By Jenifer Brown
With today’s fast-paced environment, more and more companies are utilizing Facetime, Google Duo, GoToMeeting, Skype or other platforms for video interviews! This is a cost-effective way to interview candidates. Several companies even use this as a means for their final step in the hiring process to determine whether or not to advance to the offer stage.
However, candidates can have a misconception about the process and view the video interview as being a casual interaction. This type of interview needs to be treated just as serious as an in-person interview. Candidates must prepare for it the same as they would for an in-person interview. Since the “Hiring Manager” can actually see you, the candidate’s appearance and body language is being weighed and measured along with the verbal communication. Plus, oftentimes, a video interview will include an entire panel of interviewers mirroring what often occurs for in-person interviews.
Here are 10 tips to assist candidates when preparing for a video Interview.
As in any interview, you need to do research on the company, organization or hospital to better align your responses to their mission, goals and culture.
Make sure to set up and test your video interview software prior to the interview. Make sure your computer and Internet connection meet any minimum requirements. You definitely do not want any technical issues from your end to hinder the success of the interview. NOTE: Candidates should use a computer. Do not use a smartphone for a video interview!
Prior to the interview, make sure all participants have the latest copy of your resume and list of professional references. If there is also going to be a technical aspect to the interview provide them with any OEM or third-party training certifications. If too numerous, then at least provide a training list. NOTE: Be sure to have a copy of all documents on hand during the interview!
Dress professionally – preferably in a suit (including shoes) since this is a business meeting.
Again, they can see you and are forming an impression! Doing this shows interest and enthusiasm about this opportunity and organization! Plus, this will put you in the right mental state as well as add confidence!
If you are not introduced to everyone on the Interview; take the initiative and introduce yourself. Ask each participant to introduce themselves or ask their names, title and function within organization.
You will then have a better understanding of who is asking what question and how to answer! For example, human resources professionals normally look for personality and behavioral traits to see if you would fit into the organization and its culture. Where a technical manager may focus on whether you have the skills to do the work.
Always keep your answers related to the question topic! Many times candidates go off on tangents that have nothing to do with the question or even the position. Be careful of “over talking” and not allowing the interviewers to make comments or ask additional questions!
Back up your responses with an example! About 90 percent of the candidates respond to a question without backing up their statements. Examples add credibility and help the interviewer visualize your capabilities. NOTE: Your examples should be directly related to the position for which you are applying.
Keep it positive! If you are asked why you left a company, always explain your departure in a positive manner. Negativity makes interviewers uncomfortable and concerned that you might be the same with them.
Never bring up money/benefits! Discussions about money or benefits should not take place until a verbal offer has been made. If the interviewer brings it up, they are probably screening you to see if your expectations are in line with the budget allocated for the position or if you are realistic about your experience or background. If that is the case, just respond that you are open to discussion but never give an actual figure until the offer stage!
At the end of an interview, they will usually ask if you have any questions. This is your chance to mention any related achievements or experience that might not have come up. After that is when you let them know your interest and then ask what the next step and timeframe will be. Lastly, thank all of them for their time and consideration and that you look forward to hearing back from them. Follow up with a thank you note to each of the participants!
