4 Tips To Get Video Interviews Right

We also had an experience with video-interviews that went less than anticipated. Poor link, last-minute download of the appropriate software, time zone mix-ups, poor sound trust us, the list goes on! Here are five tips and tricks for more people having to work from home than ever before to interview candidates from home via video.

1. Prepare candidate

The nearest alternative to an in-person interview would be a video interview if it goes well. However, loads of things can go wrong with a little preparation on both sides, which is fairly easily controlled. Set aside some time to train your nominee, who may not be as comfortable as you are with the process.

Let them know that it is a video interview and they should use their camera. Mutual webcams are important because they mean that you can see non-verbal indications, not talk about each other, and have a much better experience in general.

Tell them what app you are going to use, so they can update it beforehand. Skype or Zoom is a great device for this because it is freemium-based available.

Provide them with instructions and standards concerning setting up a good camera. Effective lighting, clear backdrop, and angles are also of great importance.

Double-check time and date, particularly when you're talking to someone in another time zone.

2. Try a test call

You'll get the software downloaded in advance as the nominee, and know how to use it. Call a buddy for a check to make sure your camera and microphone are functioning properly, and you're having fun sharing links, etc. And practice what you're teaching to ensure your camera's eye line, lighting, and the backdrop is all right!

3. A good microphone is important

It 's important to have a working microphone but be aware of the sound environment you 're in when taking the call. What other sounds might it catch up with? Calling from a coffee shop may look chic and trendy, but it will add to the call a lot of needless noise. Likewise, additional noise distortion produces a negative image with leaky headphones and defective devices, which wasted time. When you call from home, know who else is there and let them know that you're getting a call and you need some quietness.

4. Still calls for first impressions

A video interview is often superior to a phone call. This will be as similar as possible to an in-person and it can have an effect on how you behave, talk, and look. Note that although you might be at home, you are also suitably representing yourself and your business with an external customer. And dare we suggest the whole way we dress properly. Too often a qualified top half and bottom half pajama-ed make appearances on video calls.

Conclusion

Look at the video camera so the interviewer can have eye contact with you and ask questions for better discussion back and forth. Make sure both you and the context look professional when the webcam is switched on. More importantly, before your interview, practice using your camera and the Skype, Zoom, or Interview app.