Six essential tips for video interviews

Are you applying for jobs abroad? If you are, there is a good chance you’ll need to do at least one of your job interviews over video. Don’t panic. There are a few advantages to this type of interview. Here are some video interview tips to make sure you present yourself in the best light during the interview

1. Power, connection and your device

It may seem obvious, but if you’re using a laptop make sure that it’s properly charged or plugged in. You don’t want to get cut off in the middle of your interview. Make sure you choose a location with a good internet connection too.

Try to use a desktop or laptop computer instead of a tablet or a phone. You won’t have to hold it and risk a shaking screen that’ll frustrate your interviewers. It’ll also free up your hands.

2. Light, background and what to wear

Try to arrange your space so that there’s a good source of natural lighting, otherwise ensure you have strong lights overhead and slightly behind. Shadows can make you look strange and your interviewers will want to see you clearly. A plain, light-coloured background is best. Definitely don’t set up in front of your feature wallpaper, CD or book cases or posters of pop stars.

Treat the video interview in exactly the same way as you would a normal interview. Don’t dress down in a t-shirt and jeans just because you’re not in an office. You need to look as professional and well turned out as you would if you were going in for a face-to-face interview.

3. Distractions 

You need to be away from all distractions when you sit down for your interview. Choose a quiet room somewhere and make sure that any people who are around are aware that you should not be disturbed.

4. Practice and a helpful hint

A practice run before the interview is a must. You want to ensure that you look good, can be seen clearly and all the equipment is working properly.

A huge advantage of video interviews is that you can have prompts and crib sheets. Set them just above the line of the camera and no one will even know you’re using them.

5. Camera 

Make sure your camera is set in line with your eyes. If it’s too high, the interviewers will see the top of your head and if it’s too low your face will be distorted and the interviewers will get a good look up your nose. You want them to be able to see your head and shoulders clearly so don’t sit too close or too far from the camera either.

Don’t make the mistake of looking at the person on the screen. Yes, when they’re speaking to you, you should be picking up on body language signals, but when you’re giving your answers, try to look at the camera.

6. Wait before speaking

Often on camera there is a delay. Like on news broadcasts, it’s a good idea to wait a few seconds before responding to a question in case there is a delay. You don’t want a situation where you accidentally end up rudely cutting your interviewer off mid-sentence.

Video interviews can be less stressful than face-to-face interviews, as long as you prepare and make sure everything goes according to plan.

Check out the rest of our interview advice in the Michael Page Career Centre.