Congratulations on landing that big interview for your dream job! But there’s a catch; it’s a video interview, and you’ve never had one before. What do you wear? Who do you say? Is it just like an in-person interview? Don’t panic—we’re here to help. In this guide we’re going to cover some do’s and don’ts of successful video interviews, so you can nail your interview and get started in your new and exciting career.
The Do’s Of Video Interviewing
While there aren’t necessarily hard rules of video interviewing, there are certain guidelines that are viewed as best practices, and will help you make a good impression. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that video interviewing is that much different from in-person interviews; they’re two halves of the same whole, and require the same care and attention.
Do Be On Time
Being punctual for anything, but especially for an interview, is a desirable trait in any potential hire. If you want to make a good professional impression, you must be on time. Period. In fact, it’s far better to be early for an interview, but not too early. Ten minutes early might be fine, but if you’re too early, that can also look bad. Try to aim for anywhere between 5-10 minutes early.
This helps show the potential employer that you’re both eager for the interview and punctual, and have good attention to detail. These are some of the basic qualities an employer will look for.
Do Find A Quiet Room To Interview In
There’s nothing more distracting on a conference call than background noise, either on the part of the interviewer or the potential hire. Background noise means anything that doesn’t belong in the interview call: dogs barking, children crying, cars outside the window, lawnmowers, or even that tapping of your pen on the desk.
It’s crucial that you find a quiet, private room to interview in. If you can’t do that, be sure to reschedule rather than subject your interviewer to endless background noise. And don’t forget to utilize that mute button! If you’re not talking, keep your mic muted. Video conferencing software is an excellent tool, but it’s only as effective as the person using it.
Do Have Questions For Your Potential Employer
Asking questions during and after your interview shows the potential employer that you’re not only interested in the details of the position, but that you’re also a quick thinker. Ask questions about your salary, hours, job responsibilities, company culture and policies, and whatever else you might need to know to better perform your job and assimilate into the company once you’re hired.
The Don’ts Of Video Interviews
Of course, for every do of video interviewing, there’s an important don’t to match. These things should never be done under any circumstances, or else you’re likely throwing out the interview, or simply giving the wrong impression to a potential employer.
Don’t Dress In Casual Clothes
COVID-19 has forced many of us out of work and into our homes for long periods of time. This might mean that you’ve become a little too comfortable, and forget that you’re still going to a job interview. Whether you’re in-person or on camera, it’s always important to dress the part. The way you dress can leave a lasting impression, be it good or bad. It all depends on you.
That doesn’t mean you have to wear a three-piece suit and your best watch; but it does mean that you should at the very least dress in business casual clothing.
Don’t Talk Over Your Interviewer
There’s nothing more disrespectful or off-putting than someone who continuously interrupts. If you’re being interviewed, the best practice is to keep your mic muted, answer the questions you’re asked, and save your own questions for the end.
Don’t Assume Anything
Assumptions only lead to further confusion, so it’s best to not assume anything about your employer, the position, or the interview itself. If you feel you did poorly, don’t assume your potential employer felt the same. Instead, follow-up as you would any other time, because you just don’t know. Don’t assume anything about the position or the company. Ask as many questions as you need to get a clear picture of who you’ll be working for and what you’ll be doing.
Conclusion
A video interview can be just as important as an in-person interview, and follows the same general etiquette. Be on time, ask questions, don’t interrupt, and be sure to dress the part. Showing up in your pajamas fresh out of bed is a good way to ensure you won’t get the job, but don’t assume anything! Follow-up, even if you think you did poorly (or you did interview in your pajamas). There’s not telling what impression you’ve made, so ask questions, follow-up, and be professional.
