5 Easy Video Interview Tips to Help You Ace your Interview

Since the pandemic, video interviews are far more common than they used to be. Many employers now include a virtual interview at some point in the hiring process. often in the initial stages to screen out unwanted candidates, so it pays to be prepared.

Getting ready for a video job interview is like an in-person interview in many ways. But there are a few important differences. There’s technology to contend with at home rather than in a professional environment and you may not have your own desk space or a quiet spot to sit for the video interview.

Given that video interviewing is becoming more and more common over the last two years, we’ve put together some video interview tips to help you ace your next virtual interview:

1. Don’t show up late

It sounds obvious but, it’s crucial to be punctual for your video interview, just like with an in-person one. In fact, research by HR software company Zenefits found that hiring managers actually have less patience with tardiness in video interviews. This is because candidates don’t have obstacles like travel, traffic and transport to overcome, so they really don’t have a good excuse to be late.?

2. Test out the tech in advance

A common reason why you might be late for a virtual interview is tech problems. Your wi-fi could go down, your laptop camera stop working or you’re not able to join the call at all. You can’t predict everything that may happen, but preparation can reduce the risk of tech problems making you late for your interview.

Try the following:

·??????Do a practice video call using the same software earlier in the day

·??????Test out your microphone and camera

·??????Run an internet speed test.

·??????Make sure that all your software is up to date.

3. Set up your environment

When choosing a location for your video interview, opt for somewhere quiet, tidy, private, and well-lit. a neutral background (like a white wall) is also helpful. You'll want to make sure the camera is angled slightly above you, looking down, rather than below your eye line, and that you've done a last check of your lighting and positioning before you begin the call. But the most crucial thing is privacy, so select a setting where you’re unlikely to be distracted or interrupted, there's nothing like a barking dog or errant toddler interrupting your interview to distract your train of thought!

Take some time to get the lighting right, testing it out on the video conferencing software. Close all other apps and programs you have open on your computer, and pop your phone on silent and out of sight. It’s also a good idea to let other household members know that the room is off-limits for the time being.

4. Be professional

The golden rule is - treat a video interview just as you would an in-person interview. This means dressing smartly and conducting yourself professionally. You’re likely to be in the comfort of your own home, but remember that for the duration of the interview it’s essentially a work environment. Make sure you are comfortable though so that you don't unnecessarily fidget or move around which can be distracting for the interviewer.

So, no slouching on the couch or cats curled up on your lap – and strictly no pajamas!

5. Act naturally and relax a little

This is easier said than done, as it’s understandable to be nervous ahead of a job interview. But you’ll find the process much easier if you’re able to smile, be yourself and talk about your achievements and skills with confidence.

One of the advantages of video interviewing for candidates is that you can have some notes to jog your memory. But you should only use these as prompts, and avoid reading out answers wholesale. This will be immediately obvious to the interviewer, and it won’t leave a good impression…

For a quick roundup of all these points, check out our video here.

Need more help with video interview tips, or searching for a new role? Find your dream job with one of the leading recruitment agencies in the US. Call the Cast USA recruitment team on 470 845 2800 or email [email protected].?