Here’s how to ace a video interview
Q: During the last few months, most of my interviews were conducted through video conferencing. It took a while for me to get use to talking to a camera rather than in person. What could I be doing to make my video interviews stronger?
A: Employers are looking for ways to save costs during the hiring process, and screening candidates by phone or through video helps them narrow the field of top candidates. While it might save time and costs for the employer, it can be awkward for some to build rapport.
Most interviewers look for five areas when selecting candidates during the screening process, but it pays to be aware that a video interview is different than a faceto-face meeting. Naturally, the more confident you are in exchanging information through a webcam, the more likely you are to build chemistry.
A video interview can be tricky because you have one chance to make a good impression. Preparing in advance can make a huge difference in how well you appear on
video. For example, the location where you interview such as a coffee shop or in your house with children home from school. Background distractions can make or break your chances of moving forward, whereas a face-to-face meeting is less likely to have distractions.
Here are five areas where you can improve your skills for video interviewing:
• Pay extra attention to the interviewer. Watch the interviewer for cues on leading the conversation and asking questions. Expect pauses to happen, so don’t let them throw you off — a short head nod and smile can show that you understand and are paying attention.
• Prepare before the interview. About an hour before the interview, check your background, making sure the lighting is good. Arrange your material for easy viewing near your webcam in case you need support with your answers. Practice talking with friends on Skype — it will help you learn how to communicate.
• Stay mindful. The words you choose to describe yourself and your contributions are powerful. Words paint a picture and tell a story, as does your tone of voice. When you are nervous, you withhold your enthusiasm.
• Non-verbal language speaks loud. Sit straight in your chair and look at the webcam, not the person on screen. The key is to make good eye contact without looking down — the interviewer needs to see you. Make sure you smile as you would naturally during a conversation. Dress professionally. Choosing plain colors rather than busy patterns will help accent your face instead of be a fashion distraction.
• Give strong answers to questions. See yourself as a problem solver because all employers have problems to be solved. Answer questions that relate to the employer’s needs concisely through the job description.