8 Tips for Acing Your Video Interview
Whether it’s conducted on Teams, Zoom, Skype, Google Meet or a company-specific platform, video interviews are here to stay. Just like traditional in-person interviews, preparation is key. That’s why it is important to consider everything from your internet connection to what you’re going to wear for your remote interview. By taking into consideration key elements in advance, you’ll have more confidence and stand out from other applicants.
Keep these 8 tips in mind as you prepare to tackle your next video interview.
Top Video Interview Tips
Be sure to check that your computer/internet/Wi-Fi are all working properly. Missing an opportunity due to a technical glitch is frustrating!
Be sure you have a professional background – situate yourself in front of blank wall or a somewhere that is clean, neat and not distracting for the interviewer.
Dress for Success! Dress as though you were going for an in-person interview – the interviewer will be impressed, and your brain will register that you are dressed for something important. Simple, not fussy clothes will look better – a well-tailored jacket always makes the best impression. You can check ahead of time how your clothes will look through the webcam.
Be sure to look straight at the interviewer. Looking away or down does not inspire confidence.
Sit up straight! Don’t be a slouch!
Be sure you have good (not harsh) lighting on your face so the interviewer can see you clearly.
Be sure the Zoom/Teams/Skype/whatever interview is DISCONNECTED when done. You really do not need the interviewer to hear your comments about them by mistake.
You don’t want to be stiff but be sure to watch random gestures you may make when under stress (playing with your hair for example). It is okay to use hand gestures if you are like me – (I talk with my hands!) Moderation in all things!
Overall, just be yourself. With preparation and careful consideration of details, you will convey the value you bring to a future employer. Don’t forget to take note of the names and emails of everyone you interviewed with so you can send a follow-up email to personally thank them for their time. If all goes well, you will get the call back that you’re looking for!