Today video interviews are definitely part of the normal hiring process. They can be part of the initial conversations but widely used for the whole hiring process. If you have one coming up, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with all the variables so you are fully prepared.
Set the scene
Test audio and camera.
Elevate your laptop to ideally eye height
Position yourself at a desk/table. against a plain, neutral background.
Close all other applications on your laptop.
Silence your phone and disable vibration.
Exclude children, pets etc from the room. Hang a door sign if you need to.
Ready yourself
Dress professionally. (Not just waist up, in case you need to get up!)
Attach post-it notes (securely) around the laptop screen with prompts & questions.
Have a copy of your CV at hand.
Have pen & paper ready.
Have a glass of water next to you.
The phone number of the interviewer in case the connection is lost.
Research
Fully research the role & company in depth.
Are you clear how you will add value?
practice behavioural questions using C.A.R.L. (I’ll do a follow up on this)
Reach out to someone already in that role.
You're on camera
Look into the camera, not the screen. Eye contact is key.
Smile.
Don’t be late, be on time!
Follow up
As with any job interview, you should conclude by thanking the interviewer for their time. Send a “thank you” email. Include any detail that supports points in your conversation (keep it simple) This will help build a stronger connection with your potential employer and help you progress to the next step.
The what if's
there’s always a chance things could go wrong. Here are some backup plans to have ready just in case. These are the top 3.
If your video or audio stops working
Before the interview, ask the interviewer for a phone number where you can reach them if you experience technical difficulties. If the video cuts out, call them at that number. Ask if you can continue the interview by phone or if you can reschedule.
If noise interrupts the conversation
If noises (sirens, construction, etc.) interrupt your video interview, apologize for the interruption and ask for a few moments until the noise has subsided. You may want to mute the microphone if the noise is severe.
If someone enters the room unexpectedly
Apologise to the interviewer, ask for a few moments, mute your microphone and turn off your camera, and then step away to deal with the interruption.
You are more ready for it than before, so nail it!
Jason Bushby
Director @ Candoo.co.uk | Helping people build great teams
Comments