HR Tips for Virtual Job Interview
Are you prepared for your virtual interview?

Skype, Zoom and other tools have been used for years to conduct remote interviews more out of necessity than anything else.  In this new world of recruitment with COVID-19 to deal with, I have had the opportunity/requirement to conduct many video interviews and would like to share some learnings from the interviewer perspective.

Interviewers are more understanding right now than they would normally be – hearing dogs barking and kids crying is part of the daily routines.  I understand that not all of these factors can be eliminated but there are certainly some basics that you should be able to work towards.

 Here are 5 Tips to Help you “Win” the Video Interview

  1. Set the stage.  Think about your surrounding and how they will show up.  Make sure the lighting works – too much sunlight can make the picture appear very dark.  As much as possible, make sure you can secure yourself in a quiet space for the scheduled time.  And please, test your headset BEFORE the interview.
  • Treat the interview as if it were an in-person interview.  Make sure you look professional and convey a professional image.  Be on time.  Have the job posting and your resume handy.  Prepare for the interview as you would for any other.  I had one candidate indicate she did not expect me to ask formal questions.  Why not?  I did schedule an interview.
  • Test your technology.  Download the video conference software or app in advance and test it with a friend.  Test your headset if you are using one.  Make sure the room you are in has a strong connection to limit interruptions.
  • Look at the camera.  It sounds silly but people aren’t totally accustomed to using their web cam.  Make sure you are looking at the camera and not at yourself.  Test the camera and make sure you position it at eye level and are at a comfortable distance from the camera.  Smile!
  • End on a high note.  Now is the time to re-iterate your interest.  Prepare some questions.  If I don’t get at least a couple of questions, I am not sure the candidate is really excited about the opportunity.  Ask about next steps.  Ask questions that will inform you about the culture of the company and whether there is a fit.