How to nail your next video job interview

Video job interviews are becoming more and more common. That’s because video interviews save time and money for both a business and its job candidates. Follow these tips and you will be ready to get in front of the camera.

As a J1 applicant, you should be familiar with the video job interview where you will be conducted an interview over Skype, Viber, Zoom, etc. Even if you’re a tech-savvy person, you should prepare as thoroughly for online job interview as you would in-person meetings. Yes, there are distinct nuances to understand but with some practice and the right mindset, you can put yourself in a position to shine.

Here are 8 videos interviewing tips that will help you make it to the next round:

1. Test your technology

You should conduct a technical trial run to make sure your equipment is working correctly a few days before the interview. Make sure you download any apps or plugins you may need. Also, check that your computer’s camera, microphone and internet connection are working. Do a trial run with a friend or family member, if possible, so you have ample time to adjust if any of your equipment or software is malfunctioning.

2. Charge it up

If you’re using a laptop or tablet, make sure it’s fully charged on the day of the interview. If you are planning to use a tablet, find a way to keep it stationary. Otherwise, the screen may appear shaky if you’re holding the device. Avoid using a smartphone for a video interview if possible, but don’t forget to charge your phone if you use it as an alarm. You don’t want to miss your important interview just because your phone is out of battery and your alarm doesn’t ring.

Charges all your devices

3. Dress for success

Even it’s an online interview, dress as you would for an in-person interview. You don’t know if you will accidentally show something other than your face, so don’t try the old trick of wearing a shirt with sweatpants assuming you’ll only be seen from waist up. In addition, avoid wearing bright, flashy colors and choose something that looks neatly pressed while you’re sitting down. Trying your outfit to seek feedback from your friend and family can be a good idea.

4. Set the stage for a distraction-free video interview

Choose a location that’s free from the distractions of children, roommates or pets. Hang a sign on the door asking mail carriers and package deliverers not to ring the doorbell. Avoid public places such as coffee shops or courtyards which can suddenly become loud. Likewise, steer clear of libraries where you could be interrupted and asked to quiet down.

Make sure the background is free from clutter and embarrassing items like laundry piles. Set up lighting that’s bright but not glaring, illuminating your face from the front. Natural light is the best.

Turn off email, text and social media alerts, software updates and other notifications that may show up on the screen during the interview. Turn off programs that might interfere with the webcam and close browser tabs.

5. Be a well-prepared early bird

Log in five or 10 minutes early so you can be calm and centered when the video interview begins. Print out your resume and have it nearby, along with the job description and any speaking points you want to hit or notes you’ve taken about the company or position. You won’t want to read from the pages, but having them handy can take away some stress.

6. Maintain good eye contact and body language

It’s easier for your eyes to wander when the person you’re talking to isn’t in the room. Maintain “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. Keep good posture, sitting with your back straight, feet on the ground and arms resting in your lap or on the desk.

7. Project and pause

Project your voice. Check your volume controls and speak clearly so the microphone picks up your voice and the interviewer doesn’t have to strain to hear you. And remember that digital connections can sometimes be delayed. To avoid talking over the interviewer or having your first few words cut out, let the interviewer finish the question and then pause for a few seconds before delivering your answer.

8. Close the video interview by sharing your appreciation

Just as you would with an in-person interview, thank the interviewer for the opportunity. And follow up with a post-interview thank-you note within 24 hours. In your note, briefly reinforce why you’re interested in the job and why you’d be a great match for the role and company. Think about adding something that you and the employer discussed while getting to know each other that will make the thank-you message more personal. 

Bottom line: If you take the time to prepare your answers and follow these video interview tips, you’ll be more likely to make a strong impression and hopefully score the job — or at least another interview.