5 Tips for a Successful Video Interview
Video interviews are growing in popularity as technological advances make recruiting efforts more efficient.
Sixty-three percent of human resources managers said their company often conducts employment interviews via video, according to a survey from OfficeTeam, a staffing division of Robert Half International Inc. The number of HR managers who conduct video interviews “very often” jumped to 53 percent in 2012 from one percent in 2011.
Many companies are embracing video interviews, which are often conducted online via webcam, as a way to quickly and cost-effectively evaluate applicants. Job seekers can use these virtual meetings to put their best foot forward, just as they would in person. - Robert Hosking, executive director of OfficeTeam
What does this mean for job seekers?
There are many advantages to making use of video interviews. For starters, you won’t have to worry about traffic or poor driving conditions. Video interviews toss aside the old notion of being late. As long as you have a webcam and working Internet connection, you’re set. While not exactly the same as an in-person interview, video interviews also give you a chance to showcase your communication skills and personality.
All the charm in the world won’t help you get a job if you’re unprepared, though. If you want to have a successful video interview, then take these tips to heart:
- Run tests. Make sure the video tools on your computer or smartphone are working properly. Is you internet connection fast enough? Choppy video can be very frustrating to your interviewer. Run mock video interviews with family members or close friends to check connection speed, volume levels and body positioning.
- Know your location. You’ll want good lighting and to avoid distractions. That local coffee shop may not be the best place for your video interview if music is always playing, or there’s a lot of activity in the background.
- Consider your presentation. How would you be dressed if this interview happened in person? How would talk to the hiring manager? You’ll want to maintain good posture, smile, look directly into the camera, and speak slowly.
- Treat it like a real interview. OfficeTeam recommends that you approach the meeting with all the seriousness and preparation you would give to an in-person interview. Keep materials like your resume and cover letter close by, and consider any questions you may want to ask.
- Follow up. Can’t stress this enough. Whether it’s by email or hand, be sure to send your recruiter/hiring manager a thank you note for participating in a video interview with you.
Have you participated in a video interview? If so, let us know your experiences in the comment section below!
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