Top Tips - 7 Tips to nail a video interview

​While web-based interviews had become increasingly common over the past few years, the COVID pandemic has catapulted this increase exponentially in just over a year. We put together this short blog full of great tips to help you embrace technology and master a video interview.

BEFORE THE INTERVIEW

Start your preparation a few days before your interview. Research the company by looking at their website, social channels and press releases. Get familiar with your CV and prepare for possible interview questions.

Avoiding last-minute prep will help you remain as relaxed as possible the night before, allowing you to get a good night’s sleep so that you are fresh and energised for your interview and ready to make a great impression on your interviewer.

Consider setting up a practice interview with a friend before the interview to make sure you’re happy with how you come across on screen and to help you get familiar with the platform. Check the microphone, picture quality and your location. Make sure you sit somewhere quiet that won’t be interrupted, is well-lit and comfortable.

Here’s a pre-web-based interview checklist that may help you prepare:

• Ensure you have a calendar invite which includes the link for your web-based meeting.

• Test your microphone and audio before the call.

• Ensure you’re sat in a well-lit room. Tip: Don’t sit with your back to a window.

• Get comfortable and ensure you won’t be disturbed.

DRESS PROFESSIONALLY

Dressing smartly for your web-based interview will put you in the right frame of mind for your interview and will help you make a good first impression. If you’re working with a recruitment agency, they should be able to help you prepare for this aspect of the interview by giving you inside information on appropriate dress. Even if you don’t get this insight, don’t wear your pyjamas or loungewear for your interview – make the effort!

DON’T BE LATE

You wouldn’t turn up late to a face-to-face job interview, so being late due to technical difficulties is inexcusable. Make sure you’re all set up at least 10 minutes before the interview starts to avoid any awkwardness. Ensure you have your notes and a glass of water to hand so you’re not fiddling with papers and you can stay hydrated during the interview.

BODY LANGUAGE

It’s important to remember to look at the camera and not the screen or yourself – this way the interviewer will feel you’re maintaining eye contact. Remember to smile and try to forget you’re talking to a computer screen and imagine the interviewer being in the room with you.

NOTES

Notes can be handy when you’re undertaking a web-based interview, but you’ll need to make sure your reference to them is subtle. Reading your notes will disrupt the natural flow of conversation and can make your look under-prepared.

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ANTICIPATE TECHNICAL ISSUES

If your technology fails during the interview, it’s important not to panic. Remain professional, the interviewer will be aware that some things are out of your control. If you can, email or call your recruitment agent or the interviewer from your phone while you attempt to re-establish connection. Take the time to test your equipment and connection in advance of the interview as well as immediately before the interview starts.

END ON A HIGH

Just like a face-to-face interview, you should try to end the interview summarising the key points as well as thanking the interviewer for their time, whilst also making sure you confirm the next steps.