Video calls have become a big part of our everyday lives, so it’s easy to become complacent when your next video call is an interview for that job you have always wanted.
Don’t stress though as we are here to help!
Distractions:
Just like in life, distractions are everywhere and this is no different when it comes to a video interview.
Environment: It is essential that you choose a quiet area for your interview. While this may be difficult, if you are living with other people, you can inform them of the time of interview and put a sign on the door to remind them and ensure you don’t have any unwanted participants.
Background: When you are testing the webcam or front facing camera, look to see if there is anything in your background that may be distracting to the interviewer. Try to have a neutral background for your video interview and choose a well-lit area to avoid bad lighting.
Mobile: Switch your mobile to silent mode ahead of your interview, just as you would for a face-to-face interview.
Internet/Wifi Connection
It’s important to pre-test your internet and Wi-Fi connection prior to an interview to ensure there are no glaring issues. Google has a straight forward way to carry out the test.
No one likes when the screen freezes – especially in an interview, however, our interview boards will be patient with you so there is no need to panic. Often, if you give it a moment, it will rectify itself.
Technology
Technology, such as webcams and microphones, can be complicated but it’s important that it’s working properly to ensure you get the most out of your interview. To mitigate this scenario, test your microphone and camera ahead of your interview. It may be worth doing a quick practice call with a friend. Alternatively, some video call platforms have a testing feature where you can check your web camera and microphone. It is also worth cleaning your camera lens to ensure that your picture is clear. It’s surprising how much this can help.
Fully Charged You don’t want to be mid-way into your interview and all of a sudden your device shuts off. If you are using a mobile phone for your video interview, this can be very draining on your phone battery. It may be best to have it on charge during the interview. If you are working on your laptop, ensure that it is fully charged ahead of your interview and keep it connected to power if possible.
Body Language
It is easy to lose focus during an interview, especially, when you are doing it from the comfort of your own home. With this sense of familiarity and comfort, it is easy to fall into an overly casual way. Slouched with your eyes drifting off screen will affect the impression that you are giving to the interviewer. It is important to remember that this is still a job interview and you want to convey the same level of interest you would have in a face-to-face interview. It might help you to keep in the mind the principles below for your video interview:
- Dress as you would for a face-to-face interview, business attire;
- Maintain eye contact by looking into the lens of the camera;
- Sit upright, to maintain your posture, which can help to convey an upbeat mood;
- Nod and smile where appropriate to show that you are giving your full attention to the interviewers.
Username and Profile Picture on Video Call:
As we are all using video calls to socialise with friends and family, your username and profile picture may not be your real name or it might even be a funny picture. Although this might have provided great entertainment in your family quiz night, you don’t want it to take the focus away from what you can offer in the role. You should ensure you have a professional or generic background for your interview to ensure all the focus is on you.
If you found these tips useful, you might also enjoy our helpful Guide to Video Interviews to help you feel fully prepared for your next video interview.