How To Video Interview Well

Questions Asked In A Video Interview

Now you are fully equipped for your video interview you have a proper video and mic, your interview room is set, and you planned your outfit for the day.

What is left is possibly the hardest part of your interview getting ready for the interview and the questions you will be asked. No matter how great the equipment you have is, at the end of the day your answers will be what determines if you will get the job or not.

There are generally two types of interview questions you can expect:

Common interview questions are general questions meant to give your interviewer a chance to get to know you and your work history. For example, you could be asked to tell more about yourself, describe your most recent position, talk about your weaknesses and strengths, etc.

• Browse Behavioral Questions here.

Industry-specific questions are questions specifically related to a position you are applying for.

For instance, your proficiency in a certain software, a point of sale system, or other tools necessary for doing the job.

• Check out our base of Industry Specific interview questions here

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Preparing answers for your job interview is probably the hardest part of your interview preparation, no matter the type of interview . To ensure you have everything you need we prepared a comprehensive Interview Questions Guide to walk you through all you need to know.

Wear Clothing With Writing On It

Although you might find a t-shirt with a strong motto printed on it empowering, your interviewer will not! Not only does clothing with writing look informal, but it could also send across a message that youre loud-mouthed and set in your ways. If you wouldnt verbally say the words printed on your shirt, its probably best left at the back of your wardrobe or the bin for that matter.

Practice And Tech Set Up

To get used to the technology and the body language of a video interview, its useful to do some practice video calls with friends or family members. Ask them to give you candid feedback about your appearance and eye contact. Run through it a few times until things start to feel natural.

This practice can make all the difference in your interviews. Set aside time in your schedule in the weeks and days leading up to your interviewyoull find your confidence growing as you become more comfortable in front of the camera.

On the day of your interview, review this checklist as youre setting up:

• Ensure that you wont be interrupted, either by locking the door or by alerting others that you cant be disturbed .

• Clear the desk space, except for a notepad and pen/pencil for you to take notes.

• Have a copy of your resume and any other notes ready for you to reference.

• Set out a glass or bottle of water for yourself.

• Check that your webcam is working.

• Check that your audio is working.

• Close any windows, tabs or applications on your computer that youre not using.

• Check your internet connection and make sure youre not downloading anything in the background.

• Set your phone to silent.

• Check that the background behind you is neutral and free from clutter.

• Adjust the lights in the room. If things appear dark or dim, you may want to bring in an extra desk lamp to brighten the space.

Read more: Follow-up Email Examples for After the Interview

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Pay Attention To Body Language

Your body language in a video interview can convey a lot of things about who you are as a person and potential employee. You can present a positive image by ensuring youre sitting up straight with good posture. Place both feet on the ground, and avoid slouching or holding your head up with your hand. Always try to keep your hands in your lap to avoid distracting gesturing or fiddling.

Its also important to pay attention to where youre looking. Looking at the interviewers face on your computer screen means youre not actually looking into the camera and making eye contact. Instead, look into the camera as often as possible, especially when youre speaking. This will give your interviewer the sense that youre engaged and not distracted by whats happening on your screen.

Use Helpful Lighting Tools

While you do not need to spend a lot on lighting gears, purchasing a few tools can be beneficial. For instance, investing in a ring light will enhance your set up for brighter and better-looking video calls.

You can also invest in a laptop stand to bring the camera to your eye level. This does wonders for ensuring eye contact and reducing unflattering angles. With the tools in place, spend time practicing for interview questions that are coming your way.

Also Check: What To Wear To An Interview Women

Research The Company And Show What You Know

Do your homework and research the employer and the industry, so you are ready for the interview question, “What do you know about this company?” If this question is not asked, you should try to demonstrate what you know about the company on your own.

You can do this by tying what youve learned about the company into your responses. For example, you might say:

I noticed that when you implemented a new software system last year, your customer satisfaction ratings improved dramatically. I am well-versed in the latest technologies from my experience with developing software at ABC, and appreciate a company who strives to be a leader in its industry.

You should be able to find out a lot of information about the companys history, mission and values, staff, culture, and recent successes on its website. If the company has a blog and a social media presence, they can be useful places to look, too.

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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They Can Be Repurposed And Shared

Once you’ve got your interview footage, you’ll have a goldmine of content.

• You can extract some short clips to post on social media and create teaser videos that link to the full version of the interview.
• You can include the interview in a blog post.
• You can attach the interview in a company newsletter.
• You can use the audio for a podcast.
• So much more… keep reading to find out.

Whatever the original purpose was for your video interview, you will certainly discover plenty of different ways to reuse and distribute it.

Do You Need To Have Advanced Computer Skills To Take Part In A Skype Interview

One of the benefits of using software such as Skype is its ease of use.

Skype has been around for a long time. It has lasted because it is simple enough for individuals to use while still having an array of attractive features for business use.

Although it is easy to use, you must practice before your interview.

You also need to download the latest update onto your laptop or tablet in advance of the interview.

There is nothing more unprofessional than missing your interview time because your device is scheduling last-minute updates.

Similarly, you need to make sure you know your login details. You do not want to be flustered by the time you log in to your interview.

You may also want to test your microphone and volume control.

You may wish to invest in an external microphone or a new webcam to maximize the clarity of the conversation.

The noise cancellation feature in Skype is also worth using as it minimizes any background noises and provides a more professional experience.

Read Also: What To Wear To An Interview Women

Project A Confident Tone And Body Language

You never really know how you come across on-screen until you record yourself talking and watch the results. Yes, it can be painful. But it gives you a chance to practise and reveals any unfortunate habits.

If there are questions you know to expect, practise them specifically. Deliver your answer directly to the camera, watch the result, and adjust as necessary for next time.

Read: How to ace a video interview

Meet The Employers Deadline

The good news is that you can usually pick a time for the interview that is the best for you, after work or on weekends if you are employed. The employer usually sets a due date when the interview should be completed. Know that date, and meet that deadline to be considered.

If possible, beat that deadline by several hours or even days. Avoid doing the interview at the last possible moment to make the best impression on the employer.

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Do’s And Don’ts For A Successful Video Interview

Applying for a job in Corona times: the video interview.

Some have already experienced it, a job interview via video. Before the pandemic, most companies still stuck to the “face-to-face” interview. Understandable if you know that our communication is largely supported by non-verbal aspects . What the future will bring is still uncertain but it is expected that the digital switch in our current working methods, will partly be continued.

Because a camera makes communication happen in a slightly different way, I would like to list the most important things for you.

Video Interview Body Language

Eye contact is very important during an in-person interview, and you want to convey that same level of connection during a video interview. Heres how: Avoid the instinct to look directly at your interviewer on the screen while youre 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 interviewers eyes on the other end. When youre listening, you can look back at the screen.

Throughout the interview, keep your mood upbeat and convey optimism with your body language. One way to achieve this is to have good posture. Sit in your chair with your back straight and your shoulders open. Feet can be planted on the floor and arms can rest in your lap or on the desk.

When youre listening, nod and smile when appropriate to communicate that youre 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.

Read Also: System Design Interview Preparation

Have An Intentional Background

When lighting for a video interview, be sure to pay attention to the background. You do not want recruiters drawn away from what you are saying by a messy backdrop. If you can, avoid going up against a wall as this can make you appear flat. Instead, add some depth to the room for natural shooting space. Then, expertly navigate the conversation with some standout interview questions.

Tips For What To Do Next After An Interview

The following are tips on what you can do when waiting to hear back as to if your interview went well:

• Don’t stop applying for jobs until you accept a job offer.

• Follow up with the interviewer if you don’t hear back after a few days.

• Analyze your performance during the interview and determine if there are ways you can improve in your next interview.

• Reach out to your references to see if they were contacted.

• Ask yourself if you are still interested in the position after learning more about the job and the company.

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Make A Great First Impression

One of the best video interview tips we can give you is to have smart answers at the ready. Its time to focus on what youre going to say to win over a potential employer. Need some help preparing smart answers? Join Monster for free today. As a member, youll get interview insights, career advice, and job search tips sent directly to your inbox. Youll learn how to answer questionseverything from why you want the job to what your weaknesses arein such a way that your skills and value shine through, even if youre a hundred miles away.

What Is Your Ideal Work Environment

This question is asked so a recruiter or hiring manager can determine if youd be a good fit for a companys culture. Be honest in your response. If you would work well in a large, bustling office, say so. If you prefer working in a small office so you can easily collaborate with colleagues, explain why this is important to you.

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Job Interview Tips: How To Make A Great Impression

Related video: Ultimate Job Interview Guide – What to Expect Plus Top 6 Tips

You have your job interview scheduledcongratulations! Now its time to prepare, and weve got you covered. Below, we provide an overview of how to succeed in an interview along with a detailed discussion surrounding each point.

Get Your Location Ready

Youll need a quiet room with no interruptions. If you live in a shared house you may need to warn others to be quiet.

Find somewhere you can sit in front of a plain background that will not be distracting. Make sure you have good natural light, or use a lamp so that the interviewer can see you well on screen.

If you can, use a computer or laptop rather than a tablet or mobile phone. Position it so the camera is at eye level. Headphones will improve your sound quality.

You could split your screen and have your prompt cards on one half and the interview on the other.

Before you start you should test your microphone and make sure you know how to use the software, like how to:

• start and end the session
• mute your microphone or turn off your camera

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Try Your Outfit On Before The Big Day

As with any big event, youll need to try your outfit on before the big day. However, when it comes to video interviews, you should test your outfit on a call to see how it looks. A blouse or shirt may seem fine in the mirror, but when youre sat in front of a camera, the light may be unflattering and could even highlight the fact that your shirt is see-through.

Lights Camera Job Offer

Your big break in the job market may be via Skype or another alternative. Some employers are using videoconference technology to screen candidates before hosting on-sit interviews, particularly if many of the candidates are out of state.

Youll find the videoconference interview gives you some of the benefits of a telephone interview , even while you are face-to-face with the interviewer.

Also Check: What To Wear To An Interview Women

Maintain Good Eye Contact And Body Language

Its easier for your eyes to wander when the person youre talking to isnt in the room. Maintain virtual eye contact by looking directly into the camera instead of at the screen or at your own photo. Make sure your face is centered and try not to move around too much. Keep good posture, sitting with your back straight, feet on the ground and arms resting in your lap or on the desk.

Set Up A Good Interviewing Space

Instruct your interviewers to designate a quiet, well-lit space for conducting interviews. The video quality is a huge factor of interview quality if the candidate has trouble hearing or seeing the interviewer, theyre going to have trouble connecting with your company. If your software has a test option, provide candidates with instructions on how to test their audio and video, so theyre confident using the equipment and can focus their energy on preparing for the interview.

Also Check: Preparing For System Design Interview

Communicate Clearly And Briefly

The last element is about the duration of the call and how best to answer. Video interviews are not ideal for wide-ranging explanations. Therefore, formulate your answers briefly and concisely. This ensures clarity and a better chance of convincing the interviewer.

Long conversations give the impression of being one-way traffic, even though it is a conversation between two parties.

Round off the interview well. Summarize your strong points at the end of the interview, ask any additional questions and thank the recruiter for the interest shown.

Good luck!

Get The Hardware You Need

Whenever possible, always do your video call on a laptop with a webcam! Itâs a better experience for you and those on the other end joining a video call from a mobile phone can come across unprofessional if not done properly. If you have to take the call from your phone, try to get a stand to stabilize things.

Pro tip: Always wear headphones on a video call, especially if itâs an interview! Youâll get clearer audio, reduce the chances that youâll get an echo, and minimize surprise background noise. While you can go as fancy as youâd like on a headset, the earbuds with a microphone that come with most mobile phones will also do the trick.

How to position the webcam for a virtual interview

Try to position the webcam just above eye level and about two feet away from you. If youâre working with a smaller laptop and donât have a laptop stand, you can always sit your laptop on top of some books during your interview to get your webcam slightly above eye level.

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