When lockdown began in March 2020, g2 made the decision to move all of our face to face interviews over to video interviews. This meant we could keep everyone safe while searching for some fantastic people to join our vibrant team.
It looks as if video call interviews will be the way forward for the time being and g2 will not be the only company adapting their interview process.
We chatted to our Recruitment Manager and put together some simple hints and tips for preparing for video interviews and landing that dream job in 2021;
- Testing, testing…1,2,3
You should be advised prior to the interview of the platform that will be used for your interview so make sure you are familiar with how it works and download any apps if required.
You could always ask a friend or family member to do a test run with you so you can check your audio and webcam in advance. On the day, make sure your device is well charged and connected to a strong wifi connection to avoid disruption.
- Pick the perfect location
Think about your positioning at home for the interview, you wouldn’t take a family photo with you to a face to face interview so do you want them on display in the background?
Where possible, place yourself against a plain background with no reflections from windows, make sure where you are sitting is comfortable so you don’t fidget and ensure the area is quiet with no distractions or interruptions.
- Dress accordingly
You might be sitting on the sofa for the interview, but it is still an interview and your opportunity to make that first impression as professional as possible.
Dress as you would if you were to attend the interview face to face but also think about how your clothes may look on the screen – it is best to avoid busy patterns.
- Try not to fidget
It can sometimes be hard to engage with your interviewer when you are not in a face to face setting so your body language is really important. Be comfortable, but don’t slouch, try not to fidget or touch your face too much.
Listen and respond to the questions clearly, don’t rush your responses in case there is a slight delay.
- Be prepared
Prepare yourself as you would for any interview; do research on the company, ensure you understand the role you are applying for, have a copy of your application or CV in front of you and have some questions ready.
There are some plus points to video interviews so take advantage of them: have post it notes stuck to your screen or make yourself flash cards about the company and the role.
We hope the hints and tips from our Recruitment Manager help you prepare for upcoming video interviews and allow you to give out the best first impression possible.
Technology may work against you meaning not every interview goes smoothly but we would also like to remind you to be kind to yourself while adapting to changes. The company will understand if you have technical issues just ensure you give the company enough time to rearrange the interview or plan another option.
You are doing the best you can, keep it up and Good Luck!