Video interview: get ready for yours

In coronavirus times, online solutions are more popular than ever. And so are video interviews. Companies around the world are adjusting their processes to the virtual model so that projects do not stop while those involved remain safe and sound in their home offices. 

If you are participating in a selection process, be ready: your next interview might be a video one. And there is no reason to think that you can’t guarantee just the same quality and assertiveness of a face-to-face interview. Ready for tips?

1. Connectivity is everything

This is not only about Internet quality or speed. With so many tools available for a virtual conversation, it is important that you are familiar with the one the interviewer chooses (ask in advance, by the way). The main ones are Google Hangouts, Zoom, Skype, Webbex, Teams and Appear.

Make a test call, check audio and video configurations. If technical problems still happen, no problem. Keep the contact of the person in charge of the interview at hand and report the situation.

TIP: The video camera replaces the face-to-face contact in the virtual interview. Be sure of the quality of your image to create a connection with the interviewer.

2. Look around

Remember: you are in an office. The environment must be neutral, without any distractions to you or the interviewer. Every inch of what appears on the camera must be free and organized. Try the place in advance so that you don’t need to rush at the last minute, avoiding anxiety. Also, close the browser windows that you are not using and don’t forget to keep your devices silent. Be focused!

TIP: The biggest challenge for people working in home offices is not to be interrupted by other people, children, or pets. Look for a place where you can be really by yourself and make clear rules about your working space and times. If an inconvenience happens, just breath, apologize, fix the problem, and resume your talk. The goal is to keep the conversation going.

3. Your image counts

The interviewer will be evaluating the same aspects he would if it were a face-to-face interview: posture, outfit, facial expressions, voice tone. Dress professionally. Sit straight and keep the eye contact to engage the interviewer.

TIP: Be yourself in the interview. Smile and try your best to reduce the distance created by the virtual meeting.

4. Be clear (keep your notes close)

One of the advantages of being online is being able to have the main points you want to discuss at hand. This also helps lower the anxiety. After revisiting your professional trajectory, your main projects, results achieved, strengths and development areas, make notes and keep them where you can see. You can take a quick and discreet look when necessary, but your speech must be clear and natural.

TIP: Communication failures are quite common in the virtual environment. Don’t hesitate to ask the interviewer to repeat a question that you don’t understand. Be aware of the conversation timing: wait a few seconds before answering a question, to make sure the interviewer has finished speaking.

In the video interview, you can and should have complete control of the situation. You don’t have to worry about the traffic jam, for example. You can also choose a comfortable and familiar place to talk. You can keep your notes at hand. Stick to your plan: use the tips above, get all the details right, and relax. It’s going to be great!