The Video Interview

The letter became the e-mail. The conversation became the phone call, which in turn became the Facetime call and the interview became the video interview. Despite the vast majority of us being computer literate, the video interview still somehow manages to strike fear into even the most tech savvy among us. We forget all we know of interviews and we panic: How do I prepare for a video interview? How do I act? What do I wear? If you're asking yourself any of these questions, panic not. Get yourself comfy with a cup of something warm in one hand and something resembling a biscuit in the other and read on.

Before the Interview

Prepare as you would for any interview. The questions are going to be the same and the stakes are just as high. Make sure you prepare your answers to possible questions before hand so that you can easly navigate your way through the interview and land yourself that job!

Send any documents the interviewer has asked for or may need. For example, copies your CV and/or cover letter. It's also advisable that you print out copies for yourself; to refer to during the interview should you need to.

Test out the equipment. Make sure you know how to work any software or accessories the company may have specified you use. Also ensure it works properly on your computer and that there are no technical problems. Try a test call with a friend to make sure your web-cam and microphone are connected and working properly. Having to sort out things like this during the interview wastes time and looks unprofessional.

Be on time. That may sound strange for an interview you're more than likely going to attend from the comfort of your own home, but it's important that you're ‘on time' for the interview. Make sure you're online and properly set up and ready to go atleast 10 minutes before the specified time.

Dress professionally. It may well be a video interview, but it's an interview nevertheless and therefore you should dress appropriately in business attire – just as you would for a traditional face-to-face interview. Avoid the temptation to leave on those track-suit bottoms or pyjamas! The interviewer may only see your head and shoulders, but should you need to stand up you'll surely be caught out! Consult our advice on what to wear to your interview.

Keep the desk tidy. Make sure your desk is neat and there is nothing obstructing the webcam. A clean desk is a clean mind – and you're going to need just that to perform your best in the interview. Also make sure the background is plain so the interviewer can keep their full attention on you.

Find a quiet room where you're sure not to be disturbed or distracted by a family member or roommate wandering past in the background.

During the Interview

Don't fidget. Fidgeting not only makes you look disinterested and nervous but in the context of a video interview it also causes more noise than you'd think. Don't forget that your microphone picks up all sounds in the room, so you tapping your pen, rustling papers or cracking your nuckles will surely be heard by your interviewer.

Make eye contact. Or rather lens contact. While it may feel strange to look directly at the camera, it ensures that the interview gets eye contact. Avoid the temptation to look at your screen and consequently fill the screen with 3/4 of your forehead.

Ask questions. It's just as important in a video interview to ask questions, just as you're expected to in a traditional interview. Prepare some questions prior to the interview and refer to them during the interview.

After the Interview

Follow up. It's good manners and interview etiquette to make sure you take the time to send a follow up email. Thank your interviewer for their time and take the opportunity to reemphasise your interest in the job. If it comes down to the choice between you and one other candidate, a well written, thoughtful follow up e-mail could be the decider. 

Good Luck!