How To Prepare For a Video Interview

The way of the world today has transformed interviews, possibly forever. If you’ve been searching for a new job anytime recently, no doubt that you’ve noticed that interviews are being conducted virtually. Which, for obvious reasons, makes complete sense. The way that technology has advanced over the past years with internet speeds and more, it all just kind of came together at the perfect time.
 
It doesn’t matter if you’re dealing with recruiters in Houston or only just applying for a position at a new company. You’re going to have to do a video interview. Whether it’s on Microsoft Teams, Skype, Zoom, or through Google, you’ll be able to get the face-to-face aspect of the job search experience.
 
The thing about today’s job search experience is that you want to ensure you’re fully prepared for your own video interview. Don’t be one of those applicants that approach the whole video interview casually. This will pretty much guarantee you don’t get the job.
 
What are some things that you can do to prepare yourself for a video interview and stand out among the other applicants as the best candidate for the position?
 
Today, we want to discuss exactly how you can successfully prepare for your video interview with some tips that will ensure that you stand out and feel good about your next virtual interview.
 
1. Be Prepared
 
This sounds obvious, doesn’t it? But it’s essential to be sure that you’re choosing the right place in your home to do the video interview. Be sure that you can control the environment, which means don’t attempt to do your interview outside. The last thing you want is for your neighbor to turn on their lawnmower in the middle of you talking.
 
Some things to keep in mind:

Lighting:

• Be sure that the lighting is natural and consistent. You don’t want a shadow over your face the entire time. Natural light from a window is always the best choice as fluorescent lighting can be unflattering. However, you never want your light source is not coming from behind your chair. Face directly into your light source. This will give you a proper, evenly lit space.  

Camera:

• Make sure your camera is at eye level. If you end up needing to use your phone, use a stack of books to prop it up to your eye level. Don’t hold onto it and have the person conducting the interview thinking you’re in the middle of an earthquake the entire time.

 
Keep your space clean:

• Don’t have distractions in your way during the interview. You don’t want to miss a question during the interview because you checked to see who sent you a text message.

 
2. Practice
 
Take the time to practice your interview with a friend or family member before doing the actual virtual interview. If you’re working with recruiters in Houston, they’ll be able to do a run-through with you.
 
When you do the practice interview, be sure to check your lighting and camera levels. Also, run a test of your audio and video using your internet connection. Can the person hear and see you clearly and without skipping or interruptions?
 
Don’t forget to dress the same as you would if you were going into an office to do your interview. Dress well and prepare yourself even in this practice run.
 
3. Frame Your Shot Perfectly
 
This step is one of the most important, really. Doesn’t matter if you’re working with a staffing agency Houston or headhunters Houston; you want to be sure to frame your shot to emulate an in-person interview as closely as you can.
 
How?
 
Keep your shoulders and head visible the entire time. Look like you’re sitting up straight because you will be, but also be sure to do it. Leave some headroom above your head in the frame; figure about 10-20% as a fair amount to leave open. This will make you not look tiny while also giving you room for in interview seating adjustments.
 
Keep your background clean and straightforward. Best to use a solid-colored wall, so you’re not clashing with what you’re wearing. Or worse, distractions that take away from the focus being on you.
 
Use headphones to prevent weird noises or the inability to hear you clearly. If your headphones have a microphone, be sure it doesn’t rub up against your shirt as you talk. Don’t use over the ear headphones though, these can give the wrong impression.
 
Keep your body language straight and upright while being sure to smile and be present the entire time.
 
These are some really great ways to help ensure you have a successful virtual interview process. Keep them in mind when you’re preparing for your next interivew.