POSTED Wednesday 26-06-24
Top 10 Video Interview Tips
Since the pandemic, many organisations have adopted video interviews as a standard part of their recruitment process, whether through recorded or live video calls. Our video interview tips will help you prepare and excel, regardless of the job level—executive or entry-level. Let’s break down our top 10 tips, covering the pre-interview, during, and post-interview process to ensure you’re ready.
Before the Interview
1. Do Your Research: It’s a classic tip but still essential. Some candidates don’t take video interviews as seriously as in-person ones, not out of malice or laziness, but because their environment hasn’t changed, so their fight-or-flight response isn’t triggered. Remember, a video interview is just as important as an in-person one.
Prepare thoroughly by researching the organisation and the role. Understand what they do and how you can contribute. Explore the organisation’s website and social media channels to get insights into their mission, brand tone, and client presentation. Demonstrating that you’ve researched the organisation shows your commitment and gives recruiters a glimpse of your personality. The more senior the role, the deeper your research should be.
Additionally, check review sites or forums for customer and client opinions about the organisation. Understanding what customers love and hate about the brand gives you a chance to show how you can help improve areas where the company may need your expertise.
2. Prepare Your Answers: Once you know more about the organisation, start preparing your answers to potential questions. If the recruiter provides insights into their interview objectives, you’ll be well-positioned to connect your skills with the job requirements and the organisation’s brand.
Rehearse your answers in front of a webcam to become accustomed to seeing your face on screen and looking directly at the camera. This practice will help you remember key points and reduce the likelihood of stumbling over your words. Use examples from past experiences to illustrate your points, striking a balance between being prepared and sounding natural.
3. Set Up Your Location: Choose a stable, quiet location with a neutral backdrop where you won’t be disturbed. Avoid backgrounds that are too personal, like sports memorabilia. Opt for a quiet space in your home, like a dining room, rather than a noisy coffee shop.
Ensure comfort and stability for your device, whether it’s a smartphone, laptop, tablet, or computer. Position the camera just above eye level. Consider your lighting; ideally, light should shine directly onto your face. A lamp or a ring light can help. Avoid placing the light source behind you, as it can create a silhouette effect.
4. Check Your Tech: Technology can be unpredictable, so check your equipment before the interview. Test your camera and microphone settings, and make sure your internet connection is stable. Record a short test video to ensure lighting and audio quality are adequate.
During the Interview
5. Take Deep Breaths: Interviews are nerve-wracking, but taking deep breaths can help you stay composed. Clear articulation and calm communication are crucial. Take your time with each question, especially in pre-recorded interviews, to show your ability to communicate effectively under pressure.
6. Speak Clearly: Speak slowly and clearly to ensure the interviewer can hear you, despite potential microphone or broadband issues. Confidence in your delivery reflects well on your communication skills.
7. Look at the Lens: In face-to-face interviews, eye contact is natural. In video interviews, look directly at the camera lens to simulate eye contact. This helps the interviewer engage with your answers and perceive you as confident and attentive.
8. Avoid Habits & Distractions: Minimise distracting habits like biting your nails or scratching your face. These can make you look nervous and distract the interviewer. Eliminate other distractions by locking your phone away, turning on airplane mode, and closing unnecessary apps on your computer.
After the Interview
9. Unwind with a Treat: Interviews can be stressful. Once it’s over, send your thank-you email and reward yourself with a treat, whether it’s chocolate, a drive to a relaxing place, or a run. Taking a moment to decompress helps clear your mind.
10. Reflect on Your Performance: After de-stressing, reflect on your interview performance. Consider what went well and what could be improved. Evaluate yourself against the previous tips and be honest about your execution. This reflection prepares you for future interviews and helps you continuously improve.
Summary
Video interviews are here to stay as the recruitment sector becomes increasingly digital. With practice, you can become a video interview superstar. From setting up your interview space to speaking clearly and performing self-reviews, these tips will help you excel in your next video interview.
