How To Light An Interview
Placing lights in the proper place makes a world of difference and is pretty simple to set up. The three point lighting technique is the recommended basic set up for one camera:
- Main/Key light: Place close to the camera at about a 45 degree angle from your interviewee.
- Fill light: Place this light opposite the main light and adjust to fill in shadows be sure it doesnt compete with the main light.
- Backlight/Hair Light: Also at a 45 degree angle from your interviewee, this light should be positioned high behind your interviewee and to the side.
Figuring out how to light an interview takes some adjustments so practice before you get to set. When you do it right, your use of shadow and light with all three lights will create a sense of depth between your interviewee and the background.
Minimize Potential Distractions And Interruptions
Most video interviews take place at home. This increases the risk of roommates, partners, children, or pets barging into the room unexpectedly or being loud. Its distracting for you and its distracting for those interviewing you.
Before the interview, inform everyone in your household what youre doing and let them know the approximate length of the interview. Tell them you need quiet so you can focus. Eliminate distractions by turning off the TV, silencing your cell phone, and closing doors and windows to muffle background noises and keep pets out of the room.
You should be entirely focused on your interview. Minimize distractions in advance.
Applicants should ensure cellphones and laptops are fully charged before the virtual interview to avoid midstream cut-offs. Distractions such as phones ringing, people talking, and excessive notetaking take away from the candidates ability to positively appeal to the interviewer.
Ashley Watkins, certified resume writer, job search & interview coach at WriteStepResumes
Practice Your Video Interview Skills Ahead Of Time
If youre not used to video chat, you might find carrying on a conversation to be a bit awkward at firstespecially if you can see yourself as well. Setting up a mock video interview with a friend or career coach can help you zero in on anything you need to watch out for, Turner says. Maybe you have a tendency to look away from the camera or maybe your natural hand gestures are too low to be seen. Turner also recommends recording your practice. When you play it back youll notice if youre making eye contact, fiddling with papers, your posture is bad, she says. Then you can make adjustments accordingly.
Muse career coach Eloise Eonnet, who specializes in public speaking, presentation, and communication skills, stresses answering questions in practice the same way you would in a real interview, especially when it comes to talking about key pieces of your background. Dont say the names and numbers you need to say out loud for the first time in the interview, Eonnet saysyou dont want to get nervous and stumble over them or say something incorrect.
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Check The Following Settings
This is your first video, so dont worry about things being perfect.
When you launch, youll be asked about how you want to join the audio:
For your first time, I suggest you Test Computer Mic & Speakers
Ideally, you have an external microphone. I use a cheap, $30 USB headset mic and it works great.
If you dont see the prompt above, you can always go to the settings here:
I also suggest you check the video settings.
Youll be on the settings window:
Go to the video tab and make sure its set to 16:9
Advanced settings tips:
- Put your notes close to the camera: Put anything you plan to look at close to where your computer camera is so youre not staring off into space during the recording.
- Change your settings for screen share: If youre doing a screen share, not just videos of faces, be sure to set Optimize for full screen mode or youll end up with a wonky aspect ratio.
The Video Interview Process
- The company selects candidates for video interviews.
- Arrangements for an interview are scheduled.
- The company will provide instructions on how the interview will work.
- There will typically be 10 – 15 questions related to the job the company is hiring for.
Other than you’re not meeting the interviewer in-person, the interview process will be the same as an in-person interview. The interviewer’s objective is the same. You will be asked the same type of interview questions. Also, be prepared to ask questions, as well.
What’s most important is to consider this type of interview is just as important as if you were meeting the interviewer in their office. The value, for yourself as well as for the hiring manager, is equivalent, and interviewing successfully, however it takes place, is the key to getting hired.
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What Do You Know About Our Company
There is no reason that you shouldnt be able to answer this question. Thanks to the internet, you can easily look up anything you need to know about a company. The recruiter or hiring manager is asking this to see if youve done your research prior to the interview, therefore, make certain that you do. Research the company by browsing their website, reading articles about their accomplishments, and checking out their social media accounts to get an idea of their company culture. You dont need to recite every single fact you find, but make sure you mention at least some of the following:
- The type of product or service the company sells
- How long the company has been in business
- The companys recent accomplishments
- What the company culture is like and how it relates to your values and personality
The Benefits Of Virtual Interviews
Its not hard to understand why video interviews are so popular. They provide hiring teams with much more insight into job applicants than resumes or phone interviews ever could. They also transcend geographical limitations, opening doors to a larger candidate pool so recruiters can find top talent anywhere.
The benefits of video interviewing extend to candidates as well. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to showcase your winning personality and your strengths. By expressing yourself confidently and authentically, you can persuade hiring managers to select you over your competition.
While its understandable to have some nerves when attempting something new, most video interviews take place in the comfort of your home. This means you have greater control of your surroundings, which can help applicants feel more at ease during the interview. In the case of pre-recorded interviews, you can record your answers to interview questions whenever its convenient. You dont have the added stress of navigating a new space on your way to an in-person interview, so you can relax and focus on being calm and collected.
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Notify Candidates As Soon As Possible
Video interviews, when done correctly, can be just as effective as in-person interviews. The transition to remote interviews may also be to your benefit when working from home, candidates dont have the added stress of coordinating interviews with their in-office work schedule.
Nonetheless, its still a change they need to prepare for. Provide them with clear directions on the equipment theyll need to join the interview internet access, software or video conferencing applications, a quiet space, etc. and emphasize that the change is out of concern for their health and safety, along with that of your employees.
Additionally, communicate expectations as you would for an onsite interview so the candidate is well-prepared for and comfortable with any adjustments. Use the following video interview invitation template to get started.
Subject Line: : Video Interview Availability
Hi ,
Thank you for applying to the position at .
After reviewing your application, we would like to invite you to interview with , our .
So we can get to know you better, the interview will be conducted over video using and last about in total.
We want you to be able to plan accordingly, so weve provided a list of date and time options over the next week. Please take a look, and let us know which date is best for you.
Were looking forward to continuing the conversation.
Best,
Have Your Interview Answers Ready
If you receive the questions in advance, you have received a fabulous opportunity to be well-prepared. Its like being handed the keys to the kingdom. Script out your answers in advance, remembering to tell clear and concise stories that are examples of your accomplishments.
If you dont receive the questions in advance, which is unfortunately more likely, be prepared to answer the standard job interview questions.
Focus on the challenges you faced, the actions you took, and the results you attained.
During the interview, have a copy of the job description and your resume or application available to reference if necessary.
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Remember To Stay Responsive After You Wave Goodbye
After you end your call, be sure not to ghost your interviewer. Download the Handshake app to ensure that you respond to recruiter messages promptly, and check your email at least twice per day to stay abreast of any outreach or next steps that might land in your inbox!
With these tips in your back pocket, youll have all the keys to succeed in your video interview. Now all you have to do is find the right opportunity! Check out this helpful advice for finding a job or internship online, and discover ways to make the most of a remote internship once youve got an offer.
Why Hiring Managers Should Avoid One
Theres no denying that technology has improved hiring for both businesses and candidates alike. An applicant tracking system eliminates our spreadsheets and clogged email boxes. Video tools like Zoom or Google Hangouts make remotely interviewing easy, especially in the context of a global pandemic. All in all, these tools have made connecting businesses and job seekers easier.
But hiring technology also needs to revolve around a constant dialogue: how do we automate processes and save time without sacrificing the key to finding the right people for our teams? In other words: How do we keep hiring human?
Its crucial for hiring managers to evaluate your hiring technology and processes so they not only remove administrative and manual work, but foster more connection with candidates, not less. Hiring software should help surface high potential candidates without serving unconscious bias and poor candidate experiences.
As the Director of HR for CareerPlug and a user of our own hiring software, I have real fear about hiring technology trends that appear to widen the rift between companies and candidates with more automated, impersonal, and even dehumanizing interactions.
One of the most troubling trends Ive seen is the rise of the one-way video interview.
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Why Should We Hire You
Step 1. Figure out what the company wants/needs most. If you want to get hired for a good job, you need to make your interview answers about THEM, not you.
The fastest and easiest way to know what they need is to look at the job description. What do they mention most often? What is emphasized near the top or mentioned first?
Step 2. Now that you know what they want for this job opening, you need to give it to them.
You should tell them that you did some research, mention what you noticed about the jobs requirements, and then highlight your skills and experience that fit best with what they need! Give specific examples if you can.
Lets say youre going to talk about leadership. Dont just say, yes, I led some people in my last job, leadership wont be a problem for me.
Tell them how many people you led, what topics you guided them on, what you learned as a leader. And then remember to show that youre interested in leading, or that you enjoy it as well!
Its important to show that you WANT to be doing the type of work they need. Being able to do something doesnt mean youll necessarily be interested, motivated and happy in the job. To put their mind at ease you need to show excitement and a genuine interest in working with the areas youre talking about!
Tips For A Successful Video Job Interview
Do you have a video interview on your schedule? As hiring becomes global and more employees work remotely, video interviews have become commonplace.
For hiring managers and recruiters, they’re a way to quickly conduct first-round interviews, save on transportation costs, and get the interview process started much faster than scheduling in-person interviews.
For some positions, the entire process may be handled virtually, while others may have a combination of video and in-person interviews.
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Study Your Body Language
You need to study and be aware of your body language before a video interview. Sometimes a video interview can feel more informal, and this mindset may negatively affect your posture. Sit in your chair with your back straight and your shoulders open. Plant your feet on the floor and rest your arms in your lap or on the desk.
Eye contact is very important during an in-person interview. To maintain eye contact during a video interview, avoid the instinct to look directly at your interviewer on the screen while you’re answering a question. Instead, when you speak, you want to direct your gaze at the webcam. When you do this, your eyes are more likely to align with the interviewer’s eyes on the other end. When you’re listening, you can look back at the screen.
Also whilst listening, nod and smile when appropriate to communicate that you’re giving them your full attention. Use hand gestures when it feels appropriate and keep your movements close to your body. Avoid fidgeting or letting your gaze drift away from the device.
Kinds Of Questions To Ask In A Video Interview
Interviews can take unexpected turns, so prepare questions in advance. This will guide your interview and ensure you dont forget any key information. If youre wondering what kind of questions are asked in a video interview, consider the following as a guideline.
- Avoid asking yes or no questions. They arent going to provide any value for your viewer.
- Use warm-up questions to break the ice. Things like name, about the company, and role.
- Make sure theyre relevant. For example, if youre trying to get over the objection of your product being hard to use, you could ask a client, How easy was it for you to get up and running with our product.
- Specific questions will yield specific answers. Prompt your interviewee to provide concrete examples or answers. For example, What are three ways you have developed stronger relationships with your customers?
- Follow up with follow up questions. If your interviewee doesnt provide a clear or concise answer to your question, ask them to clarify further or try to reframe.
- End with a final thoughts question. After youve completed your questions, ask your interviewee if they have any final thoughts or would like to share anything elsesometimes the best soundbites come after the main interview has concluded.
Once you have a list of questions, order them in a cohesive flow. Start out with some easy ones, and then move on to the more in-depth .
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What Is Your Dream Job
This question trips a lot of people up because usually your dream job isnt exactly the job youre interviewing for .
So are you supposed to say that this job is your dream job? No! you dont have to lie.
Heres what to do: Instead of saying a job title in your answer, just DESCRIBE what your dream job looks like.
Talk about what qualities would make a job exciting to you. And make sure youre tailoring your answer to what this company offers! Again, you dont have to lie just think about making sure your answer isnt opposite to what this job involves.
So heres the process in bullet points:
- Never use a specific job title. Use words that describe what your dream job would look like.
- Choose at least two phrases or words, and pick things related to the job youre interviewing for.
- Finish by showing the interviewer that you did some research about them, and explain why youre interested in their job.
Example: My dream job would be a combination of creating products that are making a difference in the world and getting a chance to share them with as many people as possible. I was excited about this position because I read that millions of people use your companys products each day and it seems like the work youre doing is having a big impact worldwide.
How To Film An Interview Like The Pros Plus Examples We Love
Weve all seen them: interview videos that are hard to watch.
Maybe you can sense the interviewee is uncomfortable or they have shadows on their face or something just seems off. Whether youre a seasoned filmmaker refreshing your memory on how to film an interview or a business owner finally hitting record on your iPhone, this guide is designed to help you embrace the experience.
More than fancy equipment, the way you approach filming an interview and especially the preparation you do ahead of time will make the process and product better all around.
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Why Did You Leave Your Last Job
How to answer if you willingly left your last job:
Never bad-mouth your former company. Itll immediately make the interviewer wonder if you were the reason the problem occurred.
So I like to use a strategy I call More Of Its a trick I use to turn negatives into positives. You do this by saying you changed jobs or left your past job to get more of something. Instead of saying my last job didnt give me enough chance to lead , youd say, I wanted more of a chance to lead.
Another phrase you can use that I like I felt ready for ____
Just fill in the blank with what you want more of in your next position. Leadership. Technical challenges. Teamwork and cooperation. Opportunity to learn a new area. Project management. More interaction with clients. Etc.
And this is crucial: make sure whatever you say you want more of is something this company offers! Dont say you want more project management if you wont be managing any projects in this new job. Why would they hire you? Theyll think you wont enjoy it and wont stay for long enough to be worth hiring!
How to answer if you were fired or laid off:
If you were laid off, just be straight forward and explain why. My department had a 50% reduction and I was a part of the layoff.
If you were fired, follow these steps:
1. Be up-front and take responsibility
2. Show that youve learned/changed so it wont happen again
3. Practice your answer so you do not hesitate. Delivery is key!
