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The Coronavirus is not only changing our daily lives, it’s also compelling businesses to embrace new ways of working. One immediate difference we have already seen is all interviews moving from face-to-face to video. However, whilst video interviewing isn’t new, it’s still not something that a lot of people encounter on a regular basis. To help, we have put together our essential video interview tips for both employers and candidates to keep in mind.

General Video Interviewing Tips

There are several universal video interview best practices that apply to both interviewees and employers. These obvious but often forgotten tips cover all the basics you need to remember when setting up for a video interview.

Doing these checks ahead of time allows you to avoid any hiccups you may encounter and ensure everything is working before the interview begins.

Tips for Employers

As an employer, it is likely you are already familiar with video interviewing. Whilst the following tips may seem self-evident, we still see many of our clients forget them, so we are covering all bases to ensure you’re able to make the most of video interviews.

1. Make sure your video interviews are consistent

Prepare a list of standard questions to ask (just as you would for an in-person interview) so that you’re able to accurately compare candidates.

2. Check if this is the candidate’s first live video interview

Whilst online interviewing is becoming commonplace in the industry, this might be the first time for your particular candidate/s. If it is, you can allay any worries by briefly describing the process and giving them an idea of what to expect. This not only ensures a positive candidate experience but gives them the greatest chance of showcasing their best selves in the interview. 

3. Consider your tech

Although Skype was once the most commonly used software, there are many other suitable options you could use, including Facetime, Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams and Zoom. Some can even be merged into your existing office systems. If you have the time, it might be worth investigating what is available and best suited to your organisation. 

4. Do a pre-recorded ‘tester’

Once you have filmed your pre-recorded interview, do a practise run. This will assist you in locating any information gaps, missing steps or repeated processes, ensuring a smoother candidate experience. 

Tips for Jobseekers

Just as ‘ahead of the curve’ employers will take the time to really understand video interviews, candidates should too.

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We advise candidates to dress as they would for an in-person interview, whilst also considering colour choice (darker or block colours often work better, as lighter tones can make you look washed out and busy patterns can be distracting)

5. Do a few practise runs

Try recording yourself performing a mock interview to practise your eye contact, pick up on any unconscious habits you may have and adjust behaviours that may be perceived as over-the-top on camera, such as excessive hand gestures.

6. Consider video delays when conversing

After replying to a question and when the interviewer has finished speaking, consciously pause to allow for any video delays and ensure you are able to communicate clearly.