Quick guide to video interviews
Recruiting organisations are increasingly using video interviews recorded remotely, in their selection procedure. For them it makes economic sense not to pay travel expenses to a high number of candidates, especially at the early stages of the recruitment process. It is also good for candidates as it means they don’t have to head off to various locations whilst trying to concentrate on attending lectures and their studies.
However this type of interview can be a strange experience, especially the first time you make an attempt at it and does require some thinking and preparation in advance.
So sharing advice we have gleaned from recent recruiters here are some top tips.
Read all the material sent to you and think about what they might be looking for. They will often give a list of skills in the job description so make sure you can talk about these and develop further thoughts and evidence from the original application you made. Is it a strength based interview or a competency based one? Check out the different types of interviews on our website.
Film yourself in advance, do you tend to use any clichéd phrases such as ‘you know’ without realising it? Try and cut these out.
Can your voice be heard and are you taking at a natural pace that can be understood? Many people tend to rush their words when nervous so try and make an effort to slow down. No-one will ask you to slow down in this type of interview so you need to make a conscious effort to do this if you know you talk too quickly.
Employers are likely to ask you about your recent education and experiences but could then ask other questions, perhaps getting you to comment and make decisions using a scenario or a case study. Again be ready to answer these more ‘on the spot’ questions.
However tempting don’t read anything from a script, an employer can see when you are continually looking down and reading from notes. Instead look at the camera and imagine you are talking to someone.
You are likely to be given a set amount of time to answer a question, a sound or a visual countdown on the screen may then be given to warn you when the time is coming to an end.
Don’t get over concerned about this. Present your answer clearly and comprehensively and if you do get cut off don’t feel disconcerted but get ready for the next question.
Employers will can gather evidence from what you have said already and will often ignore a blunt ending. It probably happens to other candidates so don’t get worried about it.
Make an effort with your appearance and look smart for the camera. Filming the interview in messy surroundings will not mean a rejection but doesn’t look professional so always try and set up the interview in a neat and tidy area.
Warn others in your house that you will be doing this so they don’t disturb you or better still do it when you know the house will be empty. Interestingly one recruiter said that the optimum day for these interviews being recorded and sent to them is Christmas Day. Maybe people choose to do it when everyone has nodded off after lunch perhaps!
So think carefully and be ready for the How, What, When and Where questions and also ‘What would you do if and Tell me about?
Follow all the instructions for submission at the end of the interview and then wait for them to get in touch with you.
Pamela Coppola • 26/11/2018