Video interviews, now quite frequently a part of the process in the ‘modern way’ of recruitment and accelerated further by a global pandemic, it appears – are here to stay. Whether it be due to lockdowns/ restrictions (shudder), for ease and time saving for both clients and candidates, geographical constraints etc. I think most of us can agree they play a big part in the innovation of recruitment in today’s world.

Having completed hundreds of video interviews myself, participated in the same number of online meetings/ quizzes (shudder number two), here are my top tips to nail your interview virtually…

Prepare and research properly!

Despite being virtual a video interview this is still an interview, and you should prepare for it just the same as you would if it was face to face. Thoroughly research the brand, your interviewers and where possible/ if applicable mystery shops. Read through the job description of the role and be prepared with live examples of where you’ve demonstrated/ exhibited the skills and behaviours required for the role.

Setting up for success

Whilst the beauty of video interviews means you can do them from (almost) anywhere – remember this is still an interview. Really consider the environment you are completing the interview in – is this somewhere you won’t be disrupted? What is the background noise level like? Is your background as clear as possible (and is there anything visible that shouldn’t be…I won’t link here a certain BBC video mishap…!).

Check your tech!

It might sound obvious (for me on the most part, tech couldn’t be more the opposite of my forte!) but it’s so important to check everything is working properly in advance of your interview. Have you got sufficient internet coverage? Are your headphones working and connected properly? Have you used this medium of video interview before and do you know how to navigate the different views/ screen sharing etc.? Have you received through your invite to join the interview yet (spoiler alert – if you haven’t received, chasing this a few minutes before the interview is due to start is unnecessary stress and may mean things are delayed – not an ideal start to you showing your superstardom towards this role!)

Presentation and Punctuality

In case you haven’t yet spotted the trend – this is still, very much so, an interview – and you should (perhaps ever so slightly less formally) dress to impress for it! First impressions really do matter. Most of us have done zoom calls in tracksuits/ PJs/ slippers but ONLY where isn’t visible – this is fine and whilst I can’t personally see the combination of a white shirt/ fairy Pyjama bottoms becoming the next fashion trend, make sure you look and feel ready to put your best (slipper or not) foot forward.

Ensure you are ready to go at least 5-10 minutes before your interview and have joined the call – there is the bonus of not having to travel anywhere for a video interview and so there is no excuse for being late (especially with reviewing the previous tech tip), even if it is by a minute or two. Would you be comfortable arriving at a F2F interview at 2.02pm when your interview is at 2pm…probably (hopefully) not!

During the interview

One of the benefits of video interviews is that (if you choose) you are able to utilise your own notes if you feel the need to – there is nothing wrong with this, however I would recommend to put them in places that aren’t too distracting from the main view of shiny you – AND - you are using these as reminders rather than reading straight from them for the entirety of the interview. Eye contact/ body language is still very important and ensure you are comfortable with your screen set up and can see everyone you’re interviewing with (and not spending too much time checking how you’re looking on camera – another bad habit of mine that I’ve learnt to steer away from!).

Best of luck!

Maddie