Tips for Mastering the Remote Video Interview

Even after most COVID-19 restrictions have ended, many companies are still doing video interviews to keep office visitors to a minimum or because it’s more convenient. Thus, it is important to learn how to ace the video job interview and to be sure you put your best foot forward in this relatively new medium.

All Usual Rules Apply.

The first thing to know is that all of the usual interview rules will apply to the remote job interview including the following:

• Arrive on time.
• Dress professionally.
• Prepare for the interview with research and questions.
• Speak clearly.
• Answer all questions.
• Engage in a conversation.

Just because you are on screen doesn’t let you off the hook for observing all the usual particulars. You are still being judged on these things, so you must try to maintain a professional appearance and atmosphere.

Practice the Connection.

Set up all your tech the day before or the morning of the interview. Make sure everything works as it should. Test your video and microphone to ensure you can hear, be heard, see, and be seen. Lighting should be in front of you. If you need to use your smartphone, use a tripod for stability instead of holding it. 

There’s almost nothing worse than having to cut an interview short because of preventable tech problems unless it’s having the interviewer troubleshoot your system remotely to help you fix the problem. Remote interviewers now expect you to get the tech working on your end so at least that part of the interview goes smoothly. 

Turn Off Notifications/Phone to Prevent Interruptions.

There could be notifications on both your computer and your phone. Turn off both or silence your phone before the interview begins. If a stray notification pops up during the interview, don’t click on it or take the phone call. Get rid of it quickly and apologize to the interviewer for the interruption.

Try to make the interview area as quiet as possible. Tell other people in the house you are not to be disturbed. If you are disturbed, explain to the interviewer what happened and apologize. If you know of a possible interruption ahead of time, like a barking dog, let the interviewer know of this possibility before it happens.

Be Natural. Slightly Exaggerate Your Gestures.

Video is an unnatural environment for most people. Practice beforehand so you appear as natural as possible. However, slightly exaggerate your gestures because they won’t come across as strongly as they would in person. 

This means nodding your head as the other person talks, looking straight into the camera so it looks like you’re making eye contact, and indicating when you are finished talking, something that can be confusing on camera. Don’t exaggerate too much; you may appear robotic instead of natural.

Using these tips can help you ace your next video interview. GDH would love to help you get connected with potential employers through our job boards. You can also Join our talent network to get connected with employers in your industry.

Posted on June 08, 2022, 03: 21PM