Video interviewing has become all the rage, but let’s face it, it is actually about needs must and that has become the new trend for employers meeting new candidates when hiring!
Whilst some of us have embraced this new way of communicating off the back of already being a FaceTime or Whatsapp queen, then Teams and Zoom is a platform that will probably come naturally to you, but what about those people that are not?
We know the release of new technology is usually grasped by the younger generation the quickest as they love all things techy and gadgetry, but this time it’s different. What if you never used smart videoing before, regardless of age, moving to Teams and Zoom to interview for a new job can be really daunting and finding the confidence overnight to ace an interview can be tough.
So as we do not want anyone to lose sleep over this, we have been working closely with our candidates to overcome their nerves and to prepare you for a new type of interviewing. Here are some tips and hints from Project Start on how to be ready for a video interview: –
- Test your technology – This sounds so simple, but most individuals seem to forget about this major part!
A few days before the interview do a technical trial run to make sure your digital equipment is working correctly. Download any apps or plugins you need, such as Zoom or Teams. Make sure your username is professional and check that your computer’s camera, microphone, and internet connection are working. Do a trial run with a friend or even a family member. Project Start now calls each candidate that they have arranged an interview with and ill do a test run.
- Make sure to put your devices on charge – using a phone, tablet or laptop make sure it’s fully charged on the day of the interview.
- Dress for success – dress as you would for an in-person interview. Doing so will make you feel more confident. Please make sure the bottom half of yourself is visually smart (no pyjama bottoms = no distractions), do not assume you will only be seen from the waist up. Avoid wearing distracting colours and choose clothing that looks neatly pressed while sitting down.
- Set up in a distraction-free location – Try and choose a quiet place that’s free from the distractions of your household. Make sure the background is clutter-free! Set up lighting that’s bright but not glaring, we suggest that natural light is best.
- Be an early bird who is well-prepared – Log in 5 or 10 minutes beforehand so you can be calm and centred when the video interview begins. Make sure you have read over the job description and checked out their website and have notes nearby about the position you have applied for.
- Maintain good eye contact and body language – Look directly into the camera instead of at the screen or even at yourself. Make sure you have positioned your face central and try not to move around as this can be distracting. Keep good posture, sit with your back straight, feet on the ground and arms resting within your lap or on the desk. Grab a cushion for comfort.
- Project your voice – Check your volume controls and speak clearly so the microphone picks up your voice and the interviewer doesn’t have to strain to hear you. It is important to remember that digital connections can sometimes be delayed. To avoid talking over the interviewer or having your first few words cut out, let the interviewer finish the question and then pause for a few seconds before delivering your answer.
- Appreciate the interviewer – Close the video interview by expressing your appreciation, thank the interviewer for the opportunity and ask them what the next step from here would be.
From the Project Start team, we wish you good luck with any future video interviews and all the success in feeling more confident within this digital world. You can do this you are ACE!