The hottest trend in interviewing right now (and with good reason) is a video interview. The pandemic has certainly changed the game when it comes to finding a job.
It has been said that 60% of organizations plan to continue using video interviews even after the Coronavirus pandemic ends. It is absolutely the way of the future and saves both the job seeker and the company lots of time, money, and effort.
I switched jobs twice during this pandemic and both times I never even went into an office for an interview. Now, in my recruiting job, part of my role is reviewing one-way video interviews.
There are a lot of factors that go into a video interview. There are also multiple different ways you can complete them that you might not be aware of.
My goal in this article is to explain the different types of video interviews, provide you with some excellent video interview tips, and let you in on a few secrets to acing an interview.
Why are companies using video interviews?
Using video for interview purposes is super common nowadays. The main reason is obvious – it’s been safer in 2020 & 2021 so far.
Once companies started getting used to using video for interview questions, it was just hard to ignore the fact that job seekers were able to get through the interview process faster, recruiters could review more applications, and hiring managers were still getting what they needed. They were able to talk to and see a candidate during an interview – especially with all the really cool and easy-to-use video interview software that is available now.
Going through video interviews myself made me really appreciate the modern practice.
I’m a mom of 3 small kids who has been home with me on and off the last 2 years since this all started. It is HARD for me to get all dressed up, drive all the way to an interview for a job I may or may not get, spend the time there interviewing in person and then drive all the way back home.
Interviewing in person is at least a half a day event.
For one, video interview prep takes significantly less time. Then the travel time is eliminated as well. Interviews are usually shorter over video than in person too.
It saved me time, money, and lots of effort the same way it saves that for the company.
What are the different types of video interviews?
There are two main types of video interviews – one-way video interviews and live video interviews with a hiring manager.
As a recruiter now, I review one-way video interviews and conduct live video interviews with job seekers.
A one-way video interview is typically done with video interview software like hirevue or some other tool.
When you go through this type of interview, you will usually receive a link to a view and answer pre-set interview questions based on whatever job you applied to.
You may answer a few multiple-choice/free text type questions and then go on video for interview questions. You’ll either see the question typed out for you to read or you’ll watch a quick recording of a recruiter asking you the question.
From there, you typically get one chance to record your answer for that question within a preset amount of time (usually between 1-2 minutes).
A live video interview is when you go into a video meeting typically with zoom, Microsoft teams, or something similar. You’ll get to talk to the recruiter or hiring manager and interact with them like you would during an in-person interview.
If you’re unsure how to do a video interview, just think of all the times you’ve been in a virtual meeting with your coworkers or even face timed with a friend.
It’s an easy and convenient way to get to know one another in a low-pressure atmosphere since you’ll be in your own home or setting.
Live video interviews and one way interviews are both still real interviews though and should be taken just as seriously.
How does a recruiter evaluate a video interview?
After looking over the resume of someone who applies to one of my jobs, if I like them, I will send them a link to my video interview questions. From there, they typically have 3 days to complete it whenever they can, and I get notified once they are done.
When I see the video interview questions and answers come through, I’ll open up the link and take a look.
I will go question by question and document your answers.
I listen to your entire answer and watch how you conduct yourself on video. Don’t worry though – I take everything with a grain of salt as I know that people are super uncomfortable answering video interview questions.
It’s still very important to be professional and careful though. I know people are uncomfortable on video, but that doesn’t mean they get to put no effort into the interview at all.
The same goes for real-time video interviews. A little effort goes a long way with the recruiter or hiring manager.
My top 10 best video interview tips to be successful in 2022
1. Video Interview Outfit
Are you stressing out over your video interview attire?
I bet you’re overthinking it!
Just like an in-person interview, you should be in an appropriate outfit for what the job is going to be. Regardless, you should at a minimum be in a business casual outfit.
This means a nice, neutral and professional top. The bottom half of you usually won’t be seen unless you’re asked to move around or stand up or something during the interview.
You should still wear a complete outfit though just in case.
Plus, it usually makes you feel more confident and on top of your game for the interview which is important.
If you’re completing a one way video interview where you can start and stop the interview as you please – make sure you stick to a professional outfit throughout. I’ve seen a lot of interviews where it starts out professional and then the job seekers take a break or feel comfortable and answer the last question or two in pajamas… it does happen.
2. Video Interview Lighting
Video interview lighting is super important!
I really hate when I go to watch an interview or do one life and I can barely see the person because it’s so dark. It could also be too bright too if the sun is rising in a window directly behind you and I can’t even see their face.
The entire point of a video interview is to see the person too. Not just hear them like I would in a phone interview.
I have seen a lot of people use ring lights or even just a light in facing them (not visible on camera) so that their face is appropriately lit. This makes a world of difference!
You don’t need to go out and buy a ring light or anything (here is a link if you do want one), but I would pay attention to where you sit.
Be careful though – if you wear glasses, sometimes I can see the reflection of the light in your glasses and that is all I will see and focus on the entire time.
3. Video Interview Location
The video interview location that you chose is also super important. You need to be aware of where you are, who is around you, and what distractions are there.
If you’re at work and can’t find the time to do the interview at home, I (and most recruiters) will never judge you for doing an interview in your car. This depends on the position you are applying for though. If you’re a high-level executive or interviewing for a remote job and can’t find a place to do a video interview in a room with a nice setup, it’s a red flag.
If you have to do an interview in your car, do not answer video interview questions while driving. You will instantly be turned down. It’s dangerous.
If you’re at home, try to position yourself in a quiet room with a neutral or boring background.
What you chose for your video interview background can say a lot about you.
I’ve seen lots of interviews with people’s messy kitchens and bedrooms (even bathrooms) behind them. It’s hard to focus on what you’re saying when it looks like a bomb went off behind you or there are people walking by non-stop.
Try to be in a quiet place and sit against a plain wall so the interviewer is forced to focus on you and what you’re saying.
4. Video Interview Preparation
In general, you should prepare just like you would for any other interview in terms of research and things. Make sure you know what position you are interviewing for and a bit about the company.
Video Interview prep in particular is a bit more involved.
You want to make sure that you have downloaded any software needed for the interview ahead of time. If you’re using one of the popular video interview platforms, you can probably download an app for your phone.
Make sure it’s downloaded and working ahead of time, so you aren’t late.
Make sure your internet connection is solid. If you have spotty service and typically lose calls or service, try going to the library or even a friend’s house. You could even sit in your car outside of a café with free Wi-Fi.
You also want to be sure to join the live video interview 10 minutes ahead of time in case there is a problem. I don’t wait around more than 10-15 minutes for a candidate if they are late for their video interview. Get ahead of any last-minute problems by being early!
It is also helpful to print out or have a digital copy of your resume on hand for you to refer to or for you to quickly send to an interviewer if requested. If you are working on your resume now and need help, this article with get you started on the right path.
5. How to answer video interview questions
I want to focus this tip on how to answer one way video interview questions.
If you want to read more about interview questions and answers, please read this article!
One-way video interview questions are timed. In addition, you usually only get one shot to answer it and answer it well.
Before the interview, write down some of your major accomplishments, responsibilities, and any impressive stats that you have about yourself and your work. Keep this list on hand to reference during the interview.
Once you start answering a timed question, stay calm. I’ve seen tons of people get nervous as the clock ticks down and then start to ramble.
Also – you don’t need to read the interview question aloud before you give your answer. We already know what question you’re answering, and it really just wastes the time that you do have to answer it.
Before the video starts, you typically have a few seconds to a minute to prepare. Think of what you want to say and how you want to say it.
Think of the situation you were in, the action you took, and the end result (how did you fix something or deal with something well).
You can easily answer a question well by sticking with the STAR method mentioned above (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
6. Inevitable Video Interview Technology Issues
As mentioned before, log on early to be sure everything is working smoothly before your interview starts.
We all know that technology fails us all the time.
I was in a video interview once and the interviewer’s camera froze, and they didn’t know it. I did an entire hour-long video interview pretending I could see the person and talking to them directly as if nothing was wrong.
There is nothing wrong with bringing it to the interviewer’s attention if you are having issues. Just keep in mind… if you are in a groove and things are going well, you don’t want to throw off your game if it’s something small.
If it’s really bad and you aren’t able to hear each other, the interviewer may just call you over the phone instead or even reschedule if needed.
7. Video Interview Practice
Practicing for a video interview is important! If you aren’t used to seeing yourself on camera, you don’t want the first time to be in an interview.
Write down some questions you think you may get asked and record yourself answering them.
You can even facetime with a friend and have them ask you so that you can get instant feedback.
If you are really nervous and want some professional help with interview practice, please reach out to me and I will gladly do a mock video interview with you! I offer plenty of job search and interview assistance services through my consulting business – Healthy Resumes.
8. Video Interview Hacks
Did you know there are a few ways to make you feel more comfortable during a video interview?
With most of the video interview software out there, you are able to make things a little more private or even look better on camera.
Try to play around with the settings and background options on the video platform.
For instance, I know Microsoft TEAMS and other platforms like Zoom will let you choose different backgrounds if you aren’t comfortable with the background you have in real life.
Please remember to be professional. I always recommend just blurring out your background. That stops the interviewer from seeing anything specific while still remaining professional.
Definitely keep in mind that everyone has their own likes, dislikes, views, and beliefs. For instance, if you love a certain sports team and decide to use their logo all over your digital background, you may be interviewed by someone who hates that team. You will be starting the interview off on a bad note.
You can also have your video interview software automatically adjust for low lighting and even improve your image by smoothing skin or brightening your face up. The key, again, is not to go overboard and to keep it professional.
9. How to Stand Out
If you want to stand out in a video interview, take it seriously. There are too many people that think it’s just a quick first step to a real interview.
Dress nicely, speak professionally, and stay calm. Practice a lot.
By preparing and treating your interview just like you would an in-person interview, you will already be ahead of the game.
Being thoughtful with every touchpoint during the video interview – like lighting, the background, your video interview outfit, and even your username – can make all the difference.
10. What to do afterwards
After the video interview is over, definitely send a quick email thanking the interviewer for their time if it’s a live interview. If you completed a one way video interview, you could email the recruiter who send you the link to thank them and let them know you completed the interview.
In addition, if you feel like you messed up a question or weren’t able to complete an answer, use the thank you email as a way to tie things up in a nice little bow.
Elaborate on what you liked about the interview process and why you are excited to join the organization or move forward in the interview process.
Stay calm and remember everyone is uncomfortable during video interviews
If you take away anything from this article, I want you to know that video interviews suck for everyone.
It’s super scary putting yourself out there and recording yourself answering questions without even seeing a person. And it’s scary to think about all the tech issues that could arise or if you’re going to do well.
Remaining calm and professional goes a long way! And remember – they usually can’t see your lower half. It’s perfectly acceptable to be secretly squeezing a stress ball the entire time!