Video Interviews

We are living in age where more and more companies are now using video interviews at some stage in the hiring process.  Video interviews can be a great way to connect with a potential employer without having to travel. So if you’re asked to participate in a video interview, you’ll want to make sure you’re ready. Video interviews should be taken just as seriously as an in person interview. Here is what you need to know to prepare for a video interview:

• Familiarize yourself with how your webcam and camera work. Make sure that you troubleshoot any potential technical difficulties are dealt with beforehand. Make sure the camera is also on eye level that you are looking directly in the camera.
   
• Ensure that your surroundings are neat and not visually distracting. A plain wall, a screen, a bookshelf (with nothing odd on the shelves) is fine. Make sure the location is quiet, i.e; coffee shops with noisy backgrounds, screaming toddler, pets, etc.
   
• Dress appropriately. Even though you are not in person, you should still dress in      appropriate interview attire. Avoid wearing white (shirts, blouses or jackets as this will be too bright and distracting). Many softer, solid colors (blues or neutral tones) will work better.
   

  -Make sure the lighting does not cast a shadow on your face. You’re looking to      achieve nice even lighting across your face.

-Last but not least, practice, practice, and practice! Practice with a friend, a counselor, a spouse, a boyfriend or girlfriend, a parent.  Learning to interview in front of a camera can be daunting but like anything else practicing will help to ease any fears.