One method of interviewing that has become popular is video interviewing. A lot of jobseekers have little or no experience of this type of interview. You still have to prepare for one like you would an face to face interview but there are other preparations that you need to do for this type of interview.
Some jobseekers can be caught out by things that can be easily dealt with beforehand, To help you be fully prepared for a video interview, here are some helpful tips to help you be more ready. All of these tips are to be done on the day of the video interview at home.
Internet Connection
As with all technology it can sometimes let us down without warning. It is important that you check that your internet connection is working fully. You should test this a few times before especially 10-15 minutes before your interview starts.
Webcam
A video interview is nothing if your webcam is not working or pointing at you. Make sure that your camera is fully operational and is pointing at you in the right direction. Also make sure that your image is clear and is not upside.
Microphone
You have tested your webcam, now it is time to test your microphone. No point having a video interview if they cant hear you. Again, like you webcam make sure you test it more than once.
Headphones
On some video call apps or devices, the sound from the speakers can be a bit distressing due to echoes or buzzing sounds. Using headphones is a good method to avoid these plus you can hear the interviewer better. Again, make sure your headphones work and adjust to the right volume.
House Location
Where in the house you conduct your video interview is important. You want it in a room where you will not be disturbed by kids, friends etc. Also, you will need a room where you can sit comfortable and look professional e.g a proper desk & not the kitchen table!
Background
Another thing you should be aware of, is the background of the room you use. Having your bed, kitchen etc is not an ideal background. Make sure you have a good wall behind and away from light e.g. windows as it can hinder the images.
Select Device
So which device will you use for your video interview. Are you going to use your smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop PC! Using handheld devices are not ideal due to your hands can start shaking. Pick the device you can sit at. If you not got a laptop or PC then see if you can borrow one for your interview.
Social Media
Make sure all your social media is turned off from all your devices. An interviewer will not be impressed if all they can hear is beeping from all your apps. Especially turn them off the device you are using to conduct your video interview. Sometimes that can interrupt your connections.
Full Charge
If using a laptop device, either make sure it is fully charged if you can't have access to a power sockets. The last thing you need is for your battery to die and cut off your interview. This has happened to other jobseekers.
Trial Runs
We have talked about testing your equipment before the interview but if you are new to video interviewing, then get some practice in. Get use to talking via webcam to friends and family. It can help you develop the right posture, develop your confidence and get use to looking at the screen and not the camera.
Some jobseekers can be caught out by things that can be easily dealt with beforehand, To help you be fully prepared for a video interview, here are some helpful tips to help you be more ready. All of these tips are to be done on the day of the video interview at home.
Internet Connection
As with all technology it can sometimes let us down without warning. It is important that you check that your internet connection is working fully. You should test this a few times before especially 10-15 minutes before your interview starts.
Webcam
A video interview is nothing if your webcam is not working or pointing at you. Make sure that your camera is fully operational and is pointing at you in the right direction. Also make sure that your image is clear and is not upside.
Microphone
You have tested your webcam, now it is time to test your microphone. No point having a video interview if they cant hear you. Again, like you webcam make sure you test it more than once.
Headphones
On some video call apps or devices, the sound from the speakers can be a bit distressing due to echoes or buzzing sounds. Using headphones is a good method to avoid these plus you can hear the interviewer better. Again, make sure your headphones work and adjust to the right volume.
House Location
Where in the house you conduct your video interview is important. You want it in a room where you will not be disturbed by kids, friends etc. Also, you will need a room where you can sit comfortable and look professional e.g a proper desk & not the kitchen table!
Background
Another thing you should be aware of, is the background of the room you use. Having your bed, kitchen etc is not an ideal background. Make sure you have a good wall behind and away from light e.g. windows as it can hinder the images.
Select Device
So which device will you use for your video interview. Are you going to use your smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop PC! Using handheld devices are not ideal due to your hands can start shaking. Pick the device you can sit at. If you not got a laptop or PC then see if you can borrow one for your interview.
Social Media
Make sure all your social media is turned off from all your devices. An interviewer will not be impressed if all they can hear is beeping from all your apps. Especially turn them off the device you are using to conduct your video interview. Sometimes that can interrupt your connections.
Full Charge
If using a laptop device, either make sure it is fully charged if you can't have access to a power sockets. The last thing you need is for your battery to die and cut off your interview. This has happened to other jobseekers.
Trial Runs
We have talked about testing your equipment before the interview but if you are new to video interviewing, then get some practice in. Get use to talking via webcam to friends and family. It can help you develop the right posture, develop your confidence and get use to looking at the screen and not the camera.