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5 Top Tips to Acing a Video Job Interview

With the UK, and other parts of the world planning to get back to some form of normality, many businesses are still looking to take extra precautions when it comes to face-to-face contact. One of the safety measures in place are video interviews, and we’ve got some useful tips to help you smash it out of the park when it comes to your next job opportunity.

1. Test your technology

First things first, ensure technology doesn’t let you down. A good way to test everything works ok and there are no connection issues is to do a trial run with a family member or friend using the software your interviewer will be conducting the interview with. If you’re not sure, don’t be afraid to ask them. There are a few programs hiring managers may use to conduct interviews; Zoom, Skype, VidCruiter and MyInterview are amongst the most popular. Making sure your audio is clear is the most important thing to test, and that your webcam works in conjunction with your audio.

2. Assess your surroundings

If you have children at home at the moment, which many of us do, try to set up your video interview in a separate room so that the background noise is kept to a minimum. Sometimes though, that’s simply not possible, so give your interviewer a heads up beforehand to make them aware that there will be some background noise. We’re only human and many people are fighting a similar battle during the current situation. The key here is to reduce as much background distraction as possible. Another thing to consider is your background setting. If, for example, your setup is in the kitchen, ensure the background is tidy and there are no major distractions to take away the attention from yourself. Also, experiment with the lighting. Does the “big light” add too much contrast to the point your face is no longer clear? If so, try placing a lamp next to your desk to add a touch of ambience instead. As in all interviews, even face to face ones, you want to come across as warm and friendly, so setting your surroundings up to get that message across will help.

3. Dress the part

This point doesn’t need much explanation. We all know, as with any interview, first impressions count. With that being said, you should treat a video interview just like any other. Regardless of the fact you are sitting in your lounge, dining room, or study, make sure you dress appropriately for the interview. It may also be worth asking the hiring manager beforehand what the usual dress code is for the company.

4. Don’t rush it

Face to face interviews are relatively easy to have a straightforward conversation, however, video interviews, depending on which programme you are using, can sometimes cause a slight lag in conversation. This is understandable, and the interviewer will empathise with the situation, but to make things easier, be sure to stay conscious of the fact by talking slightly slower than usual and speak with confidence… don’t shy away from the camera!

5. Don’t forget the basics

Whilst testing your computer or laptop works correctly may be a big factor, the most important thing to remember is to stay focused on the actual purpose of the call. This is an interview for a job you really want, so as with any interview, be prepared with questions about the role, how the work will take place in the current situation, is it homebased/site based? Ask about their plans on how they will adjust to returning to work. Don’t forget to do your research on the company, take a look at their Social Media pages to find out what they’ve been up to lately, and have a notepad and pen to hand to make notes. Treat it as you would a regular interview, slightly adjusted, and you can’t go far wrong!

Here at First Recruitment Group, we are still actively working within multiple sectors to help fill our client’s requirements, adapting our approach to ensure the safety of our candidates in the process. If you are currently looking for work, please email your CV to recruit@firstrg.com and our team of friendly Recruiters will be in touch to offer a helping hand.

Until next time…

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