8 Virtual Interview Tips to Help You Get The Job

When preparing for a virtual interview, it is important to keep a few key tips in mind. First and foremost, make sure that you are familiar with the technology that you will be using.

This means testing both your audio and video equipment ahead of time, so that you know they are working properly and set up correctly. You should also plan to dress in smart business attire, as this will help to put you in the right mindset for the interview.

Finally, be prepared with thoughtful answers to common interview questions, as it may be more difficult to read a potential employer’s body language or expression during a virtual interview. With these tips in mind, you can help ensure your success during any virtual interview.

What is an interview via video?

How To Prepare For Virtual Interviews on Video

Remote interviews have a certain quality which can make the process of interviewing more challenging. For certain people, it’s the possibility of technical issues. Others, it’s the inability to comprehend the full body language.

But, online interviews may be more effective than face-to-face meetings. First, you don’t need to travel which gives you time to plan and get yourself prepared. Additionally, you can keep notes written on your computer to help you remember key aspects of your conversations.

Similar to an interview in a traditional format video interviews are an opportunity to present your self to the interviewer and give a face to your impressive resume.

Indeed, this is the thing Shavon Bell, who was a former director of recruitment at HubSpot seeks out when talking to candidates.

“I acknowledge that it is difficult for senior leaders to pack all their experiences into two pages Don’t allow something to be presumed in exploratory discussions or during an interview. Instead, tell your story in the manner you would like it to be and be transparent is essential,” she says.

The way you tell your story can differentiate you from other candidates however that’s not the only thing. It’s equally important to understand the background of the company you’re interviewing.

In the case of Kate Kearns, one of HubSpot’s campus recruiters, proving how you’ve completed your due diligence on the company will help your application stand out.

“Take time to ensure that you’re prepared to answer any questions that will test your knowledge of the organization and the role you play,” she says.

Consider the things that hiring managers would like to know about you in your brief chat. It’s not simple to establish a rapport via the internet and therefore you must find ways to make it happen naturally is likely to improve your score in interviews.

For instance, you can explain the way in which this job will assist you in reaching your personal and professional goals. Consider what you can contribute to the company and then mention the characteristics of your talents that can make the manager take you on.

The next step is to discuss some of the best practices you can use for interviews on video, but If you’d like to know more details on how to prepare your interview for success, take a look at this interview checklist.

8 Tips for Virtual Video Interviews

It’s the day of the year. Or, as the folks in the theatre call it, opening night.

The challenge is to pitch yourself. Do not let the screen distract you from your goal for the interview. You’re sure you have what it takes to be able to secure the job, and with these suggestions, you’ll be able to make the interview a walk in the park.

1. Dress up to impress your interviewer.

In The Office character Michael Scott says, “I’m not superstitious however, I’m somewhat sceptical.”

That’s where my coveted interview blazer is. Each time I do an interview on video, I wear my blazer. I don’t begin a video interview without it.

Although your interview may be on an electronic screen, dressing appropriately for the interview shows the interviewer that have the ability to remain professional even in a virtual environment.

Therefore, even when you’re in your bedroom or at the kitchen table ensure that you’re dressed to the best professional attire. It could be a button-down top or a blazer suit, or a simple necklace.

2. Make your notes available.

If you find it useful to refer to your notes while interviewing make sure you have them on hand.

It’s great for me to keep your LinkedIn profiles and resumes open in a separate window, with areas I’m certain I’d like to emphasize or bold. This makes it easier to create an instant reference.

What it does:By already having those s of reference so that you don’t lose any important information.

3. Test your technology beforehand.

You’ll be notified of the program you’ll require to be able to complete the interview before. Take advantage of this opportunity to download the application if you haven’t previously, and ensure you know the fundamentals of how it operates.

It’s also a great opportunity to see how your webcam performs in conjunction to the program. The video technology tools are alike. Therefore, it is important to try:

• Microphone
• Lighting
• Camera

A tip for you:Frame your camera so that the person interviewing you can look down at your face to your shoulders, and ensure that there is a couple of inches of space over your head.

4. Keep eye contact with your interviewer.

Keep in mind that the only difference between the video interview and an interview that is traditional is that you’re not sitting in the same room as your interviewer. However, you must be sure to keep your eyes on your interviewer.

There may be other distractions which are not a possibility while working from home, like roommates or family members. The best way to ensure professionalism regardless of the external surroundings is to maintain eye contact with your interviewer and ensure the interviewer is aware that you are focused. In the end, they’ll be looking directly at you.

A tip for you:If you’re using two monitors, you should speak and glance at the screen through the camera. If not, the interviewer may be looking through your photo and begin thinking about what else you’re looking at.

5. Minimize possible distractions.

While there may be non-controllable distractions, there’s distractions you can control. For example, you can keep your phone from your sight. Switch it off and put it on silent, or in a different room.

Also, if you intend conducting your interviews in an office environment, such as the kitchen or bedroom make sure there’s nothing in the background, such as clutter or people walking in the vicinity.

Make sure you clean your background to ensure your attention is on you , or apply a blur filter to your background when your software permits.

Also, notify any roommates of the fact that you’ll be attending an event during that time to ensure that you’re not interrupted.

6. Set up the right lighting.

Because you’ll not be meeting the interviewer on the spot, it’s crucial that they see your face on video.

If you’re testing your tech This is the perfect opportunity to check your lighting. Ideally, you should be seated near a window to get the benefit of natural light.

If this isn’t possible it’s possible to purchase a desk lamp to light up your face.

A tip to remember:When using a desk lamp, do not aim the lamp directly on your face. Instead, point it towards your wall, and allow the light to bounce on your face. This will provide you with an even, natural light, instead of bright light that has hot spots.

7. Be on time for every round.

It’s a time to review notes and take some deep breaths to keep your mind focused and calm. It’s a huge difference to enter the interview in a calm and collected manner rather than hurrying to be on the call following a short bathroom break.

It doesn’t mean you should be glued in Zoom or Skype twenty minutes prior to the interview’s start time. But, make an effort to arrive five minutes early for every interview.

8. Be loud and clear.

If you’re vocally weak make sure you speak loud enough that the microphone is able to hear your voice. Interviewers who are video have less information to work with and if they don’t hear you, they won’t capable of assessing your responses.

For preparing prepare yourself for this, record yourself singing the lyrics to your favourite track using the video software you’ll use. Make sure to separate the words, then check the volume controls.

The basic idea behind a video-based interview you can conduct at your own home. The process of transforming this space to make it interview-ready is an issue however, you don’t need to change the entire function of the space. Make sure that you’re communicating your professionalism and self-confidence.

What happens if your interview isn’t conducted with an interviewer? This means that it’s likely to be automated. Let’s look at what this means and offer suggestions for mastering these techniques.

What is an automated video interview?

Interviews like these eliminate the in-person interviewer of the process. Instead your interviewer will present an array of questions to which will be given a certain period of time in which to read and understand. After that, you’ll be asked to record your responses using either text or video, based on the guidelines.

How do you go about completing one? Let’s cover some best practices.

Tips for Automated Video Interviews

If the interviewer is displayed as words on a screen it can be a frightening feeling to be preparing for the questions that will be asked during the interview. Don’t be afraid, these guidelines will assist you in making sure that you’ve got all the needs covered for a successful automated interview.

1. Try out your new technology before you go.

If you get an automated interview invitation, be sure you’ve got the right software you require. For example, if the automated video is hosted with a third-party software which you must download, ensure you are prepared to download it prior to the time.

Furthermore, you should make sure you test your tools:

• Does your webcam work?
• Does your microphone work?
• Does your keyboard work properly?
• Do you have your face illuminated? Or do you require more lighting?

Each of these questions are essential to your success during an interview with a computer There’s nothing worse than discovering that something isn’t right after the timer goes off.

2. Try a test run prior to the actual test.

Consider the types of questions you may be asked during your interview. You can then record yourself answering them within a set time. It will seem strange and unnatural.

But, timing your responses and scrutinizing your body language will allow you to you avoid the intrusive thoughts that include, “Will I have enough time? ” and “How do I come across? “

Make the test as if it were an actual interview. Dress appropriate for the occasion and practice in a serious manner.

3. Talk clearly and in a steady manner.

My biggest concern during my first video interview with an automated system was not having enough time to get all my thoughts down. My advice is to rely on your time-limit. It is likely that the majority of your interview responses in person require the exact amount of time that automation permits.

However you’ll have more than enough time to talk consistently. As you work, make note of your flow in your sentences and keep track of how fast you’re talking.

However your answers must be straight to the point. You should avoid the fluff, so that you be able to get to the main questions’ points.

4. Be aware of body language.

When you’re in person for interviewing, it is likely that you are focused on your body expressions. Automated interviews shouldn’t be any more than that, particularly if you are recording your responses with video.

Be sure to conduct these interviews as if you’re with a different person. (More frequently than not, actual people will be scrutinizing your responses.)

Keep eye contact using either the camera on your computer or monitor in front you . Also, keep a professional appearance.

5. Don’t think too much about the interview.

Automated interviews typically provide clear directions and more than enough time to address the question.

Automated interviews can be very entertaining and you’ll be able to showcase your self in a fresh manner, and perform it in the privacy of your own home.

6. You must be aware of the directions.

When you have received your prompts Make sure you take some time and read, understand and formulate your response before recording.

It is not possible to ask for clarification. You may also not be able re-record your response after you have sent the answer in. Keep this in mind and do not rush into recording. Make sure that you are aware of the issue and are aware of what you’ll say in your answer.

However, just as in interviewing in person, mistakes can occur. If you miss a word or misunderstand a sentence, or wish to alter your answer halfway through but it’s not the end for you. Don’t give up.

Human beings are human, and the person who’s reviewing your interview is also human.

7. Try your best.

One of the most costly mistakes you can commit during an interview process is not responding to a question. Even if you’re unsure of the exact question make sure you give it your best shot. You can always repeat the questions you think the interviewer is asking you in the interview to clarify confusion.

If the prompt prompts you to describe a scenario that you’ve never experienced previously instead of leaving the field unanswered or responding with a statement like, “I don’t know I’ve never been in that situation,” explain how you’d handle the situation.

It’s better to hire managers starting with “I’ve not encountered this particular situation, however, if I were I was in this situation, this is the way I would tackle it”other than no answer in any way. Remember that these type of questions are designed to show your ability to solve problems in the workplace.

Overall, take a deep breath. Your resume is already a hit with the employer, and the goal of your interview is to ensure that you have the ability to back up your work experience. The interviewer, whether it is automated or in person, an opportunity to get acquainted with you, your personality and also your professionalism.

This post was originally published in May 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness. link