5+ Ways to Rock A Video Interview
When you have a job interview coming up, it’s important to ready yourself to the best of your ability. Showing up with your resume in hand in one portion of primping process, but there are so many other things to take into consideration. Depending on the type of interview you are having, which you can review in 6 Types of Interviews, you will want to make sure you are focused, prepared and confident. Let’s get you ready to show your potential new employee just how professional and great of a fit you are!
Be prepared. The Video Interview.
A video interview typically occurs post pre-screening and after the employer has had the opportunity to take an in depth look at your resume and has spoken to you on the phone. There are two options in a video interview. It can range from a set of a questions that the computer program asks you and then prompts you to record your response, or you may speak to a company representative live.
Whichever type of interview it is will be the grounds as to how you will want to prepare appropriately prior. No matter which one it is, take these 5 tips to heart:
- Be a humble superstar. Just like in any other part of the interview process, get familiar with yourself and your skill set. Grab a notebook or a few pieces of lined paper and get ready to get personal…with yourself. Print your resume and the job description and sit down with a pen and paper and start comparing your experience to the job description. What personal qualities do you have that are fitting for the position? How are your goals in line with the mission of the company? What experience do you have that makes you the perfect fit for the company? You can’t prepare too much for this part. The better you get to know yourself, the more confident you will be when asked specific questions about you. Get ready to talk about yourself – not in a over-confident, cocky way, but you also don’t want to be shy or reluctant.
- Know the software. Become familiar with the software you will be using. If you need to download it, then do that before you are ready to sit down and start answering questions. Have any kinks or IT issues worked out so you can smoothly transition from question to question.
- Review the company. Do some research by checking out their website, social media and news updates. Get familiar with what type of company you are applying for a job with and who their target audience is.
- Seclude yourself. Set yourself up in a quiet, uninterrupted space. Let anyone who is home with you know you are about to have an important interview and to not bother you. Grab a glass of water but don’t place it right next to your computer, the last thing you want to do is to spill on your PC! And of course, put your cell phone on silent and if possible, toss it in another room so you won’t be tempted to check your texts.
- Have proper materials ready. Have your resume and the job description printed out and in front of you. Also take your precious notes that detail the humble superstar you are and have those on hand as well. Review these before you begin.
- Wear the appropriate outfit. You may only be seen from the shoulders up, but that doesn’t mean you should show up in a bathrobe and disheveled hair. Review our Interview and Work Attire Guide to figure out the best outfit for you.
Recorded interview
If this the type of interview that you log on in your own time and answer questions after being prompted, take advantage. These type of software platforms normally allow you to take time after the question to get your thoughts together. You won’t want to dilly dally, rather, have your resume, notebook and pen in front of you and jot down (quickly) your rough answer to the question. The time allotted in between questions may only be 60-90 seconds.
Are you being video recorded or only audibly? Remember, professionalism is key. Only because you are doing this interview in the comfort of your own home doesn’t mean you can slack or record like a shlep. You don’t have to be dressed to the nines, but from the waist up, look like you would if you were walking into the office. Again, our Interview and Work Attire Guide will help you out.
Face to face online interview:
- Keep your eyes forward and only glance down at your notes. Don’t get distracted by a load of laundry or dirty dishes, instead be present, focused and clear.
- Since you will be talking to another individual, use communication etiquette. Let them finish their thoughts and don’t interrupt. Respond clearly with concise yet thorough answers.
- You will most likely have the opportunity to ask some questions. You don’t need a dozen questions nor is now the time to discuss compensation or deep inquiries about why the employer likes working there. General questions are good, and specific ones that refer to the company and its mission are best.
You can only prepare as much as you can, so don’t beat yourself up if a wrench is thrown in your path. Next up, the one on one interview!