As governments encourage their citizens to stay at home and self-isolate, organisations are adapting to what is for now, the new normal. Recruitment processes are still going ahead, but now in a virtual capacity. If you’re unsure about video interviewing, read on to find out how to perfect your video interviewing skills.
The different types of video interviews
There are a couple of different formats your video interview could be in: live and recorded. Your consultant or interviewer will let you know in advance about the type of video interview.
A live interview runs like an in-person, face-to-face interview would. You’ll have an interviewer, potentially a hiring manager, who will ask you questions which you will have the opportunity to answer. This runs as a normal interview would and will last between 30 minutes to an hour. If you have more than one interviewer, the likelihood is that you will be in a three- or four-way video call. Like with an in-person interview, your interviewer will let you know the structure of the interview ahead of time.
A recorded interview is structured differently. You will be shown a question and will be given anywhere between 30 seconds to 2 minutes to read the question and formulate an answer. You'll then have a limited time to answer the question, which is typically around two minutes. With some recorded interviews, you’ll get the opportunity to record a practice answer and watch it back. Although this may seem bizarre, it will allow you to review your answer. In this sense, you’re given a second chance at answering questions; an unexpected advantage of recorded video interviews. With recorded interviews, you will be given a certain time frame to complete it in. This is beneficial as you can complete the interview when it suits you. It may feel unnatural to record yourself, so practice by videoing yourself answering generic interview questions on your phone. It may feel even more uncomfortable watching these videos back, but they will give a good idea on what you do well on and how you can improve.
Set up the technical parts
Ensure that your microphone works, that you’re not muted and that your camera settings are on. Make sure that you have access to the internet, and that it’s a stable connection, as you don’t want your interview to continuously cut out. Prior to your interview, make sure your device is fully charged and ready to go. Not everyone will have access to a laptop, but most video interviewing software are supported by smart phones. Don’t be afraid to ask your consultant or interviewer ahead of the interview if you’re not sure of the more technical parts or if you are struggling to set up. They will then be able to advise you.
