Video Tips

Thanks to COVID we all are getting more and more comfortable operating in a virtual world. Our computer monitors have become more than just how we get work done, it’s now a primary vehicle for communication.

A hiring leader reached out to me this week asking for video interviewing tips he could share with his internal team. When your team is interviewing internally for a new opportunity or promotion it’s great to give them suggestions and support them so they can perform at their best.

?As internal employees, we can get lax or feel as if we’ve got the interview in the bag because we already work there, we know we are supported for the role…in reality that’s not the case. There is still competition.

You can also use these tips if you're making an important presentation to the Board, other leadership or a presentation to your team.

Here’s the list of video interview tips we put together at TalentQ. Feel free to share with your teams so they don’t miss the details and they can stand out at the interview.

Video Interview Tips:?

Technology. To prepare for video interviews you will need to make sure your computer or phone can connect to the technology that will be used during the interviews. Most will have links to test your system in the information they provide to you. If not, ask a colleague to test it with you so you know it works before your interview. This is important to make sure your audio and video are all ready to go.?

Attire. With video interviews, think about what you will wear so it looks good on the screen. If you are using a digital background or blurring your background, it can change how you look on video.? ?

Environment. Consider your surrounding environment. You must be aware of what is visible in the room behind you where your camera is facing. Make sure you cannot see a bed, clutter, or other random items. You want it to look organized, neat, and clean.?

Lighting. You'll need adequate lighting. Ring lights are amazing to provide the lighting you need. Set up your environment where you plan to conduct your video interview and practice at the same time of day. Schedule a video test call with a colleague. Have your test call at the same time of day your interview is scheduled so you get a feel for the natural lighting that is in your room at that time of day. This will help determine if you need to move positions based on the natural light coming into your windows. ?

Distractions. Silence your cell phone and any computer notifications to reduce distractions. Putting your cell phone on vibrate can still be heard if it’s on your desk with your computer, make sure it's silenced.

Eye Contact. Look directly into your camera. If you can hide the video pane so you don’t see yourself that's ideal. That way you won’t be looking at yourself and you’ll be focused on the interview.???

Notes. If you wrote down questions to ask the interviewer on a notepad when the time is right, let them know you wrote some questions down in advance and if they mind if you turn to your notes. That way they will know what you’re doing on the other side of the screen.?

If you're frustrated with your team's engagement, experiencing turnover, or anything else, feel free to contact me at your convenience. It's always confidential. Here's a link to my calendar: https://go.oncehub.com/HiringLeaderComplimentaryConsult

Cheers!