Wow, you’ve made it past your initial interview. Whoo! But, oh no, here comes the dreaded video interview. Somehow, video interviews are very stressful and makes you worry more. There’s that fear that your internet just so happens to stop working on that day or that suddenly everybody in the neighborhood wants to be loud. Plus, you have to worry about providing the proper body language, too. Worry not, my friend, I’ve got tips here to help you worry less and ace that video interview so that the only challenge you’ll be facing is seeing the team in person.
Before the Interview
A day or two before your video interview, make sure you take a look at things that need to be prepared. Whatever video calling platform you’ll be using, make sure you look professional. Yes, that means changing that username you’ve had since middle school into something more up-to-date and professional. Furthermore, choose a good profile photo. While it certainly doesn’t have to be a headshot, it should still look professional and classy.
Your profile photo shouldn’t be the only one that’s looking professional. You should also look professional in person. While it may be hard changing out of those comfy sweatpants, you should try to look your best. Depending on the company, wear something you would consider appropriate for the role and company you’re applying to. You shouldn’t forget about your background setting, too. Choose a place with the best lighting so your interviewer can see you well and take a look at things that could be seen in the background when you have your call. If the situation calls for it, you might have to do a bit of tidying up.
Lastly, and probably the most important thing to do pre-interview, is to check your tech. You wouldn’t want things to abruptly end halfway through now, would you? Check that your internet is reliable and test your connection before the call. Also, keep some headphones nearby; you might need it unexpectedly.
During the Interview
This is where you’ve got to give it your best. While the interview is conducted over a video call, it’s still important that you leave a lasting impression and stay focused. Having a video interview instead of an in-person interview means there’s a chance for the interviewee to let their focus wander. To avoid getting distracted, remove all possible distractions. Close all open tabs you have and turn off all notifications or, better yet, turn your phone off for the entirety of the call.
During the interview, it’s also important to keep your interviewer engaged. I recommend using a lot of nonverbal cues like hand gestures and maintaining eye contact. Using the right hand gestures will help you add more emphasis to words you are saying, and maintaining eye contact will help you appear more confident. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you have any and, don’t forget the formalities. Before the call ends, ask your interviewer courteously and tactfully how the process will continue and what the next steps are. It’s helpful to know whether there will be more after it so you can also prepare yourself.
After the Interview
After your interview, it wouldn’t hurt to thank them for their time and giving you the opportunity. While a thank you note most likely won’t turn that ‘no’ into a ‘yes’, it’s still a polite thing to do that interviewers appreciate. Additionally, if they don’t get back to you within the timeframe they gave you, it’s good to send a respectful follow-up email. It may make you feel like you’re pestering, but your interviewer may have lots of other things to take care of, so a gentle reminder might be the thing they need.