your lap as much as possible. 

Prepare questions

When interviewing, you’ll want to come across engaged and interested in the opportunity, especially if the interview is over video. In this case, you want to try to make yourself seem extra curious. So, it’s extremely important to ask as many questions as possible. Make sure to have your questions ready ahead of time and written down somewhere close to you. It’s also a good idea to have something to write with near you so you can jot down the answers. You will come off as excited to know more about the company, culture and/or position and ultimately end on a good note.

Want to know answers to avoid during an interview? Read this!