Contents
- 1. Choose and set up the ideal place for the video call
- 2. Check that you know all the features available on the program
- 3. Confirm that your profile photo and account name are professional
- 4. Read carefully the job description, the company profile
- 5. Connect to the call around 10 minutes earlier
- 6. Dress appropriately
- 7. Using appropriate body language on camera is crucial
- 8. Be aware that there can be some technical issues
- 9. Add the closing touch and send a follow-up email
You have been called for an interview for a job you are really looking forward to, and you want this to go the best possible to nail the position. They have told you the details of the video-call, the time, and the date. It is now on your calendar all set up, but, this would be your first interview on remote and you need to prepare. Where should you start?
1. Choose and set up the ideal place for the video call
Whether you think it’s in your room, the living room, the studio, the kitchen, make sure you settle on one and prepare. Think about the space the interviewer will be able to look behind you through your camera. Make sure the room is organized, you have good lighting, and there are not any distractions that could take the attention of the interviewer away. Let your family or flatmates know you are having an interview with anticipation, so you avoid them interrupting you in the middle of the call.
2. Check that you know all the features available on the program
Check that you know all the features available on the program in which you are having the call. Research how to use the program and watch some tutorials if necessary to be fully prepared when the time comes. Verify that you know how to turn on the camera, the microphone, share screen – if, on the occasion, you need to do so – sharing files, or sending chats. A great way to be comfortable with the program is to make a test call with a friend or a family member, and ensure that you are familiar with all of its functions prior to the interview.
3. Confirm that your profile photo and account name are professional
In a face-to-face interview, the company’s first impression would be whether you are wearing professional attire or not, and your body language. However, in a video call, every detail counts. The first thing your future employer sees is the profile picture, so make sure you have the appropriate one up!
4. Read carefully the job description, the company profile
Like with any other job interview, read carefully the job description, the company profile, and prepare some questions and conversation points in advance. Use your CV and point out some talking points that could kickstart an interesting chat. This will create a more natural flow of the conversation and will make you feel more confident with your answers as you have some sense of control over the topics, avoiding you ending up reading directly from your CV.
5. Connect to the call around 10 minutes earlier
On the day of the interview, connect to the call around 10 minutes earlier. In a face-to-face meeting, it would be considered unprofessional to arrive late. When the meeting is online, this is even more critical, as you did not have the need to commute or might have not been affected by external factors, like traffic. Make sure your device is fully charged and keep your charger nearby, just in case. When the time of the interview hits the clock, you will be readily available for when the interviewer connects. Logging in late can make you seem unorganized and someone who cannot manage your time.
6. Dress appropriately
Being at home can make you feel more comfortable and you might choose to wear something more casual, however, remember that this interview is your first approach to the company. So, dress as if you were going to a face-to-face meeting: as professionally as you can think of. Keep in mind what your future employer can see through the camera, so if you decide to wear a half-business outfit, half pajamas, you might regret it if you need to get up…
7. Using appropriate body language on camera is crucial
Remember to smile, pay attention at all times, sit straight, and stay focused on the conversation. A great tip is to look straight into your camera instead of at the screen, so it feels like you are making eye contact. You might want to practice this beforehand so it can feel more natural.
8. Be aware that there can be some technical issues
Be aware that there can be some technical issues, and that it is normal. There can be some connectivity problems, so try not to speak at the same time as the interviewer, do not interrupt them, and avoid speaking for too long without pausing so the conversation flows naturally. Keep in mind that, even though you fully prepared, there are faults in technology, and that maybe the call can end all of a sudden. If this happens, try to keep calm, and wait for further assistance from them. If you are not able to speak with them, send them an email or a message as soon as possible asking when would be a good time to continue the conversation.
9. Add the closing touch and send a follow-up email
This is a must in face-to-face interviews, as well as online. Send a brief message thanking the person for their time and saying you are truly interested in the role, and you will be keeping an eye out for the next steps or any news from them. Finish the email restating your interest and gratitude.
Nowadays, technology is present in every selection process, and video call interviews are becoming more popular among recruiters and HR departments. If you are looking for a job, you will most likely have a video conference, especially now in times when the number of remote workers is increasing. If you follow these tips and fully prepare yourself before the interview, you will for sure get positive feedback and, hopefully, a successful resolution.
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