Tips for a Successful Video Interview

In order to remain safe and follow CDC guidelines, companies are opting for video interviews over in-person ones. Do you have a video interview coming up? Here are my favorite ways to make your video interview less stressful and more successful:

1. Prepare: Know what platform the interviewer will be using and make sure you have what you need downloaded well before the interview begins. Test your camera and audio. Use headphones with a mic so that you can take notes easily. Bonus tip from a friend: Be sure to check how your name is displayed on whatever platform you will be using. You may have used it in the past for a casual chat with friends. Be sure to change it from your nickname to your first name or full name.

2. Practice: Just as you might walk through answering interview questions with a friend or mentor - do the same with a friend or mentor via video chat.

3. Post-it: I find myself distracted by my own face during a video call. Does my hair look okay? Why am I doing that weird thing with my face?? Is my nose that big??? You get the idea. To stay focused on the task at hand, I have a Post-it ready to place over my face (rhyme intended!).

Remember the Basics:

• Treat this just as you would a standard, in-person interview. Dress the part.

• Be mindful of what's visible and audible in the background.

• Make sure the lighting is adequate and the camera angle isn't awkward - eye level is best.

• Since you can't exchange business cards, ask for contact information so that you may send a thank you email after the interview.

• Be on time.

• If there's a technical issue outside of your control - remain calm and take it in stride. How you react when something doesn't go as planned can speak volumes. It can show a potential employer that you're ready to tackle any challenge with a cool head!

Photo by Kari Shea on Unsplash