We are certainly in unprecedented times and who knows what our world will look like when this is all said and done. Local and global social distancing requirements in response to the outbreak of COVID-19 have affected companies large and small. Businesses that are hiring have moved most, if not all, of their hiring and onboarding processes to the virtual world. Video interviewing has become commonplace as employers seek ways to keep their employees and candidates safe.
If you are actively looking for a job, you will likely experience a video interview. Even before the pandemic struck, video interviews were on the rise and are here to stay. Human Resource departments like remote interviewing because these types of interviews are easy to schedule and less expensive than in-person interviews. Video conferencing is ideal for high-volume recruiting campaigns because they allow interviewing of large numbers of candidates quickly and easily. These types of interviews are recorded or pre-recorded and then watched as hiring staff's schedules allow.
Candidates – are you scheduled for a video interview? Lucky you! You have made it to the next step in the hiring process.
1. Test your technology
Check your laptop, video camera, and audio to verify they are working correctly. Also, make sure to test your internet connection and download any required video programs well before your interview. Also, have a backup plan – like a smartphone or a tablet.
2. Remember to be prepared
I can't stress this
enough – do your homework just like you would for any other interview. Know your future employer and rehearse your
responses to key interview questions. It
is even a smart idea to prepare your questions for the interviewer.
3. Dress appropriately
Remember to always dress
for success! The proper attire is no
less important for remote interviews, so dress like you would for an in-person
interview in a complete outfit. Avoid very
dark or bright colors, and complicated patterns as these don't translate well
on camera. Softer shades like pastels
and neutral colors work well. White can cause hotspots on the camera lens and
blind the viewer. It's best to avoid
jewelry that is sparkly or makes noise. You don't want to compete for attention with
your clothes or accessories.
4. Remove distractions
Ensure your surroundings
are clean and tidy, and your background is free of clutter. Find a quiet place to be so that you are free
of barking dogs, young children, anything that can be a distraction. Unless you are using your smartphone for the
interview, put it on airplane mode or turn it off.
5. Be personable
Do your best to focus on
your interviewer and make eye contact, smile often, and engage with the
interviewer to show your enthusiasm for your new role. Try to keep hand gestures to a minimum. Be sure to thank your interviewer and let
them know you want the job before the interview ends.
6. Follow-up
Just as important as any
of the points above, send a quick follow-up email to your interviewer(s). Thank them again for their time and restate
how interested you are in the position and that you hope to hear from them
soon. Thank you emails are important,
and will make you stand out from your competition.
Video interviewing is gaining popularity, and we need to embrace it now. Just like with in-person interviews, preparation is vital for online meetings. Your first video interview can be a strange and uncomfortable experience, and there's much to consider. Set up your interview space and download your program well ahead of time.
The video interview is like all other interviews. It's your chance to shine. Remember to relax, think of the interview as a conversation, and try to make personal connections. Be professional but friendly. Use our tips above, and you'll have a high chance of succeeding and showing your future employer that you're the right person for the job.