If Covid has taught us anything, it is how quickly people and organisations can adapt to new ways of working with a lot of employees adapting to working from home, offices being out of bounds which has meant new ways in conducting and carrying out interviews for open vacancies.
With the current technology surrounding us and the various applications such as Zoom, Microsoft teams, Facetime and much more video interviewing has become a normal part of the interview process and it is here to stay.
Video interviewing and face to face interviews are very similar in the sense that you can both see each other face to face and carry out normal questions and answers as part of a typical interview, but what are you missing and what should you pay attention to, to ensure you make a fantastic first impression during your video interview.
We have conducted a quick guide on things you should be considering when preparing for your Video Interview.
Dress Code:
Dressing smartly for an interview is an absolute must in any interview circumstance and more so when video interviewing. We appreciate being at home, you feel comfortable and let’s face it we often want to sit around in our PJ’s or our comfy clothes so its easy to feel like this when attending an interview from the comfort of our home.
Ensure you would dress the same and present yourself smartly as if you were attending a face-to-face interview on site, Suited, and booted as they say. It not only gets you in the right frame of mind for your interview but also sets a fantastic first impression.
Technology:
No matter what equipment you are using for your interview computers, laptop, phone etc always ensure you test your equipment before the video interview.
Ensure the appliance is amply charged or plugged in, check your internet connection, and ensure you have the right apps downloaded for your interview.
It is also a good idea to check your camera is in working order and positioned well so the interviewer can see you clearly.
Room Lighting and background:
This is an important factor to ensure you are in a bright space for your interview, you want to ensure your interviewer can see you clearly and that the room is not too dark.
Its also important to make sure you have an appropriate background, so check there is no offensive posters or pictures behind you.
If you are using Zoom or teams and the various backgrounds, you can set may seem like a good idea but during an interview its best to keep it simple.
Remove Distractions:
Make sure you are clear from distractions, if anyone else is within the household advise them you are not to be disturbed and to try and ensure any voices, music and TV are kept low for the duration of your interview.
Ensure any pets are left outside of the room to avoid any unwelcomed guest appearances.
Last but not least, Relax and enjoy your interview and if you follow the above you are sure to make a great first impression.
