If you are preparing for a job interview, you have to put your best foot forward. Video interviews are perfect. They are convenient and take the pressure off. They give you the chance to prepare for your interview without the stresses of commuting. However, it is easy to underestimate the importance of such interviews.
Video interviews are just as important as in-person interviews. You must do your best to give a good impression. Interviewers can judge you based on your atmosphere, appearance, and outfit choice. Here are a few tips to prepare for your video interview.
1. Prepare the Environment
Start by preparing your environment for the interview. Your surroundings should reflect your personality and the impression you are trying to create. If the background is messy or chaotic, you might come off as disorganized or uninterested in the job. If possible, take the interview at home. If you can’t, go to a quiet place with a good internet connection. Avoid taking interviews in public spaces like coffee shops and restaurants. Think of what is going on in the background and how it would affect the interviewer’s perception of you.
2. Prepare Yourself
Do not take your video interview lightly. If possible, take some time to practice with a loved one. Think of questions that the interview might ask and find appropriate answers for them. Test your video, audio, and internet connection with the same software as your interview. Ensure that the interviewer can hear you clearly and that nothing in your frame is distracting. Ask a loved one to let you know if your body language or gestures seem awkward on camera.
3. Dress Appropriately
You don’t want to neglect your looks just because you are interviewing on video. Ensure that you look professional from head to toe and that your jewelry isn’t too flashy. You want to look good without going overboard. If you want to wear jewelry, ensure that it doesn’t make distracting noises. Know the nuances: interview attire for men or women? .
Even though you won’t be going to the office, you need to understand the prospective employer’s fashion culture. Some have more formal requirements than others. Generally, you want to dress just like you would for an in-person interview. Go a notch over the company’s expectations.
4. Consider Your Lighting
Think about your lighting when preparing for your video interview. It should be bright but not glaring. Usually, natural light from your windows is enough unless you are in a very dark room. Avoid tungsten and fluorescent lights as they can be unflattering.
Have your light source in front of you rather than your back to avoid creating shadows. In addition, you need to check the glare from your jewelry, eyeglasses and watch.
5. Invest in a Good Camera
Invest in a good-quality camera for your video interview and set it up close to your eye level. If you will be using your phone camera, prop it up on a few books. You will experience more video stability than when holding it with your hands.
If you have multiple monitors, place the one with a camera on it right ahead of you. That way, you won’t be turning away from the interviewers. The window with the interviewer should be close to the camera. That way, you can mimic their eye contact.
Your video interview may be convenient, but it is no time to slack off. Even if you are camera shy, proper preparation will be good for you. Finding the right video chat platform is great, but it isn’t enough. You must put in the effort to present yourself in the best light possible. It could determine whether you get a job. Important tips include dressing the part, using a good camera, and creating a good environment for your call.
