Few situations require polished presence more than a job interview, especially a video interview. Nearly 75 percent of executives use live video interviews for recruiting, so if you haven’t had one yet, your number might be up.
Showing your professional best on a webcam sounds tough, but there are some simple ways to ace a video interview.
Before the Interview
- Dress the part—head to toe. Suit on top and pj’s on the bottom? Think again. You’ll exude confidence and professionalism when you look your best, even if the interviewer can’t see your freshly shined shoes.
- Test your technology. Check and double-check your camera and Internet connection a day before the interview. Test the video software by calling a friend.
- Prep the space. Take a look at what your audience will see in the video, and make sure it looks flattering and professional. This means clearing clutter or personal items and making sure the lighting is just right.
- Practice Q&A. As you would for an in-person interview, practice giving strong, benefit-focused responses and prepare smart questions to ask throughout the interview.
During the Interview
- Get there early. Just like you would for an in-person interview, dial in at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time.
- Introduce to impress. You can impress potential employers with a strong introduction (first and last name), even if you can’t shake hands. It’s also a good idea to conduct a quick audiovisual test to ensure that the interviewers can see and hear you.
- Engage your audience. Keep strong body language in mind throughout the interview. Make eye contact with the camera—not yourself—and use deliberate gestures. Don’t forget to sit up straight and smile.
- Treat it like an in-person interview. The most important thing for you to remember is that this opportunity is just as critical as an in-person interview. Use the time wisely with insightful questions and thoughtful responses.
You can practice your on-camera charisma with Dardis. We offer Virtual Presentation Skills training that’s a great match for those conducting—or participating in—video interviews.