Job Seeker Blog - Spark Hire

How to Master the Remote Video Interview

No shame in admitting it, this feels like the worst time to be looking for a job. With many organizations pivoting to remote work, hiring may be put on the back burner. Besides that, with most offices being closed, you’re not about to show up to your interviewer’s house in a suit.

Video Interviews to the Rescue

Numerous well-known companies are using video interview tools for candidate interviews, so there is a large chance that, with the help of technology, your job search may continue in the face of this latest challenge.

We know, it can really stink to suddenly be faced with a video interview when you were all hyped up for an in-person one. But with these four tips, you’ll be able to shift gears and conquer your remote video interview.

Location & Setup

You decide where to complete your video interview, so it’s best to control your surroundings. Look for a space that allows you to sit up straight, and hold or set your webcam at eye level. Minimize disruptions by choosing a quiet place where people won’t disturb you while you’re interviewing. 

For your background, try to keep it neutral, like in front of a blank wall. If you live with other people, make sure they are aware of when and where you’ll complete the video interview so they don’t interrupt. Also be sure to keep pets out of your interviewing space.

Dress Professionally

Just because your in-person interview moved to video, doesn’t mean you can slack off in the wardrobe department. You already had your suit pressed and hung for your in-person interview, so wear it! If a suit wasn’t in your plan, be sure to reflect what you see as appropriate office attire for the organization. For most, this still means you should interview in business professional attire.

Speak Clearly

It can be challenging to feel like yourself when you’re staring into a webcam. But eye contact is just as crucial in a video interview as it is for an in-person interview. To execute great eye contact on your video interview, look directly into your webcam. Add to your personable presentation by consciously relaxing your shoulders, speaking clearly, and smiling. These keys will help you look and feel confident to your interviewer.

Research the Organization

This last point is something you were likely already doing, but an essential element of your video interview is the prep work. Prepare for the interview by reviewing common interview questions, and practice your responses to those questions. Review the job description, company website, and even the company’s social media page to get a better idea of the company’s culture and values. This information gives you clues to answering your interviewer’s questions in a truthful and appealing direction.

No matter the circumstances, armed with these tips, you’ll conquer your next video interview!

If your video interview is with Spark Hire, we highly recommend getting more specific advice on our Candidate Boot Camp.

Hannah Goldenberg

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