How to prepare for a video interview

With the current global pandemic and social distancing that we all have become used to, you will find now that many companies will conduct interviews over Zoom, Teams, Skype, or other video platforms.

So how do you prepare for this, to ensure that you give yourself the best opportunity to ace that interview?

Here are some tips based on our experience in ICE Group.

Equipment

PC/Laptop/Tablet/Phone – You need to have a camera, microphone, and headsets. Make sure your microphone and audio are working perfectly. Test out with someone else in advance as you do not want interference or poor sound/video quality during your interview.

Have the app that the interviewer will be using (e.g ZoomTeams, etc) downloaded and tested prior to the interview.

Location

For the interview, you should be in a quiet area or room, where you will have no interruptions and a very good internet connection. If not using your phone for the interview turn it off or have it on silent. Make sure your family or housemates are aware that you will be doing an interview and that you will not be offered a cup of tea mid your winning pitch!

Preparation

The same as for a face-to-face interview have your preparation done, company background, know your CV, dates, etc. Have practiced answers to possible interview questions – Google is your friend.

On The Day

  • Dress professionally and appropriately, as if you were attending a face to face interview. This may help you get in the zone. First impressions count, you are not going to impress the interviewer if you look like you have just gotten out of bed or you are about to head out on the town, or worse again omitting to wear an item of clothing like one of our recent MEP’s!
  • Make sure what you are wearing, fits and you are comfortable. There is nothing worse than being distracted by an outfit that is too tight or large for you, which could completely distract you from focusing on the interview.
  • Do not have any food or drink visible. Ensure that your background is free of anything distracting or inappropriate and the lighting is good. Position yourself so that you are near to the screen.
  • As if attending a face to face interview log on about 10-15 minutes early. It is inexcusable to log on late. If it does happen that an event outside your control delays you, ensure you phone the company to make an apology.
  • Smile, make eye contact, maintain a good posture, and sit still.
  • Be conscious that there may be a lapse/time delay in the connection. Speak clearly to avoid having to repeat yourself.
  • Demonstrate enthusiasm for the job and company. Try to articulate any research you have done or your knowledge of the company and job into your answers or questions you may have.
  • Call on past successes and skills, stress your achievements.
  • Have some questions prepared, if given the opportunity.
  • At the end of the interview tell the interviewers that you are very interested/enthusiastic about the job and thank them for the opportunity to attend the interview.

Best of luck with your job search, from all the ICE Jobs Team!

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ICE Group

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