Virtual job interviews, usually conducted on Skype, Zoom or Microsoft Teams, have become commonplace in recent years. A video interview enables employers to get face-to-face with candidates without being in an office or paying for the candidate’s travel, saving time and money.
Here are 10 tips to get you through your virtual video interview with flying colors.
- Test the links. Before the scheduled meeting time, test the app or link you’ve received to make sure it works. Contact your recruiter/interviewer to resolve technical issues. This is important! A large percentage of video interviews fail because there is a problem connecting.
- Dress for success. Treat this like an in-person interview regarding dress. The minimum requirement for a video interview is a long-sleeved dress shirt with dark dress slacks for men and a modest blouse and dark skirt or pants for women. However, we always recommend a suit to increase your chance of success.
- Check the setting. Make sure that you are in a quiet, uncluttered room where there isn’t anything distracting or disorganized behind you. Make sure the room you’re in reflects on you as organized, conscientious and professional.
- Look at the camera. It’s tempting to watch yourself or your interviewer during a video interview session, but if you look at the camera, you will make eye contact with the interviewer, which is better.
- Close other programs. Pay special attention to closing any app that makes noise to avoid unnecessary interruptions.
- Use notes. One advantage of a video interview is the ability to use a cheat-sheet! Have notes about the company, the job description, and any questions you have, as well as a copy of your resume, in view for reference. Review your notes beforehand, so you only need to glance at them and so you can maintain eye contact.
- Take notes after the call. While your memory is fresh, jot down any new information you received and note any follow-up actions that were discussed, such as a request for more information or the date and time of your next interview. Make a note of anything that seemed important to the interviewer for future reference (skills, start-date, etc.).
- Ask about next steps. Does the interviewer feel you would make a good fit for the position? What are next steps, and when will a decision be made?
- Send a thank you note. Send a note to your interviewer immediately – an email is sufficient. Ask your BravoTECH recruiter for tips on composing a winning thank you note.
- Call your recruiter. Let them know how the interview went and what next steps were discussed.
Questions? Call your BravoTECH recruiter at (800) 762-7286, email info@bravotech.com or visit us at www.BravoTECH.com
