With the digital age upon us, video interviewing is becoming increasingly popular! It is important to know the ins and outs of how to correctly conduct a video interview.
Video interviewing is becoming more common every day, yet many do not know the proper etiquette for one! You should take a video interview as seriously as an in-person one and prepare the same way!
First, be sure you and the company are on the same page. Know the time of the video interview, including what time zone it is scheduled in. Video interviews are very common for distance interviews and you may have to add or subtract hours for the Central Time Zone in Alabama. Also, if you do not already have a professional account name, set one up. It’ll be hard for an interviewer to take you seriously if you’re using the account name you set up years ago as an ode to your favorite band or animal!
Like in person interviews, you should research the company so you are aware of their culture and their practices. Some simple ways to do this are to check out the company’s “About Us” section on their website, check them out on social media, or talk to a friend who has worked there. Google them for recent news stories or updates. You want to be informed about your potential employer! Be sure you have questions ready to ask at the end of the interview as well--you can jot these down and have them at your side during the interview.
Another tip is to rehearse and practice before the video interview. Many people get anxious when they are suddenly in front of a camera. Record yourself answering mock interview questions so you are not caught off guard. An employer will be able to tell the difference between a candidate who has prepared for the interview and one who has not. Make sure you are maintaining ‘eye contact’ throughout the interview by looking into the camera. If you get distracted by the image of yourself on the screen, you cover it with a sticky note during your interview.
You’ll also want to make sure your interview space is free from distractions. It is best to have a simple background behind you and conduct the interview in a space where there will not be any outside noise, including roommates or pets. Test your lighting in advance to make sure the space is not too bright or too dim for you to be clearly seen. Be sure to maintain good posture during the interview--sit in a chair at a table, rather than on your bed or couch which can be perceived as too casual.
Another important aspect of a video interview is your attire. It is important to dress professionally from head to toe. You will not feel as professional if you throw on a dress shirt over your pajama pants. Dress for a video interview exactly as you would for a face-to-face interview. It will make you feel more prepared and at ease.
Lastly, one of the most important things to do before a video interview is to check your technology. Many video interviews are done on a laptop or desktop computer, and utilize a webcam, speaker, and a microphone. It is essential to check that all of your technology is working properly so there are no malfunctions during the interview. Make sure your device is fully charged or plugged in during the interview so your computer does not die on you. Technological malfunctions during a video interview can be viewed as unprofessional because it might indicate to an employer that you were not prepared for the interview.
With these tips under your belt, you are now ready for your next video interview!
