10 tips to crush your video interview!
Congrats! If you’re reading this, you’re likely preparing for an interview. Many tech-enabled companies have long embraced video interviewing, but now, nearly every industry is relying on video too due to COVID-19. Whether it’s your first time or zillionth time prepping for a video interview, we want to help! Here the top 10 tips to crush your video interview by Backpack Talent:
Do your research. Regular rules still apply here. Read up on the company, their value proposition, competitors, any recent press releases. Dig in on their products, services, or offerings. Look up the names and roles of interview participants. Figure out what interests you about the company and how to convey that in an interview! Yep, this goes for ALL kinds of interviews.
Test your tech. Be sure to test your audio, internet connection, video application, earbuds/headphones, and charge your devices of choice! Nobody likes experiencing technical difficulties on interview day.
Minimize distractions. Turn your phone on silent, turn off notifications, (we’re looking at you, iMessage!), make sure your mutt, toddler, and Vitamix are out of earshot. Lastly, turn off all applications except the video call you are in.
Look good, feel good. Check lighting (go for natural light, avoid backlighting) before you start. Dress the part and make sure your background is professional and clutter-free.
Look into the camera, not at yourself. Using a phone? Mount it. Using a laptop? Set it high enough. The best way to mimic making eye contact is by looking directly at the camera. This makes it a more human experience!
Have a back-up plan. Install the video application you are using on two devices so you have one as a second option.
Post-its are your friend. We recommend using small post-its (with short notes on them) around the perimeter of your laptop screen as method to keep you on track during a video interview.
Don’t ask HR-related questions in the first interview. You may have a short amount of time to ask questions. Plan accordingly by developing thoughtful questions specific to the role and overall business goals. Save questions related to work benefits, hours, perks, (and yes, even compensation!) and more for the recruiter or someone on the HR team.
Follow-up rules still apply. Send a personalized thank you note after the interview concludes (email is the new snail mail). Keep it brief, don’t overthink it, and have the recruiter pass it on for you.
Show that you’re engaged and interested. We hate telling you to smile (really!), but it goes a long way during an interview. It is a way to project warmth during an interpersonal exchange. Other recommendations: nod, use hand gestures when appropriate, be sure to thank them at the end in lieu of a handshake.
Feeling better now? We hope you feel ready to crush your video interview! If you have any questions about video interview etiquette, drop us a note - the team at Backpack Talent would love to help!
