After the COVID-19 pandemic ravaged the globe, many things have changed, including how people interview for jobs. While online interviews were certainly present before the pandemic hit, they have become the norm, and this efficient trend will continue well into the future.
Online job interviews make things easy for the employer and the prospective employee. Usually, an online video interview is arranged for a remote position or a quick first-round meeting. However, if you are new to video interviews, it can feel intimidating. Knowing how to prepare for it can give you the confidence to ace it while proving why you would make the ideal candidate.
Practice, Practice, Practice!
Just because it’s an online interview, it doesn’t mean that you can underestimate preparation. Rehearse how to respond to potential questions naturally and focus on allowing the interviewer to finish before you start to speak. Speak clearly and leave a pause after the interviewer finishes their question because video calls often experience slight delays. Remember, the more you practice, the more confident you will be!
Test Your Technology
You cannot have an online video interview over a glitchy or slow connection, so you must ensure your internet speed can support the technology. To ensure maximum signal speed, disconnect other devices connected to the internet, such as smart appliances or a digital assistant. Don’t forget to charge your laptop and wireless earbuds.
Before the interview, make a test call to a friend or family member to ensure that your internet connection and microphone support high-quality live video. This will allow you to address any potential issues you may have beforehand.
Set Up A Quiet Space
Select an appropriate location for your interview. Ideally, a quiet room with adequate natural lighting and no distractions would be good. At the same time, you must pay attention to details like setting up your screen at eye level. If needed, you can do this by placing it on a stack of books. Remove anything in the background, like artworks or photos, as it could be distracting. If the room does not have natural lighting, you can also use a ring light if you have one.
Take Notes
Have a pen and notebook next to you to jot down important information quickly. You could also take notes on the computer. Nevertheless, you must alert the interviewer that you will be taking notes so they will not misinterpret your activity as a lack of interest. When you take notes, you can also use some reference points in a follow-up email or second interview.
Keep Your Resume Ready
You can have a printed copy of your resume ready so you can consult it during the interview. If you have it on your computer, make sure that pulling it up would not obscure your view of the interviewer. Having your resume for reference allows you to highlight key dates or responsibilities.
Start Early
Set up your online platform a few minutes before your interview. This shows professional courtesy and gives you time to fix any technology issues. Showing that you’re ready and eager to start the interview makes a positive first impression on the hiring manager.
Dress Smart
While attending an online video interview from your home is convenient, you should still dress up for your video interview with the same care as in an in-person interview. If you usually wear a suit, go for it. If the job you’re applying for has a less formal work environment, you can ask your HR contact if there is a specific dress code to follow.
Focus On The Interviews And Be An Active Listener
Look at the webcam instead of your video image to ensure that your attention is focused on the hiring manager. If it helps, you can check the settings and turn off your view of yourself if that’s less distracting.
Simultaneously, you can also use active listening techniques to show your engagement with the interviewer. You can indicate your understanding with an affirmative word or nod. Let the interviewer finish and take a few seconds to process the question before you respond with thoughtful answers. If you need time to formulate an answer, you can ask clarifying questions or ask the interviewer to restate their question.
Have A Backup Ready
You never know what sudden technology-related issue will arise, so make sure that you have backup resources and equipment ready. You can have a backup internet or hotspot, an extra device, and a pair of headphones in case your device or main connection is affected.
Prepare Your Questions
Preparing answers for the interview is essential, but preparing questions of your own is a good idea too. You can ask the interviewer about the job requirements, specific questions like salary and benefits package, or company values. Asking such questions where the interviewer shares additional information about what they expect from the perfect candidate can help you in the next stage of interviewing.
Final Thoughts
Video interviews utilize contemporary technology, but the traditional interview rules are still very applicable. In addition to the tips mentioned above, make sure that you research the company and the position you are applying for. Be courteous in your interaction, and once the interview concludes, follow up with the same level of urgency as you would for an in-person interview.
