What are the most important nonverbal cues to consider during a video interview?

2 Facial expressions

Facial expressions are another way to communicate your emotions, reactions, and attitudes during a video interview. They can help you express enthusiasm, curiosity, and agreement, or indicate confusion, doubt, or disagreement. However, you should avoid exaggerated or inappropriate facial expressions that might seem fake, rude, or disrespectful. For example, you should not roll your eyes, frown, or smirk while the interviewer is talking. Instead, you should smile naturally, nod occasionally, and maintain a relaxed and friendly demeanor.

3 Body language

Body language is the third major nonverbal cue that can affect your video interview performance. It includes your posture, gestures, and movements, which can convey confidence, competence, and engagement, or insecurity, boredom, and nervousness. To improve your body language, you should sit up straight, but not too rigid, and lean slightly forward to show interest. You should also use gestures that match your words and tone, but not too much or too fast, as they might distract or annoy the interviewer. Moreover, you should avoid crossing your arms, touching your face, or fidgeting with your hair or clothes.

4 Background and appearance

Background and appearance are not strictly nonverbal cues, but they can also influence how the interviewer perceives you during a video interview. They can reflect your professionalism, organization, and attention to detail, or your lack of them. Therefore, you should choose a clean, quiet, and well-lit space for your video call, and remove any clutter, noise, or distractions that might interfere with your communication. You should also dress appropriately for the occasion, as if you were meeting in person, and avoid wearing anything too flashy, casual, or revealing.

5 Technical issues

Technical issues are inevitable in any video call, but they can also affect your nonverbal cues and your overall impression during a video interview. They can cause delays, interruptions, or misunderstandings that might disrupt the flow and quality of your conversation. To prevent or minimize technical issues, you should test your equipment, software, and internet connection before the interview, and have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. You should also inform the interviewer if you experience any problems, and apologize and ask for clarification if needed.

6 Feedback and follow-up

Feedback and follow-up are the last nonverbal cues that you should consider during a video interview. They can show your appreciation, interest, and professionalism, or your indifference, impatience, and rudeness. To give positive feedback and follow-up, you should thank the interviewer for their time and attention, and express your enthusiasm and availability for the next steps. You should also send a follow-up email within 24 hours, reiterating your gratitude, highlighting your strengths, and addressing any concerns or questions.