The pandemic and resulting increase in remote work options has led to a surge in the use of virtual interviews. surely The survey found that 82% of organizations are using virtual interviews and 93% plan to continue doing so.
Here are some useful tips to remember when participating in an online video interview with a potential employer:
Before the interview
Test the technology: Do they use Skype? Microsoft Teams? Google Hangouts? Zoom? There are lots of options you can use. Find out which option your interviewer prefers and run a test with a friend using that technology. Make sure you have good video quality, good audio, and a stable internet connection.
Clean up your space: Make sure your space is uncluttered, quiet and well-lit. As a general rule of thumb, the light source should come from above or behind the camera. Light should never come from directly behind you, so don’t sit with your back to an open window, otherwise you’ll end up in shadow and giving a distorted impression.
Print your resume: Your resume, the job description of the position you are talking about, and Question List Questions to ask your interviewer. Print them out to use as a reference point during the conversation.
Related: 3 resume mistakes to avoid
Related: Video Interview Dos and Don’ts
Look your best: Just because it’s offsite doesn’t mean you can’t look your best. Be just as professional in a video interview as you would in an in-person interview. This means: Dress to suit the role From head to toe.
Eliminate distractions: Try to schedule your interview at a time when you know it will be quiet, such as during your child’s nap time. Silence your cell phone and disable notifications on your computer. Finally, try to eliminate as much background noise as possible, such as the television, barking dogs, or outside traffic noise.
During the interview
your Body Language: Make sure you sit up straight and aren’t leaning against the desk. Sit halfway forward in your chair so you don’t appear to be leaning back carelessly. Smile and nod at appropriate times to show that you’re listening and engaged with what is being said.
Look at the camera: While it may be your instinct to look at yourself and the interviewer, looking directly into the camera maintains eye contact and shows the interviewer you’re engaged.
Pro Tip: Adjust your browser window so that the image is as close to the camera as possible, so that your eyes are always facing the camera.
Related: 10 Common Interview Mistakes That Could Cost You the Job
Manage your time: Video interviews are often shorter than in-person ones, so it’s important to answer questions clearly and concisely without rambling on. When you’re finished, wrap up the interview by thanking the interviewer and asking about next steps.
After the interview
follow up: Be sure to send a thank you email to the interviewer, and express your interest in the job and your expectations for next steps.
Related: Don’t forget to say thank you after the interview
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This blog was written by a Senior Recruitment Specialist at Acara. Stephanie Amos.
