Top Tips for Video Interviews

Video Interviews are increasing in popularity. Partially due to the increasing quality of video calling software and partially due to the convenience of these meetings. However, video conferencing is still a relatively new method of meeting so to help you prepare, here are our top tips for succeeding at video interviews.

Do not underestimate the importance of this Interview

While face to face events and meetings are being postponed or even cancelled, a video interview could be your main interview so don’t underestimate the importance of this interaction. Prepare as you would for an in-person interview and take it as seriously.

Preparation is imperative

Fail to prepare, prepare to fail

Just like face to face interviews preparation is vital and failing to do so will likely harm your performance in the interview.

The Basics

• Do you know the interviewers’ names and job titles?
• Do you know how they will be contacting you, for example, skype, WhatsApp or another video meeting software provider?
• Make yourself familiar with the software instructions.

The Questions

“Tell me about yourself” – An interview opening classic.

If you’ve been to an interview before then you may be aware of the usual interview questions, but here they are again for your convenience.

You need to be able to master questions about:

• Your previous career history.
• Reasons for leaving previous employers.
• Any gaps on your CV.
• Your skills and experience.
• Qualifications and Educations.
• What you have found out about the company? (AKA have you done your research?)
• Why you want this role?
• What you think makes you the right candidate?

Bonus tip: Write notes on cue cards or a thick paper to avoid any loud shuffling!

Presentation is still Important

Dress to impress and don’t look like this guy…

Dress as you would to attend a face to face interview, professionally suited and booted for the role.

Location

Make sure you are somewhere quiet and free from distractions. If you can find a blank wall to sit in front of, this will help the interviewer to focus only on you. If it’s not possible to sit in front of a wall then at least make sure that any areas or surfaces in shot are clear and tidy.

Connection

Is your internet connection strong? Find somewhere with good signal, you don’t want to video to freeze while the interviewers are asking a question or while you are giving your answers.

Equipment

Is your equipment up to date? Is it capable of running the latest versions of the software needed? Will you be using a laptop or a mobile phone? If you are using a mobile phone, use a stand so you are free to use your hands while speaking.

Following these tips, you will be well on your way to making a fantastic first digital impression on your potential employers.

Glen Callum has a wealth of experience in International recruitment so we are well placed to assist you in your remote recruitment activity. If you have any further questions or want to know more about offering video interviews as part of your recruitment process, call our expert recruitment team on 01384 4858274.