We talk a lot about video interviews and how they benefit the job search. In general, video interviews can be a great tool for both employers and potential employees- especially if the two are not local. So to avoid some potential pitfalls we bring you these interview tips for video interviews, and a couple that can be applied to in-person interviews as well.
Getting too comfortable
It may be tempting to slip off your shoes or slouch a little during a video interview. After all, your interviewer can’t see your shoes. This is especially tempting if you do not have a dedicated home office. However, feeling good from head to toe is crucial. You never know if you’ll have to stand up, exposing the rest of your outfit. The same goes for slouching. Sit as though you would in an in-person interview. Body language is very important and you want to be sure you are exuding yours positively.
Not being alone
I get it that sometimes it’s difficult to find some time alone. I live in a studio apartment. It’s really, really hard to be alone. But having someone else in the room during your job interview presents a couple of challenges. First, it’s a distraction to you. Second, it may be a distraction to your interviewer- which is even worse.
Crop-top syndrome
No, I’m not talking about the type of shirt popularized by 90’s pop stars. I’m talking about the problem of not considering how you look in the rectangular frame of your webcam. While it’s important to look good overall, it is especially important to choose an outfit that will work in the video interview frame. Don’t be too fashion forward either. Even if the job interview is for a trendy, hip startup, being a little muted on video works far better. Make sure things are well tailored and well-fitting.
Low talker
A famous Seinfeld episode discussed the “low talker,” a girl Kramer dated who talked in such a low volume no one could understand her. Being audible is key to having the interviewer understand you in both a traditional job interview and a video interview. Equally important to note as well: diction. Make sure you are enunciating words correctly and loudly.
Being unprepared
It may be tempting to prepare less for a video interview, thinking you can have notes in front of you. However, it will be obvious if you are constantly looking away from the screen in order to grab a fact. Prepare for a video interview in the same manner as a traditional job interview. It is both respectful and helpful.
For even more interview tips, take a look at some of our previous blog content. It provides excellent interview tips for both job seekers and HR professionals, and can offer great insight into your job search in general. Video interviews are a great tool to utilize, so be sure you are staying clear of these easy-to-make mistakes. Use these interview tips and go get that job!
Do you have any interview tips that you would like to share with job seekers? What helped you in your job search? Share with us in the comments section below!
IMAGE: Courtesy of Flickr by ilovememphis
Add comment