The Ultimate Guide to Acing Your Video Interview

With technology's rapid rise and recruiters leveraging it, video interviews are becoming increasingly common, and ultimately should be expected prior to meeting your potential future employer.  If you're new to video or virtual job interviews this comprehensive guide with all our top tips could help you succeed in the first stage of the interview process.

Basic Interview Rules Still Apply

Even if your interview is virtual, you must prepare just as thoroughly as you would for an in-person interview.

• Research on the company, their market, products, and competitors. Preparation is key and will provide you with a basic understanding of which sector you could be working in. 
• Read the Job Description carefully review the job description to understand what the role entails. This helps you highlight your key skills and how they align with the job role.
• Dress as you would for an onsite interview – looking your best boosts your confidence and leaves a positive impression and suggests you’re taking the online meeting seriously. 
• Be ready some time before the start of the interview. Again, preparation is key. 
• Find out the names and job titles of your interviewers. A quick look on LinkedIn can give you valuable insights into your potential future colleagues.
• Prepare for potential questions and think about your answers. Part of your preparation should allow you to raise any queries about the company or the role, make notes however try not to rely heavily on them and keep focus. 

Get Your Technology Ready

Make sure everything is set up and working well in advance – it often takes longer than expected.

• Ensure any required apps or software are installed and functioning. Some may require you to create an account, which can take time. Make sure you have the invitation to join the virtual meeting if needed.
• Spend a few minutes getting familiar and comfortable with new software. Explore the settings and ensure you know how it works.
• Do a test run with a friend, family member, or colleague to ensure everything works smoothly during the live interview.
• A strong Wi-Fi signal and a fully charged battery are crucial. Keep your charger nearby just in case.

Optimise Your Interview Environment

Choose a comfortable, distraction-free spot for your interview.

• Select a quiet area where you won’t be disturbed. Inform family members or housemates about your interview to minimise noise. 
• Your interview location should be well-lit. Keep your meeting essentials within arm’s reach.
• A plain, decluttered background is best, and now with video interviewing platforms you can also select a plain or blurred background if you don’t have access to somewhere fairly neutral at home. 
• If using a phone or tablet, place it on a stable platform. Test the video and camera angle, adjusting as needed.

Know Your Video Interview Software

Your interviewer or recruitment agency will inform you which video conferencing software you’ll be using and how to join the call.

Common Video Call Software:

• Skype: Log in using your Microsoft credentials (such as Hotmail or Office 365 account).

• Zoom: Sign up for a Zoom account or join via an email invitation or meeting ID.

• Hangouts: Use your Google account (Gmail address) to sign in and provide it to the interviewer.

• WhatsApp: Supports video calling on smartphones, with a desktop app available. Use your phone number to set it up.

• Microsoft Teams: Part of Microsoft Office, widely used by organisations. You can join as a guest via an email invite if you don’t have an Office 365 account.

Additional Video Interview Tips

• Take your time to respond, ensuring the interviewer has finished speaking. Use concise statements to accommodate any audio or video lag. This prevents talking over each other.
• Treat the video interview as if you’re meeting in person. Smile, make eye contact with the web camera, be personable, and use confident body language, like sitting up straight. Avoid slouching or leaning your head on your hands.

If you have any questions about video interviews, we at b3 are here to help.