Video Interviewing: Achieving Your Best “On-Screen Performance”

As telecommuting becomes more and more common, it’s no surprise that the interview process is becoming increasingly more virtual as well. You may have been asked to do a phone interview (see tips for mastering the call) – but what about a video interview? According to a survey conducted among DirectEmployers Members earlier this year, nearly half of the employers surveyed said that they do indeed conduct video interviews.¹ If you’ve never had a video interview before, this can be an intimidating request. Here are some tips to help you prepare and ensure that your interview is a success.

Before Your Video Interview

First, if you are asked to do a video interview and you don’t have a webcam (or have access to one), do not hesitate to tell them so. Simply ask if you can arrange a phone interview or an in-person meeting instead. If you are moving ahead with a phone interview, it is important to understand that there are two ways this may take place. It may be a live call where you are connected with an interviewer on a platform such as Skype or even a Google Hangout, or you may be sent a URL where you can log in and record answers to predetermined questions for recruiters to view later.

Not surprisingly, it is absolutely vital that you test your equipment beforehand – and that includes both the camera and your microphone or headset. In an attempt to catch any technical glitches before the day of the interview, ask a friend to do a test run. Of course, technical difficulties may still occur but this will give you a better idea of how your equipment is working.

Your internet speed may also play a factor in the video quality. If the speed is too low, the audio may sound garbled and the picture may not be very clear, which can be very frustrating for both parties. If you experience issues during your test run and are unable to improve your bandwidth, try to find another quiet space where you can hold your interview such as at a family member’s home.

You should also consider the space where you will be conducting the video interview. During your test run, pay attention to what you can see in the screen behind you. Clean up your space, remove clutter and distracting or inappropriate items, and make sure there is plenty of light. Depending on what time of day you are having your interview, or even what the weather is like on that particular day, you may need to bring in additional lighting to ensure that your interviewers can see you clearly.

If your camera is not built into your computer, be sure to position it above your computer screen just above your eye-line (even with the top of your head) and angled down. This tends to be a better angle than an embarrassing, up-the-nose shot from down below.

Now let’s talk attire. Dress shirt and tie on top, sweatpants on bottom, right? Out of sight, out of mind. You may have heard the myth that you only need to dress professionally from the waist up, but what happens if you are asked to stand up (yes, that happens) or need to run and grab a document that you forgot? To be safe, wear the complete outfit you would wear to an in-person interview.

As always, be sure to prepare for your interview by thinking about how you might respond to common interview questions, doing your research on the company, and writing down any questions you may have for your interviewers. Just try not to look down at your notes for long periods of time and avoid reading directly from them.

During Your Video Interview

One of the most important things to remember during a video interview is to “maintain eye contact”. In other words, make sure that you look at the camera when speaking (and therefore at the interviewers) rather that at yourself on the screen. This can be difficult as your natural tendency is likely to look at yourself while you are speaking. Also, be sure to watch your posture. Sit up straight and don’t slouch in your chair, and try to maintain your body language (i.e. talking with your hands) as best as you can.

As with any interview, it is important to have your resume, as well as any other documentation you may need to reference, in front of you – and don’t forget to have pen and paper handy to jot down notes or contact information.

After Your Video Interview

Following up after a video interview is just as important as with an in-person interview. Be sure to reach out to your interviewers and send them a quick thank you – either by mail or email – within a few days. Or, considering the method of your interview, why not stand out and send a thank you video? This is your last chance to impress the recruiter and hopefully earn a second interview!

In the future, if asked to do a video interview, don’t be intimidated. Preparation is key! Just consider this your rehearsal for the in-person interview that you will hopefully earn through your stellar interview skills. Good luck!

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