Have you noticed, since the lifting of lockdown, a lot more interviews and “screening calls” happening over a Zoom or Teams meeting? Video call interviews are becoming the norm, and it makes sense. You can do it anywhere, without the commute, without taking up more time and energy than necessary, and the employer can get through strings of candidates.
So, have you considered how to prep for a video call interview? There might have been some trial and error as the practice became the norm. There is your usual prep, but there is also dealing with the new environment. The good thing is you don’t have to suffer the heels if you don’t want to. We have a list of tips to make sure your video call interview goes the way you want it to.
Setting up your space
The most important part is making sure you have the space to conduct the interview in peace. You don’t want to come off like you’re not taking this seriously, and you don’t want to be interrupted while you’re giving your answers, so give your setup a glance.
Make moves to try and make sure the kids are otherwise occupied, or the dog is in bed, the TV is off, etc. And while we’re talking about interruptions, make sure your phone is on silent and your Skype/Teams/etc. is set to Do Not Disturb.
You might want to set up your laptop in front of the window so you get the best lighting and give your background a look over to ensure a clean and professional background – and remember that your choice of books says a lot about you. Bookshelves in the background really took off in news video interviews but remember Nadine Dorries and her empty bookcases during lockdown and the ridicule that brought?
The good thing about a video call interview is that they can’t see what’s in front of you, so have your water nearby lest you get dry mouth due to nerves, and have your notes sitting nearby, even propped up so you can sneakily read while you answer.
Check your technology
Half the battle with video call interviews is the technology. As much as tech takes a step forward, it takes a step back. Sure, your smartphone can track your movements but it also can’t make a single phone call without repeated use of the phrase “Can you hear me now?”
You don’t have to worry about a phone signal with a video call interview, but you should make sure your Wi-Fi signal is reliable, particularly if you are in a public space. Have a test call to make sure your camera and microphone are working well, and if it’s a new platform to you, you might want to take a tour of the platform and familiarise yourself with the functions. This will be particularly important if you have to share a file, like a portfolio or concept PowerPoint.
Dress professionally
This might get overlooked. It’s really tempting to simply dress for a video call interview from the head up and sit in your pyjama bottoms and hope you don’t have to get up. But, as we’ve mentioned, interruptions happen. Maybe you have to close a window because a car alarm is going off outside, or a delivery shows up right in the middle of your video call interview. Dress for an interview from head to toe – not least because it will get you in the headspace and will make you feel more confident as you talk about your professionalism.
Body language and eye contact
When it comes to composing yourself on the call, make sure to keep the basics, even on a video call interview. Look directly into the camera to simulate eye contact, keep your posture well in your seat and use natural hand gestures when speaking.
And remember that showing up early is still appreciated, even in a video call interview. Login a couple of minutes early to address any technical issues and let the team know that you’re ready on time.
You might want to adjust for audio delays. Speak clearly and pause occasionally to allow time for your interviewers to interject if they need to and allow time for the interviewer to ask follow-up questions.
Remember to prepare as you would for an in-person interview
All of this isn’t to say that you should forget your interview prep as you would for an in-person interview. Make sure that you research the company and the role you’re applying for, have your answers ready for common interview questions, and have some questions ready for the interviewer.
Conclusion
A video call interview doesn’t need to be any more daunting than an in-person interview, but it does have to be taken seriously as a job interview. All of this is secondary to making sure you’re right for the role, the role is right for you, and you have the answers to prove it.