Video interviews are becoming the norm, so you need to adapt. Follow these tips so you don’t miss out on an opportunity.
Make sure you have a strong internet connection. The last thing you want to happen to is keep freezing when you should be on fire! If your internet connection isn’t working, or is choppy, the interviewers might have to reschedule, which doesn’t sound like a big deal, but the team might not want to take time away from their schedule just to have another botched interview with someone who wasn’t prepared with a basic internet connection; especially if they’ve already spoken to a handful of qualified candidates that they would like to move to next steps. It could blow your shot.
Test your video capability out beforehand. What application is being used to conduct your video interview? Skype, Zoom, BlueJeans, or something you haven’t heard of before? Make sure to ask if there is anything you need to download first. Do a test run with a friend the day before to make sure your speaker and video are working properly. Make sure to do this at least the day before, so if you’re having technical issues, you have some time to figure it out.
Wear something professional. This is an interview. Just because you are not in person does not mean it is less formal or relaxed. Wear what you would wear to an in-person interview. If you are unsure what to wear, go with a suit. Business casual is usually always acceptable, too.
Use a laptop. Tempted to just use your phone because you’re taking a trip and don’t feel like lugging your laptop around? Get over it. The last thing you want to come off as is unprepared, which will happen if your picture is coming off funky because you’re using a smaller device. If you don’t have a laptop and you need to use your phone, make sure the person you are scheduling with knows, and explain why your laptop is out of commission to the interviewers.
If you wear glasses, mind the reflection. Googling the company while they ask you what you know about them? Browsing for that new water bottle you want when one of the interviewers goes on a long-winded rant? Yea, they can see what you’re doing. Be mindful of what you pull up, because your glasses will rat you out.
Want some interview prep tips? Check out our other article [here]
