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Advice on Video Interviews
Advice on Video Interviews
Due to COVID 19, Video technology seems to be the way forward. Therefore, we have put together some useful tips to help you make the most of your video interview.
How do Video Interviews Work?
A Video interview is exactly the same as a face-to-face interview, apart from you’re on screens rather than in person. Using video technology is great, especially during a pandemic, as work and interviews can take place regardless of the geographical location or working conditions.
Remember, that even though your interview is via video, it’s still formal and needs to be treated and prepared for in the same way as any other interview.
Preparation for a Video Interview
Just as with any interview, it’s still crucial that you prepare. Prepare some questions, answers and talking points to ensure your best qualities are portrayed to the interviewer. Have stories which show your behaviour and skills in certain workplace and homelife scenarios.
Another good way to prepare is to hold mock interviews with a family member so you get used to answering and asking the questions you want to.
A question interviewers like to ask is: ‘How much do you think you should be paid for this role?’. You always want to give yourself a slight raise from your current salary. A good tip is to use online sights beforehand to see how much the role is estimated to be paid, salary.com is a good one. Online salary predictions are helpful, as they also work out salary per geographical location as well. Equally, an average wage increase is approx. 5%, so add that to your current salary to work out a new figure. Always suggest between two amounts, rather than giving a definite figure.
How to set up your screen for the interview
Don’t use a virtual background for your interview, it’s seen as extremely unprofessional. Most interviewers would prefer an office type setting or the classic bookcase.
You also want to make sure where you choose to have your call has good lighting and is quiet. You want the interviewer to be able to see your face and facial expression clearly, ensuring that you can also see theirs. You equally don’t want noise in the background or interruptions which make it hard to be heard. Remember, it’s about making you and the interviewer comfortable.
Be on time!
Be on time!! This is just as vital in a remote interview, as it is to any in person interview. As I’m sure you’re aware, most video calling software has personal ID in order to join the call. Keep this handy and safe because the last thing you want to do is be late because you lost it. This shows disorganisation and a lack of respect for the interviewer.
During the Video Interview
Perhaps prepare some starter questions for you to ask the interviewer, it’ll relax both of you and make the interview more personal. Starter questions are a great way to break the ice and initiate a conversation on an informal but interview related topic. It also gives the interviewer an opportunity to open up about themselves.
Throughout your interview remember you are on screen and every movement and expression will be picked up by the interviewer. Make sure you look and stay professional the whole way through.
Opening Questions
Don’t feel disheartened or put off if the interviewer interrupts you mid-sentence, this could be to ask a follow up question, or to angle your answer in a different direction. It can also be a time for you to express your point more clearly. So, allow your interviewer to jump in as it doesn’t always mean something negative and they may actually be doing you a favour, allowing you to open up more about a certain topic or interest.
Write a Thank You Letter
After an interview, it’s always polite to send a thank you follow up email within 24 hours of the interview, to thank the interviewer for their time and to express any questions regarding the company or interview process. This also shows a passion and a want to be hired which most interviewers will appreciate.
If you need more advice on interviews and interview preparation, check out our blog on ‘How to Talk About Yourself in an Interview’.
Stay Safe,
Team Affecto.