The rise of technology has transformed many aspects of our lives, including the job search process. Video job interviews are increasingly becoming a popular tool used by companies to evaluate job candidates. This method has a number of advantages, including cost-efficiency, convenience, and speed. However, it can also be daunting for some candidates who may not be used to communicating via video.
To help you make the most of a video job interview, we have put together some suggestions and tips on how to ace your next video job interview.
Advantages of a Video Interview
One of the primary advantages of a video job interview is that it can save time and money for both the candidate and the company. This is especially useful when the company is interviewing candidates who live far away or overseas. Moreover, video job interviews can speed up the process, as companies can avoid delays caused by coordinating travel schedules for multiple people.
Preparing for a Video Interview
The following are some steps to take before and during a video job interview to help you feel more confident and better prepared:
1. Get Formal Training: Seek help from a job coach or career development office at your university to gain further assistance and refine your skills.
2. Rehearse Thoroughly: Practice with family and friends to get a sense of how you look on a webcam. You may also want to warm up by having a casual chat before your real interview.
3. Dress Appropriately: Take a shower, wear your best suit, and ensure your outfit is appropriate for the position you are applying for. Women may want to apply makeup slightly more vividly than usual to show up well on camera.
4. Create a Professional Backdrop: Arrange a backdrop with a bookcase or plants and ensure there is no clutter in the background. Sitting against a scuffed up wall should be avoided.
5. Arrange Your Lighting: Natural light is ideal, but if it is insufficient or you are in a dark timezone, consider using a desk lamp.
6. Watch Your Body Language: Sit up straight and angle your body slightly to look less stiff. Act natural yet professional.
During the Video Interview
1. Prepare for Glitches: Be sure to ask your interviewer in advance what to do if you lose your connection to show that you are proactive.
2. Make Eye Contact: Look into the webcam to give the impression of making eye contact with the interviewer. Do not make the mistake of looking at the image of the interviewer on the screen.
3. Monitor Your Facial Expressions: You want to look animated even while you are listening to someone else. Try reducing your own image and lining it up near the webcam to allow you to look at it inconspicuously without breaking eye contact.
4. Minimize Note-Taking: You may want to record the session to avoid taking extensive notes. Memorize the questions you want to ask to prevent looking down frequently.
5. Work on Your Closing: Remember to thank your interviewer and ask about the next stages in the process.
Conclusion
The use of video interviews is becoming more common in the hiring process. By following these tips, you can demonstrate your skills and potential to the interviewer and make a positive impression. With the right preparation and practice, you can ace your next video job interview and land your dream job.
