10 Quick Video Call Interview Tips

The Covid-19 situation has turned the job market upside down and with that, interviews have gone online. As opposed to doing a traditional interview in person which has challenges of its own, video call interviews can be daunting as well. In addition to that, there are other rookie mistakes that you can avoid.

The right preparation can help you leave a remarkable impression on the hiring manager as well as the recruiter. Below are 10 quick video call interview tips to help you ace that next video interview.

1. Digital Handshake

What is a digital handshake one may ask? All that you do in the first 10 seconds of the interview comprises a digital handshake. In order to ensure you nail this aspect of the interview, focus on the place you are setting up as your interview station. Make sure it is clean and luminous.

The emphasis should be on you during the interview and not what's behind you. Your background should be plain and professional. A good practice can be to have a mock interview with your friend.

2. Technical Glitches

This is a basic point one should adhere to but at the same time highly important. Make sure you have high-speed internet connectivity at your place. If it helps, sit closer to your Wifi router and set up shop there.

Keep your laptop fully charged and close unwanted tabs on your browser. Technical glitches are a big turn-off and should be avoided at all costs.

3. Presentation

By presentation, we mean not just how you go about presenting your assignment but also yourself. One should dress for the interview. Dress formally, and professionally, and keep it plain and simple. Pick your outfit and clothes based on your background and surrounding. Avoid too much make-up, Jewelry, etc. that would attract unnecessary attention otherwise.

4. Body Language

Body language is an extremely important point when it comes to a video interview. Remember, you do not face to face with your interviewer, so you have to work extra hard to make an impact.

What would help is to lean slightly forward so as to give an impression that you are interested in the job and what the person at the other end is talking about. Verbal cues and verbal nods are important as well. Make necessary eye contact by looking into the camera. Keep hand gestures at a minimum to avoid distracting your recruiter.

5. Distractions

Disable notifications. The last thing you need is someone setting you off with multiple notifications ringing on your phone or work system. Login through a guest account so you are free of all potential distractions. Keep a backup system, phone, or laptop in case any unfortunate issue arises.

6. Video dress rehearsal

Make sure you are well equipped with the video platform the interview is going to take place on. Educate and run through all features. Screen share, mute, etc., so that in an untimely situation where the recruiter does ask you something, you know how to work your way around it. Prepare for all possible outcomes. Do a mock interview with a friend to access all features and to avoid any surprises during the interview.

7. Confidence and friendliness

Practice looking into the camera instead of looking at the front of the screen. Smile more during the interview. Try to keep the energy levels up and feed off what your recruiter is saying as well.

8. Practice, practice, practice

Preparation will help you stay confident as well as keep you on track if any curveballs are thrown at you. Almost everyone knows by now that there are standard questions in every interview that will most definitely be asked.

Questions such as, tell me about yourself, why you left your last job, what are your weaknesses, etc. Make it a point to rehearse these questions in advance to let your recruiter know that you mean business. Record your answers on camera so you know what you will look like and then make changes accordingly.

9. Know your resume

It's important to know your resume at the back of your hand. While walking through your work experience, highlight your career achievements and bring to notice any task or quality that might give you an edge during the interview.

While doing so, read the job description of the job you are applying for and try to cover key aspects of it. Also, be prepared to answer any question about breaks in education or work experience in a professional manner.

10. Finish well and close strong

You made all that effort but fumbled while closing the interview or while ending the meeting. Make sure your parting statements reinforce why you will be a good hire for the role. Don't be in a hurry to finish the interview. Pace yourself well.

When the recruiters ask, if you have any questions for us, always ask questions. Make sure you have thoroughly researched the company and ask genuine questions. Lastly, check with the recruiter, when is an appropriate time to follow up and by when can you expect a reply from them. The moment you are done with an interview, send thank you emails to express gratitude.

If you want to learn more about interview preparation, check out the Board Infinity's completely free Interview preparation course, which gives you 15 hours of power-packed material to help you get ready for your Placements (or change in career path). It will help you build the right knowledge, skills, and attitude for being a step ahead in the selection process and ensure that you are corporate ready!