We recently conducted some video-interview skills training for a client, in preparation for a video-interview for a graduate training programme in London.
Video interviews are becoming increasing common as recruiters and hirers begin to recognise their value and convenience - especially during the early stages of the selection process. They are especially useful where distance is a problem, for example where candidates are overseas.
Basically, video interviews are conducted via the candidate's own computer and webcam. Recruiters use specialised software into which any range of interview questions can be programmed, together with with variable timings for questions and answers. Each candidate is sent a link to the video interview with a specific time window during which they can log in and complete the video interview.
When the interview starts, the candidate will see the first question on the screen. The video recording commences and the candidate gives their response into the webcam. Response time permitted for each question may vary and will be limited by the software programming. Some questions might allow just 1 minute to answer, others 90 seconds or 2 minutes. The recruiter decides.
The process repeats for each question.
Video interviews are becoming increasing common as recruiters and hirers begin to recognise their value and convenience - especially during the early stages of the selection process. They are especially useful where distance is a problem, for example where candidates are overseas.
Basically, video interviews are conducted via the candidate's own computer and webcam. Recruiters use specialised software into which any range of interview questions can be programmed, together with with variable timings for questions and answers. Each candidate is sent a link to the video interview with a specific time window during which they can log in and complete the video interview.
When the interview starts, the candidate will see the first question on the screen. The video recording commences and the candidate gives their response into the webcam. Response time permitted for each question may vary and will be limited by the software programming. Some questions might allow just 1 minute to answer, others 90 seconds or 2 minutes. The recruiter decides.
The process repeats for each question.
Preparing for a Video Interview
Candidates should treat video interviews as they would any other formal interview, and should consider the following:
- The video interview should take place in private - away from interruptions from family, friends, pets or any other noise or disturbances.
- The background should be clear and tidy - plain walls are ideal. Cluttered bookshelves or posters in the background are not a good idea.
- The area around your computer should be tidy and clutter free - the camera will detect everything.
- The area should be well lit including the viewing space. You need to ensure that your face doesn't record as a silhouette, as often happens during Skype interviews.
- The webcam should be at the same height as your face, so you are not looking down at the camera and it should be close enough to make your face clearly visible - as it would be in a real face-to-face interview.
- You should sit directly in front of the camera and ensure that the upper part of your body is visible, as your "body language" is part of the interview assessment process and will convey emotion, confidence, enthusiasm and conviction.
- Modern computers and laptops generally have a good inbuilt webcam. If your computer is a little dated, you should possibly buy a higher quality webcam. They are inexpensive.
- You should dress as you would for a formal interview. This is not a Skype chat with your friends, it is a formal interview. Your recording will be watched by decision makers and your performance will be compared to that of other applicants. So it's important that you impress them both in your answers and in your appearance and demeanour.
We'll be writing more about video-interviews soon... how to handle the interview, and the types of questions you should be prepared for.
If you need help with your interview skills, we'd be happy to talk with you. Please get in touch.
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