Although you might not have had a video interview before, they are quickly becoming a useful tool for recruiters. This is especially true for those who are applying for a job in an area where they aren’t currently residing, as it can cut down interview time and costs.
There are a lot of ways to use technology to your advantage, but of course, there are many mistakes you can make along the way. If you’re wondering how to act during an interview, we’ve got a list of 9 issues you should watch out for.
1. Looking the part
Even though you’re not meeting face to face, reflecting the company you’re hoping to work for and the job you want to be doing is important. Ring the HR department and find out more about the dress code.
White is colour that doesn’t usually come across well on camera, so go for light shades and block colours, as the camera can often distort the pattern, turning your stripy t-shirt into an optical illusion. However funny the idea of doing an interview in your pants sounds, we recommend wearing trousers, just in case you have to get up to grab something. Underwear is a big no-no at any kind of interview.
2. Distracting background
When setting up your laptop and camera, take a look at what’s behind you. The interviewers will be looking at everything, so you don’t really want them to catch a glimpse of your stuffed toys from childhood or a large pile of unwashed dishes.
Don’t sit in front of a window either, as too much light can turn you into a silhouette. Ideally you want a plain wall with enough light shining on your face. Practice your set up beforehand.
3. Glaring glasses
The anti-glare coating on your glasses was made for this moment. If you were one of the people who declined this option when you purchased your last pair of spectacles, then we suggest not wearing them.
Your eyes will look like glowing orbs and the interviewer won’t get a great first impression of you.
4. Looking at yourself and not the other person
Usually, there are two images during a video interview, and one of them is of you. It can be a distraction, and you can spend too much time watching your mannerisms and worrying about your hair rather than focusing on the questions.
If you can, turn off the camera so that you can only see the person or people interviewing you. Don’t look at their face on the screen though, look directly into the camera. Eye-contact is important during interviews as it indicates trustworthiness.
5. Slumping
Most video interviews will be taking place in an environment that’s extremely comfortable to you, which is good as it helps you to relax. Don’t be too chilled out though, because if you’re slouched in an arm chair, you’ll just look like you don’t care.
6. Waving your hands around
If you have to do a presentation during a face-to-face interview, then using your hand can be expressive and get your point across. During video interviews it’s just distracting, so try and keep your hands on your lap, and don’t wave like you’ve just seen your best friend in the distance when it’s time to say goodbye.
7. Lack of practice
If you’re not used to using video conferencing programmes, then it’s best to spend some time getting familiar with them before the interview takes place. Most of them have a practice call function, where you can set the volume of the microphone, check that you can hear properly and set your camera settings.
Try and make an actual call to a friend. That way you can get an idea of what it’s like to hold a conversation using video technology and you’ll feel more prepared when it comes to the interview.
8. Technology blips
Although the technology is excellent when it works well, there are times when the signal could break up and you might not be able to hear the question. When this happens, alert the interviewer to the issue straight away. It might be easier to hang up and try again. If the issue persists, be sure to have your mobile handy in case they decide to turn the video interview into a phone interview.
9. Interruptions
Those who are sharing a house or living with their family should make sure that everyone knows to stay quiet and not disturb you during your interview. Be sure to switch off your phone as well.
Video interviews might require a bit of practice to get right, but they are a great way of being in control, and being able to speak to the interviewer without the stress of the journey and in an environment that you feel comfortable in can be beneficial.
Here at Enterprise we communicate in so many different ways, from Twitter and Facebook to video interviews and face to face assessment days. This helps us to find the best people to work with. If you’d like to find out more about the jobs we have on offer at the moment, take a look at our vacancies page.
