Tips for a successful video interview

Companies conduct various types of job interviews. One that has become popular is the video interview. Companies use it because it is more efficient, safer & less costly than bringing in candidates for in person interviews for the initial screening. The video interview can take the form of a candidate speaking with a company representative live or just answering and recording those answers to predetermined questions. Below are some tips to doing a successful video interview:

Test everything in advance – have a relative or friend do a video test with you prior to the actual interview. This includes: adjusting the camera to the optimal height, testing to have proper lighting, making sure the background is not too busy and distractive.

Look at the camera not the monitor - it is very important to look at the camera not the monitor to ensure that you have good eye contact with the live interviewer or when they view the taped interview.

Eye contact – glancing down periodically to look at your notes is fine as long as you do not do it too often.

Avoid distractions – use a room where there are no interruptions from family members, pets or telephones ringing.

Dress to impress – you should wear formal attire as though you are at an in person interview. Even though the interviewer may only see the top half of your body it’s better to also have the bottom half formal in case you need to stand up and also in order to feel like being part of a formal process.