Prepping for Video Interviews

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You’ve applied for your dream job and received the news that you’ve been granted that all-important interview.  Due to the current climate, it is more likely your next interview will be online. Video interviewing isn’t a new concept, it has been used by recruitment agencies for several years.  The younger generation has grown up with this new technology and it remains a part of everyday life for them.   However, for the more ‘mature’ applicants who may not be so tech-savvy, video presentation can be a daunting prospect.   

Lockdown has highlighted the need for change in the business world and the recruitment process has been impacted dramatically.  In response to the inability of free movement, alternative arrangements were implemented by businesses to ensure consistent productivity and continuity of revenue flow.  Managers successfully turned to platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Skype, for their daily briefings with staff, thus identifying a convenient, safe alternative to in-person interviews. Feedback, for the most part, has been positive, we believe that this technique may well be here to stay.

So why has video interviewing become the number one choice for recruitment?   The flexibility of the new format means there is no travel involved, no time-off work required and you can complete the interview anywhere.  You’ll receive a link and you’ll be good to go!  For hirers, it means not everyone on the panel needs to be in the same office at the same time, a winner for everyone!

For the candidate, regular context interviews can be a nerve-racking experience, but couple this pressure with the prospect of a recording and an unfamiliar platform, and the process can be even more stressful.  Although you may feel apprehensive, there are many how-to guides available that may ease some anxiety. Remember, for the foreseeable future, this process is here to stay.

 Check out our tips below:

1. Find out the format that will be used, how long you will need to allow for the interview process.

2. If possible use a desktop computer, laptop, or tablet. Phone connections are more likely to drop out.

3. Familiarise yourself with the meeting platform, arrange a practice run with a friend or family member. Ensure you are able to connect, reconnect, and adjust the camera.  Test the microphone, camera, and speakers.

4. Be mindful of your backdrop, ensure it isn’t cluttered – minimal background is best. Your position is also important, make sure you engage with the camera and that” your face is well lit.

5. Remember this interview may take place at home, so make sure you are in a quiet room where you will not get disturbed or interrupted.

6. Although you are not physically attending a building, dress as if you would for a traditional interview. Not only is it advisable to look the part, but it will also help you to feel psychologically confident and prepared.

7. Stay focused, it is easier to become distracted when you are in a familiar setting.

8. Please refer to any notes you have prepared but avoid being totally scripted. This makes the process not as natural.  Interviewers are assessing your delivery, confidence, elocution, and engagement levels – reading from a script will diminish all of these qualities. 

9. Don’t forget to smile.

There are a couple of options available to recruiters when considering an online interview.  The first method is a live, two-way scenario.  You will receive a link to an online platform such as Zoom or Teams.  In this scenario, you will come face-to-face with the interview panel on the screen.    

The less common method is the recorded interview, which is also accessed by a URL link.  This will not be a face-to-face experience.  You access the virtual room and answer the pre-populated questions which will appear on the screen.  

To conclude, this is still a real interview process and preparation is essential for success.  The questions and format will be the same as a traditional interview.  Research the company, and ensure that you fully understand the job specification that you are applying for. Prepare answers so you are not caught on the spot and you are ready with the best response.  Highlight work examples that will make you stand out from the crowd and make you memorable to the employer.   Research the position, company, and their ethics.   Make sure you are engaged, enthusiastic, committed, and dress for the occasion.  We are aware that being on camera makes everyone nervous – but now is the time to embrace the change and get out of your comfort zone.   

Of course, once you are successful in attaining your new role we’re here to provide immediate umbrella services for you. Please be in touch.

Happy interviewing!

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