In today’s digital age, video interviews have become the norm for many companies, offering a blend of convenience and efficiency. They eliminate travel costs and provide flexibility in scheduling, making them an attractive option for both employers and interviewees. However, it’s a mistake to view video interviews as less formal or serious than their in-person counterparts. To ensure you present yourself in the best light, here are some essential tips for navigating a video interview successfully.
Essential Preparation Steps
Preparing for a video interview involves more than just brushing up on common questions and answers. The technical setup requires special attention:
- Software Familiarity: Confirm the video platform (e.g., Teams, Zoom, Skype, Google Hangouts) in advance. Download the necessary software, create an account if you don’t have one, and familiarise yourself with its features.
- Technical Check: A trial run with a friend or family member can help ensure your microphone, camera, and speakers are functioning correctly. This step also allows you to adjust the lighting and camera angle to avoid any unflattering shadows or angles.
- Stable Internet Connection: Verify your internet speed. A lagging or unstable connection can disrupt the flow of the interview and create a negative impression.
- Optimal Environment: Choose a quiet, well-lit setting where you won’t be interrupted. Ensure your background is neat and professional. The camera should be placed on a stable surface at eye level to simulate direct eye contact.
Dressing the Part
The adage “Dress for the job you want” still applies in a video interview:
- Business Casual: Go for a professional, business-casual attire. Even though you’re not in the same room, how you present yourself visually speaks volumes.
- Colour Considerations: Avoid wearing white, which can glare, and red, which may appear distorted on camera. Patterns like checks and stripes should also be avoided as they can cause visual distortions.
Documents and Cheat Sheets
- Preparation Materials: Have your CV and other relevant documents within reach. This allows you to reference them seamlessly during the conversation.
- Cheat Sheet Advantage: One benefit of video interviews is the ability to keep notes and prepared answers nearby. Write down key points or answers to anticipated questions. Place these notes in a spot that’s easy to glance at without breaking eye contact with the camera. This could mean sticking them to the side of your monitor or having them open on your computer.
Conclusion
While video interviews may seem daunting, they present an excellent opportunity to showcase your professionalism and preparedness. By treating the interview with the seriousness it deserves and ensuring your technical setup is flawless, you can make a strong impression. Remember, your goal is to make the interviewer’s experience as positive as possible. A smooth, well-executed video interview can significantly boost your chances and set you apart from other candidates.
At Levitate Recruitment, we’ve seen firsthand how a well-prepared candidate can turn a video interview into a powerful tool for advancing their career. Whether you’re an insolvency, restructuring, or audit professional looking to explore new horizons, mastering the video interview is a critical step on your path to success.
If you’re contemplating a career move and are open to discussing your options or want to get a feel of the market, I’m here for a straightforward, commitment-free chat. Send me an email at slowes@levitaterecruitment.com to arrange a call.
My views are based on my 17 years+ of recruiting for Accountancy Practice and Insolvency professionals.
For advice about your career options, speak to Scott Lowes at Levitate Recruitment, specialists in placing practice-trained accountants and insolvency professionals across the UK, and find the right role to suit your ambitions.
