Video interviews have become very common in the workforce these days. They are not only used for entry level positions but also for senior positions as a way of doing the first-round assessment of potential candidates all the way through making offers.
Firms such as KPGM and Goldman Sachs have started making extensive use of video technology for interviews.
Video interviews are different than in-person interviews, but with a few useful tips you can come off appearing confident and self-assured.
5 Tips to Help You Make a Great Impression
1. Do Not Use a Script – If the system allows you to retake questions, do not try to write down your answers and then read them. This will make you sound robotic and you’ll lose that interpersonal connection with your audience which is so important. Remember that communication is crucial in almost any role and there won’t always be a script in front of you. The important thing is to relax and just let your personality show through. This will be much more effective than if you’re simply reciting prewritten, factory-standard interview lines that most people have heard before.
2. Create Dialogue – Your goal during a video interview is to give an interviewer the feeling that you are engaged in a real conversation. Be yourself, and show passion, energy, and interest. Also, be sure to set the camera up so that it’s eye level with you or slightly higher as this will provide the best view for the interviewer and give the impression of a face-to-face interaction.
3. Note the Time Limit – You will not be afforded the opportunity to go off on a lengthy tangent. Most questions will have a time limit of 90 seconds to 3 minutes. When you’re approaching the limit, the system will give you a warning light, and once the time is expired your video is complete. This won’t leave the best impression. The interviewer is simply going to assume that you didn’t pay attention or were unprepared.
4. Assess Your Non-Verbals – You need to look into the camera and be aware of the same non-verbals you would during an in-person interview. Non-verbals include such things as body language, physical appearance, environments, etc.
5. Critique YOU – Video! – Use your phone or computer as an aid to help you appear prepared. Practice answering some questions that are more than likely to be asked early on during the interview. Nail that first impression by keeping within the framework of specific time limitations. Here are 3 questions that you should start practicing today:
- Tell me about your career thus far? – 2 minutes
- What is an area of opportunity for you? – 2 minutes
- Why are you seeking a new role? – 90 seconds
Need Help Nailing Your Video Interviews?
When you keep in mind these basic tips, you’ll be on the right track to making a great impression on your next video interview. If you would like some additional professional guidance, I’d be happy to connect with you to see how I can help you successfully nail your next upcoming video interview. Contact me today for more information!
