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4 Tips For Success In Video Interviews

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By Michael DeSafey

Video interviewing is the act of conducting an employment interview on the internet through any video communication software such as Facetime or Skype. In addition to popular ones like Skype, a company can use their own video communication software or any other lesser-known ones on the market for video interviews.

There are typically two types of video interviews, there is the one-way video interview, and there is the video call. In the one-way interview, the employer provides a series of questions to candidates and the candidate is required to record his or her interview video and send it in.

In a video call interview, the candidate answers the video call when the interviewer calls and talks to the interviewer over video. The conversation is in real-time, and unlike in the one-way video interview; the candidate can see the interviewer and vice versa.

Video interviewing has become a common trend among recruiters for various fields. It is cost-efficient and time-efficient and can be used anywhere in the world because employers can carry out assessments and evaluations without the need for travel and other hassles of the interview process.

Interviewing in this way is different from the usual face-to-face interviews employers used in the past. It may feel a bit awkward and uncomfortable talking to a face on a computer screen, but understanding the process and learning how you can prepare for success can be a big help.

Here are the pros and cons of video interviewing, as well as everything you need to know to get through your next video interview with success.

The Pros of Video Interviewing:

  • It is very cost-efficient and time-efficient for both the employer and candidate.
  • A candidate can be interviewed from anywhere in the world, closing the gap caused by geographic location.
  • It is a great way of screening candidates before calling them in for a face-to-face meeting
  • An interview can be recorded for additional review and evaluation.

The Cons of Video Interviewing:

  • A candidate must have access to the internet to be eligible or even be in the running for the job.
  • Video interviewing can have connectivity problems which can be very inconvenient and stressful.
  • Talking over the computer can be awkward for both parties and increase nerves on the part of the candidate.
  • Some people feel that they interview better in person as opposed to over video.

How to Prepare for the Interview:

  1. Ensure your computer’s software, webcam, and microphone are all working properly before the interview.

Test your system and connection by making a test call to a friend or family member an hour or so before the interview and familiarize yourself with video calling long beforehand.

Run the test in good enough time to give yourself enough time to fix any problems that may arise. Check your internet connection in order to avoid any connectivity problems during the call.

2. Prepare Your Surroundings

Recruiters will not only see you, but they will also see your surroundings. Ensure the area behind you is clean, neat, and not distracting. You should go somewhere quiet and be sure to turn your cell phone ringer off. Check that the lighting is good and the interviewer can see you clearly and you can also see the interviewer clearly.

3. Dress Nicely

Although you won’t be seeing the interviewer in person, it is important to still dress as though you were going to the recruiters office for a job interview. The job market can be competitive and all interviews should be taken very seriously.

4. Familiarize Yourself With The Company

Beforehand, learn about the company you are interviewing for. Get to know what the company does, what they look for in an employee, recent news and press releases of the company, and what they stand for. You will stand out as a candidate if you have taken the time to get to know the company and can make sure you are the employee that they are looking for.

Most importantly, be punctual and do not miss the video call! Tardiness to a video interview is just as bad as being late or missing an in-person job interview.

As the internet brings the world closer and bridges the gap between nations, video interviews are becoming a much more common practice in various industries. Applying for jobs across the world is now possible with video calling as it eliminates the need for travel and saves time for both candidates and recruiters.

About the Author

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing http://www.webuildstaffing.com. To learn more about Michael or to follow his blog please visit http://www.michaeldesafey.com