What do I need to know about video interviews?

Video interviews are becoming increasingly common with the rise of international business and the development of relevant technology. Although a video interview can be a strange experience, preparing yourself for the demands will help you to avoid any pitfalls. Unlike a phone interview, you will be able to see your interviewer during a video interview and can therefore read any non-verbal cues. This should actually make a video interview a less daunting prospect than one via telephone, as you can feed-off of the interviewer's expressions and reactions. However, knowing how to conduct yourself professionally via video is important, especially given most of people are more familiar with video chatting as an informal activity.

The first step with a successful video interview involves planning how to frame yourself in the shot. In the same way as you take care of your appearance when attending an interview in person, you must ensure you are well presented via video. You should set up the camera so as to frame your entire head and shoulders. Placing the camera on a desk or table and checking the angle ahead of time will prevent any awkward adjustments at the beginning of the interview. Sitting somewhere well lit, where you can be easily seen, will also make the interview flow more smoothly. Place the microphone somewhere where it will pick up your voice, and try not to ruffle papers or make any other distracting sounds near the microphone.

Additionally, you should make good use of verbal cues to make up for the fact that you aren't doing the interview in-person. For example, if you want to address one of the interviewers’ questions, then using their name will make it clear who you are talking to. This makes up for a lack of eye contact, and makes you still seem engaging. Similarly, when someone else is talking, make an effort to look interested. Often your image will be projected larger than in real life, so your expressions will be easier to monitor.

One of the most common mistakes made by candidates in video interviews is that they treat the interview differently than a standard, professional conversation. Instead, successful candidates treat video interviews the same way as any other interview, only making slight adjustments to accommodate for the video format. Researching and preparing potential interview questions, dressing professionally, and engaging fully with the demands of the interview will help ensure that you come across well.