In our tech driven society, video job interviewing is becoming the preferred method of determining who gets past the first stage of the interview process and who doesn’t. Why? Because it enables organizations to conduct multiple pre-screening interviews in a cost effective manner. Video interviewing is considered a formal interview and the same rules for an in person meeting apply here.
Here’s how you get to the next stage in the interview process:
1. Do an audio and visual check – confirm that you are using the most updated video platform version PRIOR to the interview. Be sure to check the volume is working and decide whether or not to use AirPods, headset or computer audio before scheduled interview. Once you’ve decided your preferred audio, test it and make sure it’s working. Be creative on how to raise your laptop to be eye level so you’re not looking down while on call. Check the lighting wherever you decide to take the call and make sure there is ample light during the call. Desk ring lights are a great tool to have for ensuring proper lighting on video calls.
2. Anticipate & Eliminate Distractions – be sure to shut off your phone (home phone and cell phone) so it doesn’t ring during the interview. In addition, be sure to conduct the interview in a quiet and secure place or room to avoid outside distractions (trucks, buses, etc.). And if you are taking the interview at your home or apartment, don’t forget to put a note on your door to NOT ring the doorbell!
3. Dress up (from head to toe) – while the hiring manager might only see you from shoulders up, don’t take a chance and only wear a nice jacket/shirt/tie/blouse; be sure to dress in complete professional attire. Also, incorporate color into your outfit on that day so that it helps to illuminate your face and give it additional light. Avoid small to medium sized prints or stripes because they project a fuzzy like image. For women, keep jewelry to a minimum since they could potentially project a glare and become a distraction.
4. Communicate with clarity – avoid umm’s, ahh’s and any sort of mumbling that might overcome you on that day. Be sure to speak up and speak clearly. Also, prior to the interview, make sure you conduct a practice run and record your voice. Listen for how your voice projects, the tone, intonation, etc.
5. Showcase your portfolio – just because the interview is a virtual one, be sure to think of ways to illustrate materials that will showcase your talents and support the reasons why you are the best candidate for the job.
Have you experienced any best practices that you would like to share? Let me know in your comments!
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