Virtual Job Interviews – 7 Video Interview Tips

Interviews have always been challenging, and there is a lot of advice out there on how to ace a job interview. But in 2021, there’s a new twist – the virtual job interview. Interviewees today should expect at least one video interview in the recruiting process. But, more and more, candidates are receiving job offers without a single in-person meeting. If that’s the case, job seekers must learn to present their best selves via video. Here are seven video interview tips from the professional recruiters at Marchon Partners to help you succeed in your job search.

Choose a Distraction-Free Location

This era of remote work has certainly relaxed many managers’ expectations about the home office. Dogs, kids, doorbells, etc., are routinely tolerated for people who already have jobs. But remember…you don’t have the job…yet.

For an interview, distractions will only take the attention off you and what the interviewers need to learn about you. Choose a location that is quiet and undisturbed by others in your home; don’t consider interviewing at a coffee shop or other public location. Also, turn off your phone and computer notifications. If you think it’s necessary, you can also put yourself on mute while others are speaking to limit background noise.

Test Your Technology in Advance

Let’s face it, people expect that you can operate video technology. Arriving on time with a functioning video connection is actually part of the interview. Download the right software or app and test the meeting link in advance. Is the camera on? Is there audio? Figure out these settings early. Conduct a pre-interview test with a friend if you must.

Also, be prepared for the worst – your internet can go down, your computer can freeze no matter how much you’ve tested. But if you have a backup in place, you may impress the interviewer even more! One idea is to prep your phone in advance: load the video app, check the settings, and have a mini tripod available. Having a “Plan B” could possibly save the interview and get you the job.

Dress the Part

In previous times, there was little question how to dress for an interview – interviewees were always advised to wear a business attire. Today, that advice may seem outdated, especially for a virtual interview. However, don’t be so quick to brush it off. Presenting yourself professionally shows that you take yourself and the job seriously, an important nuance especially when pursuing a fully remote role.

So, like our advice on distractions, here is our advice on clothing: don’t dress like a current employee, dress like a prospective employee. Even if the interviewers are dressed very casually, you’ll be expected to be more dressed up. As cliché as it sounds, first impressions matter and can make the difference between you and another candidate.

Evaluate Background and Lighting

Having an appropriate background, and light source, for your video interview can influence how you are perceived. We highly recommend that you have minimal items in the background during an interview. A messy room may leave an undesirable impression; personal items may reveal information that doesn’t belong in an interview.

Is it better to use a virtual background? No, we don’t recommend virtual backgrounds. They can be equally as distracting. Instead, finding a blank wall or an area with simple furnishings is the best bet.

And don’t forget lighting. Video interviews in good light also leave a more positive impression. There’s no need to buy an expensive professional setup, but you’ll be a more engaging interviewee if your face and facial expressions can be clearly seen. A well-lit space also demonstrates that you have a proper work-from-home situation if required.

Be Early

There is very little excuse for arriving late to a video interview. Our best tip is the easiest – be early. Log in five minutes before it starts. Even if you’re sitting in a virtual waiting room, they will know you arrived first when they let you in.

Think About Body Language

Engaging body language comes more naturally for an in-person interview. Video interviews require more work to demonstrate engagement. Remember, the spotlight is on you. A few pointers:

• Look at the camera, not at the talking box on your screen
• Nod your head so that the speaker knows you’re listening
• Have a relaxed facial expression – smile but don’t be posed
• Don’t fidget, swing your chair, or tap for feet
• If you cough, sip water, adjust your seat, or whatever, put the sound on mute

Be a Good Conversationalist

Video and audio delays can make conversation challenging. Try observing body language and conversational cues to know when it’s your turn to speak or contribute. Try not to interrupt the interviewer, which may be tough if there are multiple participants. You can engage by smiling, nodding, and using facial expressions, as we already mentioned.

As the interviewee, you will, by definition, have the floor to speak. But a good interview is not a monologue or a robotic back and forth. Be a good conversationalist and use verbal cues and check-ins: you can say things like, “I’ll stop here, and see if you have any questions.” Good reciprocity in an interview leaves everyone with more positive feelings.

Virtual interviewing is here to stay. We hope these video interviewing tips help you land the next job!