With the advancement of video conferencing technology, the opportunity to connect with anyone, anywhere, at any time becomes a reality. More companies use virtual meetings in their day-to-day workflow and there’s no doubt the video interview is now a part of the everyday job search.
Even before social distancing, it was reported that 60% of hiring managers and recruiters used video interviewing to streamline the hiring process.
What does that mean for you?
If you’re on the hunt for a new job, you’re going to have a video interview sooner rather than later
Being a compelling communicator – including communicating online – is a critical skill to help advance your career.
How do you prepare?
I’ve compiled this guide to help you stand out on the screen.
And from the crowd of candidates.
Here are the 7 steps you need to help you ace your next video interview.
Step 1: Prepare the Basics
Step 2: Master The Digital Handshake Step 3: Treat It Like Any Other Interview Step 4: Show Your Passion Step 5: Embrace Feedback Step 6: Ask Questions
Step 7: Send Thank You Notes
1. Prep the Basics: Some of these may seem obvious, but they are so important, I have to mention them. Feeling a little nervous before an interview is natural. Consider this your checklist to relieve those last-minute jitters.
Test Prep - Your Set-Up: Some interviews will be held using Zoom, but your recruiting partner will share specific details unique to your interview. Ask a friend or family member to help you test your equipment. And make sure that you’re familiar with the controls.
Plug & Play: Make sure your computer has full power and/or is plugged in.
Be Visible: Keep your camera on at all times, unless it causes a lag. If this happens, you might discuss turning off the camera to improve the connection with your interviewer. This would be a last resort.
Join on Time: Arrive early, just as you would
for an on-site interview.
Be Present: Give the interviewer 100% of your attention. Turn off all your other technology to avoid the temptation to check email, phone, etc.
Select Your Location Intentionally: Represent your personal brand by choosing a specific, quiet place that allows you to focus, has good lighting, and minimal visual distractions. Check what’s visible in the frame behind you! Your “home office” maybe a bedroom or a common space. Regardless, interviewers aren’t concerned with how upscale your setting is. Simply control the elements of your environment that you’re able to.
Remember: Occasionally, things go wrong. If that happens, take a deep breath and do your best to communicate with the interviewer. Surprise tech issues or interruptions can be opportunities to showcase your problem-solving skills & adaptability.
2. Master The Digital Handshake: In a virtual meeting, you can recreate the “handshake” experience with a strong introduction and first impression. Greet the interviewer enthusiastically. Make eye contact by looking directly into the camera, rather than looking at the screen. Show your energy with your body language — lean in and be mindful not to cross your arms. And take a moment to connect, as you would if you were meeting in person.
3. Treat this interview Like Any Other: You still need to follow best practices that apply to on-site and virtual interviews.
Study the Job Description: Create an inventory of your skills and experiences that align with each job requirement. Be ready to present and showcase them. It’s fine if certain skills are areas where you need to grow. You can still showcase your ability to grow and learn new things.
Research the Interviewer(s): Once interviewers are confirmed, look each person up on LinkedIn to get familiar with their background. Draft a few relevant questions based on their experience and interests.
Practice, Practice: You can never be too prepared.
Think about conducting a dry run with family, friends, or
peers who can perfect your talk track.
Dress the Part: Some companies tend to be more casual, but you can still take care of your appearance. Be your authentic self in the interview. Do show what makes you unique.
4. Show Your Passion: What motivates you? Why ‘this’ company? This is your chance to make a lasting impression. Be ready to show your enthusiasm for the job – and most importantly, be you! Being authentic helps to build trust.
Go off Script: In a virtual interview, it can be tempting to read notes, particularly if you have your pitch perfected and practiced. But reading will show in your delivery. It impacts your facial expressions. Be confident! No one knows your background better than you do.
Share Your Interests: Be authentic and honest. Talk about where you think you can add value. Share your long-term goals. When you're transparent about who you are, the Hiring Team can see how you will be a great fit.
Be Ready to Answer “Why this company”: What attracted you to this role? This will help our hiring team understand your goals and values. And importantly how you’re hoping to add value to our company.
5. Embrace Feedback: Remember, feedback is valuable. You can always do things a little better. Show your learner mindset. Ask for feedback. Be prepared to give feedback too — it shows your interest and observations.
6. Ask Questions: Even if you’re far along in your interview process, there’s still more you can discover! Was a topic mentioned you don't know much about? Curious to hear more? Speak up and ask! You’ll gain valuable knowledge about the potential team. Show your genuine interest in the role and willingness to learn.
7. Send Thank You Notes: After your interview concludes, take a moment to send a simple email thanking the interviewers for their time, and following up on any additional questions.
Follow this easy as 3-2-1 Formula
Send the thank you note within three days of your interview.
Ideally within 24 hours. It can be short and sweet!
At least two lines of text is recommended.
Send one note to everyone you interacted with.
