13 Video Interview Tips That Work

Video communications are here to stay. COVID came in like a wrecking ball, and its impact on interview practices is here to stay. Virtual and video technology is now routine, and video job interviews are to be expected.

1. First - always request an interview be on video versus an old-fashioned phone screening. Even if the employer does not offer a video meeting, offer your availability and willingness to provide one. It doesn't matter if it is a brief introductory screening. In the job search process- every conversation counts! Nothing replaces meeting with someone face-to-face, even if it is assisted by technology.
2. Your background matters. Your background creates an unspoken story of who you are and how you live your life. In the job application process, bias can be sneaky. Make sure your background is appropriate- and by appropriate, I mean it should not resemble that an actual human being lives there. You are not interviewing from your kitchen table, bedroom, or with the kids' toys -even neatly piled- in the corner. Create an office-like, professional setting. Do not let your background allow someone to create an unspoken story about you, your life, or your ability to perform the job.
3. Virtual backgrounds can backfire. Sometimes it is hard for virtual technology to know where the background stops and the human starts, making you the invisible man or woman. Personal connection is critical during a video interview- and you can't do that well if you keep disappearing from the screen. Use a natural background or one that is only lightly blurred.
4. Get the lighting right. Daylight or natural light works best. Lighting should come from in front and above you, preferably at a 45-degree angle. When used alone, ceiling lights or side lamps can cast a shadow. Do not sit with your back to a window; it can turn you into a ghostly silhouette. If you can, position yourself so you are facing natural light. Shadows be gone!
5. Wear solid, non-patterned clothing. Prints and bold patterns bring distraction to the screen. When someone is focused on your face, you create a personal connection and rapport. Eliminate any distractions that take away from someone focusing on you, the person.
6. Expressions should come from your face, not your body. Body movements are amplified on video calls. Every motion in your chair, head scratch, or hand gesture - all act like uninvited guests to your interview. These movements pull away from you and your message. Sit still, smile, and look directly into the camera. You want the interviewer to remember you, not your body movements.
7. Your camera must be at eye level. Not the tip of your laptop or your phone - the CAMERA! Stack your laptop or phone on books if you have to, but get the camera up there. No one wants to talk to the top of your eyelids.
8. Eyeglasses come off (if they can). Eyeglasses often show the reflection of your computer screen. So instead of someone seeing your eyes, they see two illuminated boxes of reflected computer screen light- one on each eyeglass lens. Eye contact is the foundation for building personal connection and rapport. The interviewer will feel disconnected if someone cannot make eye contact with you,
9. Verbal fillers have nowhere to hide. Um, uh, yeah, verbal fillers are always problematic during an interview. On a video call, they are an amplified disruption. An "um" may feel unnoticeable in an everyday setting, but it is impossible to miss on a video call. Heads up: a verbal filler is almost always accompanied by a body gesture, bringing even more attention to it. When you command your language, you command your message.
10. Do not read from notes. If you think you are sly by having notes taped to the side of your laptop- guess again. When reading, your eyes track the words. There is a noticeable distinction between conversational eye contact and script-reading eye movement. In other words, everyone knows when you are reading from a script.
11. Turn unexpected interruptions into opportunities. Did the dog bark on the Zoom call during the interview? In the event of an unexpected disruption, acknowledge the obvious. When you ignore the interruption, you may indirectly send the message that the interview is not a priority. People relate to shared human experiences. Acknowledge the interruption, apologize for the disruption, and thank them for their understanding.
12. Get ALL of you dressed. Getting halfway dressed for a video interview is a gamble you do not want to take. Your appearance and preparation shape how someone evaluates you both professionally and personally. For the 100+ resumes you sent out, it's worth putting on a nice pair of pants.
13. Record and practice presenting on video. People are often unaware of the many presentation gaffes they make during a video interview. Record yourself when practicing for a job interview. Pay attention to your language delivery, body movements, eye contact, and overall engagement with the camera. Seeing yourself in action sharpens your awareness, allowing you to make corrections quickly.

Ultimately, a video interview provides a fantastic platform to connect with a potential employer. Use it to your advantage. You do not need on-camera training or fancy camera equipment to be successful. Clear out distractions, focus on your message, and practice your presentation skills. It only takes one great interview to earn a job offer, and it only takes one great offer to jumpstart a career.

I hope you get it!