Career Advice Talk

Video Interviewing – 8 Tips to Job Seeker Success

16th March, 2011 - Posted by Robin Ogden -

It’s becoming more and more common for employers to interview candidates via video vs. a face-to-face interview.  This is an extremely cost effective way for employers to manage cross-functional interviewing, as well as multiple locations across the globe.   As a job seeker you need to be prepared and knowledgeable about this type of interview ahead of time so that you are comfortable with the process and technology and won’t sound like a ‘duck out of water’ when asked to participate in a video interview.

More than likely the company setting up the video interview will establish the location, probably at their local office, and will supply the equipment necessary to perform the interview.

The best way to establish a comfort level is to prepare in advance by finding out all you can about video interviewing. 

Here are  8 tips that will get you started:

Eye Contact – It will probably feel a bit strange staring into a camera lens instead of being able to look directly at your interviewer but if you treat the camera as if that is ‘true’ eye contact then you’ll be off to a good start.  When the interviewer is speaking to you, continue to look into the camera, don’t let your eyes drift left or right while either talking or listening.   Remember, the camera lens is where ‘eye contact’ happens.

Dress Code – Just because you’ll be in front of a camera and not in the room you must still dress as if you are on the actual interview.  Don’t let this be a time where you decide to dress professionally only on the upper body, while wearing your torn jeans and sandals below.  More than likely you won’t know how much the camera is going to pick up.  You should be prepared to stand and do something on a white board, or if someone else enters the room you may be standing to shake a hand.  Be prepared and dress professionally from head to toe so that your interview and answers are taken seriously.

Arrive Early – You will want to have some time to get yourself situated and accustom to the environment and setup.  Make sure that you have some water nearby, if there is none in the room do be comfortable asking for some.  Do not locate the water so close to yourself that you may knock it over while expressing a point with your hands.

Use your smile – Cameras have a way of bringing out the ‘seriousness’ in us and along with that can take away some of our important body language, such as your smile.  Often times someone on a video interview will be so focused at staring into the camera lens that the face takes on a cement appearance.  Be sure to use your smile, your nod, the tilt of your head.  There is no reason to sit freakishly still.

Posture – Sit up straight, shoulders back and make sure that you do not slouch over with your hands crossed on the table.  If you have your hands on the table that’s fine, just be sure to maintain a strong posture so you do not appear slumped over.  Also make sure you do not lean back casually in your chair, it is important to appear sharp and alert.  Although video interviewing is new to most of us, it must be treated as importantly as any in-person interview.

Hands – To make an emphasis in your statement it is fine to use your hands from time to time.  It will also relieve the stiff look that is so common with video interviewing.  Just be sure you’re not swinging your hands all over the place.  Use them strategically to emphasis an answer
or to add video-appeal.

Prepare ahead – it is fine for you to ask if you can come in a day in advance to meet with the video conference coordinator to ensure that you are able to use the equipment efficiently.  The employer may not need you to do this but will appreciate your willingness to support a successful process.  If not the day before then perhaps 30 to 40 minutes prior to interviewing to meet with the equipment pro.  It never hurts to ask and will improve your comfort and confidence!

Camera ready – It’s important to remember that you are being viewed through a camera, which is completely different than the normal eye.  So, it is best to wear solid colors – avoid stripes, small checks, and loud herringbone patterns which can be very distracting and can even look jittery to the viewer.  Solid colors are usually best.  Also, keep in mind that you will probably be sitting in a chair that has dark fabric or dark leather – perhaps black.  If you are wearing a solid black suit you may look larger that you actually are because the camera is not distinguishing the difference between your dark clothing and the dark chair, in most cases.  If you have a chance to see the video area ahead of time take a look at the furniture in the room and dress accordingly in a professional manner.  Remember too that very bright colors or bright white may cause a distraction and draw the viewer away from your face, which can then make it tougher for them to focus and absorb what you’re saying.  Women should avoid bracelets which may jingle and be distracting, also avoid long dangling earrings.  Any jewelry should be tasteful and conservative.