As the world and our industry recovers from the impact of the Covid -19 pandemic, recruitment practices are still feeling the effects of restrictions. As such, telephone and more often virtual video call interviews are now commonplace and are likely to continue to be an active part of the early stages of most company's recruitment campaigns.
We are here to support you through this process. This is your shot at securing an exciting new role and we want to make sure you fully maximise your chances.
Below is a list of things to prepare for when requested for a video call interview. We realise video interviews can feel unusual, but the preparation below will give you a strong chance of success.
1. Charge it up and be connected
Ensure that you have a strong Wi-Fi connection and if you’re using a laptop or tablet, make sure it’s fully charged for your interview
2. Test run your tech
At least in an hour ahead of your interview, make sure the app (e.g. Zoom, MS Teams, Google Hangout etc.) you've been requested to interview on is fully downloaded.
Check that your computer’s camera, microphone and internet connection are working and the volume is up. Do a trial run with a friend if possible. Ensure you have enough time to rectify any issues.
3. Dress as though it was a face to face interview
Dress as you would for an in-person interview — from head to toe. Doing so will make you feel more confident.
4. Avoid interruptions
Plan ahead to avoid unnecessary interruptions. Set up in a place that's free from distractions and let other people in your home aware of your interview schedule to minimise background noise.
Turn off email, text and social media alerts, software updates and other notifications that may pop up on the screen during the interview. Small pop ups can really knock you off your stride when answering a question.
5. Be early – be prepared!
Log in five or 10 minutes early so you can be calm and ready when the video interview begins. Have the job description and any notes you’ve made about the company or position in front of you. Employers really appreciate when you have clearly researched the company and have questions for them about the role.
Also have some examples prepared of projects you've worked or skills you have that are relevant to the role. These are just prompts but they are really useful when you're put 'on the spot' by a question.
Expect to field some common interview questions, including:
- Tell me about yourself
- Why do you want to work here?
- Why are you leaving your current job?
- What are your weaknesses?
- How do you handle pressure?
- How do you work within a team?
- Can you give an example of a time you overcame a problem/issue at work
Further details of how to prepare for these questions can be found in our Competency / Behavioural Questions interview guide.
6. Eye contact
It's easy for your eyes to wander when the person you’re talking to isn’t in the room. Maintain virtual eye contact by looking directly into the camera rather than at the screen or at your own picture. Have your computer stationary and on a flat service so that you can look directly at the camera with your face centred in the screen. You camera should be roughly at head height, 'up the nose' conversations aren't a good look!
Look interested and happy to be there, they are assessing your 'team fit' too so you want to be as personable as possible.
7. Don't speak over the interviewer
This is an easy mistake to make as video calls are often subject to brief delays. Allow the interviewer time to finish and take a pause before you answer to make sure they're finished and ready to hear you. Likewise, when you respond, speak and pause, allow time for them to comment/answer.
8. Most importantly – treat this as a 'real' interview.
Have questions ready for them at the end. Thank them for their time and reconfirm your interest in the role, team and company (if applicable!)
If your interview has been arranged by Live Recruitment, your Account Manager is here to support you in your interview preparation however they can. If you have any questions about the role or the company, or want to conduct a trial video call interview please let them know.
Good Luck!
The Live team