Video interviews are now an increasing trend within the recruitment process, they have been implemented by employers across Leicester, including Hastings Direct.
Numerous recruiters use video interviews to pre-screen applicants and shortlist candidates for face-to-face interviews.
If you are faced with an upcoming video interview, then continue reading for our handy guide to ensuring you give yourself the best chance at being successful!
1.Create a suitable working environment
This is particularly important if you do not have a dedicated office/study area within your home. Ensure that your workspace is clean and clutter free, ideally with a blank background.
It is best to carry out your video interview in the quietest room in your house, where you can eliminate as much external noise, echo and intrusions as possible.
Also, make sure your phone is on silent, so you do not have any distractions.
Let everyone that you live with know to not disturb you during your interview and keep pets away.
2.Ensure that you have a stable internet connection
Imagine watching a fast-action movie and then halfway through the final fight scene your screen freezes – it’s a huge anti-climax! Don’t let a poor internet connection ruin your flow, whilst you are trying to sell yourself.
Ensure that you have tested your device for a strong internet connection and closed any unnecessary internet tabs and applications. You might also want to disconnect all other devices in your household.
3.Familiarise yourself with the software
Most video interviews will be carried out via Skype or Zoom. Make sure you have an account set up but more importantly, know how to use it.
If you are not a regular user of the software you have been asked to use, practice with family and friends. This will give you a great opportunity to get familiar with settings, layout etc.
4.Lights, Camera, Action
Before your video interview, test your webcam to see if you need to adjust the position to improve the lighting. If it’s too dark add a lamp behind the camera.
Remember to position your webcam correctly – positioning it too low might highlight some unflattering angles! Place your webcam at eye level to maximise eye contact. This is important as eye contact demonstrates honesty and integrity.
It is also useful to sit on a stationary chair rather than a swivel chair so you do not get tempted to fidget, which will make it appear as though you are bored or nervous.
Also, test your audio to identify and remove any external noise. For example, you might find that you need to close a window to minimise noise from outside traffic, construction work or emergency service vehicle sirens. Remember to also test your microphone, if your microphone does not work it won’t matter how good your responses are!
Prior to your video interview, you might find it helpful to record yourself, in order to get comfortable and confident being in front of the camera.
Below is a great tool which will help you to test your webcam and audio, as well as record and play back footage to improve your confidence.
5.Dress Professionally
When preparing for a video interview, remember you still want to make a good first impression. It is important to dress smart and look professional.
6.Things to have next to you
Have a copy of your CV and the job description of the role you are interviewing for next to you.
Add some facts about the company or questions that you want to ask onto sticky notes that you can attach around your webcam. This will help you if you get nervous and will mean that you don’t need to look down.
Also, have a glass of water nearby just in case.