How to nail a job interview

Make a great first impressional on video interview

Now more than ever, employers are turning to video calls as a remote and convenient way to scope potential employees. In a practice where candidates are left to make their best impressions through the screen, a few extra preparations can give you the best shot at success.

General Manager at HB Recruitment, Anne Selman, says the key to nailing a video call interview is maintaining professionalism, even if you’ve just shifted from your couch to your desk. “Unfortunately, distractions at home can create interruptions, which potentially creates a less professional impression,” she says.

So while it may seem obvious, close your windows, lock the door and set yourself up in the right setting. Not only for the employer to learn about you, Ms Selman says the interview is a time for candidates to be observant of the workplace.

“It is usually more difficult for the candidate to undertake a video interview as they don’t get the opportunity to observe the office, meet potential colleagues, or evaluate the energy and culture of the work environment,” she says.

A big part of this is the pre- and post-interview small talk. While it’s still possible to chat about the weather and weekend plans over a video call, technology can make things a bit stagnant.

“(Over video call), the usual small talk is sometimes limited which can create a more stifled meeting,” Ms Selman says.

However, this surface level chat shouldn’t be overlooked as it reveals character. “Small talk is the ‘icebreaker’ and is imperative in determining the candidate’s personality and subsequent cultural fit to the team,” Ms Selman says.

Job interviews are a two-way street, so it’s also crucial for the candidate to ask questions back.

“Make sure that you have some questions to ask at the end of the interview,” Ms Selman says, “as no questions can reflect no interest in the role.

“A good question is always to ask expected recruitment timeframes.”