Virtual Interview Tips
More than 60% of surveyed hiring managers said they use web-based video interviews. A virtual interview is advantageous over a phone interview because the interviewer and job candidate can look at one another and see each others facial expressions and body language.
Having a successful video interview will require a little extra effort, compared to a phone or in-person interview. Not only will you need to prepare a clutter-free space in your home, but you’ll also need to test your tech by ensuring your internet connection is strong and you know how to navigate the interview program.
A decent webcam and microphone are necessary to provide a professional image and to ensure your interviewer doesn’t have any trouble seeing or hearing you properly.
Body language plays an integral part in a video interview, it’s imperative that you present the best body language possible during a video interview.
How you sit, stand, and gesture, all play a part in how your interviewer will evaluate you.
Here are some Body Language Tips for a video interview:
Maintain good eye contact - Looking directly at your interviewer is important during any interview, but especially so for a video/virtual interview.
Make it a point to look directly into the camera, rather than your computer screen. Looking at yourself on the screen will show that your eyes are looking elsewhere and may cause the interviewer to feel a disconnect. Just as you would look directly at the interviewer in an in-person interview, focus your attention on them during a video interview as well. You’ll establish a better connection.
Sit up straight - Having good posture during your interview shows that you’re alert, interested, and engaged. Slouching in your seat can look unprofessional and make it seem like you’re a little too casual and possibly not as interested in the position as you should be.
If you think that you might start to sink into your seat as the interview goes on, prop yourself up with a small pillow. It’ll keep you sitting straight and paying attention.
Lean in (but not too far) - Usually, when someone is saying something interesting, the natural response is to lean in closer. But if you’re doing a video interview, there’s only so far you can lean in before you’re just one big eyeball to your potential employer.
When you feel it’s natural to do so, you can lean in as the hiring manager is speaking. Leaning forward a few inches is often enough during a video interview to express your interest.
Keep gesturing to a minimum - Many people gesture as they speak to animate their stories or to get their point across. Problem is, most people don’t realize how often they use their hands until they see themselves recorded. During your video interview, you can gesture as you speak but to a certain extent. If you’re concerned that you might move your hands too much, you can always practice pre-interview to make sure your motions are kept to a minimum.
Don't cross your arms or legs - In an attempt to keep from gesturing wildly, you might be tempted to fold your arms in front of you. Unfortunately, you might come across as closed off by doing so. Since that’s not the image you want to present to a potential employer, keep your arms comfortably at your sides and your feet planted on the floor to make yourself look more open and engaged.
Nod when necessary - You don’t want to interrupt your interviewer with a boisterous, “That sounds amazing!” when they’re telling you about the company culture. That’s where the art of the nod comes in. You should nod as your interviewer is speaking; this conveys a connection between the two of you and shows that you’re listening to what they’re saying.
Smile genuinely - Of course, smiling is a great way to show friendliness and approachability. When people try to force a smile, though, it can come across as fake, which can be a big turn off for a potential employer. So be sure to smile during your job interview when it feels right. It’s been shown that smiling while speaking also makes you sound friendlier and can give you a more upbeat tone to your voice. And if your interviewer says something funny, smile, and laugh!
Being aware of your body language during a video interview can be the difference between presenting yourself as a confident or nervous candidate.
For Interview Success Formula members, Alan ran a training session on virtual interviews: How to Succeed in a Virtual Interview. It can be found in the Bonuses section.
Additionally, preparing for the Behavioral/Situational Questions will give you an added edge. (Member's of Interview Success Formula can visit Behavioral/Situational Questions found within the Build Section.)
Additional Resources: