Video interviews are now a thing. While there are still many companies that conduct face-to-face interviews, it’s now possible to attend interviews even when the company is miles away from the applicant.
Video interviews have many benefits. For one, you don’t have to spend money on transportation or gas. You can now handle your time more efficiently because you don’t have to wait in line.
Most of all, it’s very convenient. You can apply for jobs in different cities, states, and even in other countries without . All you need is your laptop and an Internet connection and you’re all set.
But like any company interview, you have to ensure you ace it in order to get the job. Below are some of our tips for acing your video interview.
Prepare for the Interview
Although you’re not meeting your interviewer face-to-face doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prep. You should still look your best. Choose a formal outfit (or at least a top) and brighten your face.
But apart from prepping mentally and physically, you also have to prep your hardware.
Ensure that your computer or laptop is working. The audio should be good as well as the camera. Double-check everything including the application or software you’re using.
Besides the computer, also check your internet speed. Avoid lags as it could lead to misunderstandings and dead air. You want your interview to be as flawless as possible.
Additionally, find a good spot for the interview. Find someplace in your home that’s quiet and has a good background. Avoid distracting backgrounds so your interviewer’s focus remains on you.
Make sure the lighting is good and your interviewer can see you well. It’s best to have lighting behind you and on both your sides. This creates the illusion of glowing.
Find the Perfect Angle
You don’t want to look unflattering.
So, you should find the best angle where the camera is at eye level. Don’t put it too high or too low.
Besides looking good, you also need the right angle for eye contact. Keep your focus on the camera and not on the screen. This way, you’re almost looking eye to eye with your interviewer.
This is important in every interview. Keeping eye contact tells them you’re confident and aren’t easily intimidated.
Additionally, don’t just show your face. As much as possible, keep the frame from your chest and up. Getting too close to the camera makes you look like a floating head. Moreover, your interviewer will also see every bit of your facial hair, which can be distracting.
Body Language
Body language is as important in video interviews as with personal ones. Don’t be stiff as you would look boring and robotic. It’s not the type of impact you’d like your interviewer to feel.
But remember to keep the body movement within the frame. And also keep in mind that your gestures won’t always come exactly like in real life. Video chatting will be a few seconds late, and it may come at awkward times.
Be natural and don’t make it too rehearsed.
You also want to have a pleasant facial expression. You want your interviewer to like you, so you should always smile. Looking nervous won’t be good. But it’s a lot worse if you look mechanical with no expression at all.
Conclusion
With today’s technology, it’s much easier to find the best job you want without moving from one place to another. You can find online jobs and stay at home. Or you can apply and pass the interview before moving to a different place.
If you want to know more about online interviews, you can find additional information from articles and essays created and reviewed by professionals in the field.