The Art of Excelling in a Video Interview

by Chetna Nagar

Video job interviews have now become a standard part of the hiring process. Often applicants take this less seriously than an onsite interview and that is where you might lose out.

HERE IS A QUICK GUIDE FOR YOU TO BRING YOUR A-GAME AT YOUR NEXT VIDEO INTERVIEW:

1. Use a laptop or computer not phone and make sure its fully charged or is plugged in and is updated

2. Check the interview video links in your invite beforehand to make sure your video/audio is working, and internet connection is good

3. Communicate with your household and pick a quiet space

4. Choose a professional background minus clutter and distracting items in the background

5. Pick a bright room, preferable facing a window so the natural light falls on your face. If you don’t have a window, you can even keep a table lamp with light on you. Do not have the light behind you.

6. Silence your phone

7. Wear professional attire, suits and ties may not be required but polo necks or button-down shirts for men and neutral colored tops and shirts for women. Avoid sweatshirts or crew necks tees with messages

8. Close all other tabs in your laptop and turn off notifications if possible

9. Have a glass of water next to you

10. Maintain your focus, smile, and confidence and try to look straight at the camera

11. Research the company, the role and preferable the interviewer beforehand and be prepared to ask a couple of good questions in the end

12. After your interview do send a thank you note to the interviewer expressing your enthusiasm for the role, a one or two liner on why you think you are a good fit and thanking them for their time

As a job seeker your goal is to put your best foot forward and ensure you are making a genuine connection with the interviewer. Besides and quoting Arthur Ashe “One important key to success is self-confidence. An important key to self-confidence is preparation.”