The Video Interview

The Video Interview

A simple guide to preparing for a successful video job interview.

Why The Video Interview?

The Video Interview has become increasingly common in today’s job market.– Recruiters and Hiring Managers are frequently

working remotely.– With many candidates to interview, travel for face-

to-face interviews in cost-prohibitive for all but the final candidates.

– Telephone interviews can be cold and impersonal, while seeing a candidate, even on video, can reveal so much more than questions alone.

So How Do You Prepare?

Obviously, hardware is key. – Depending on the platform (Skype, FaceTime,

Vidyo, WebEx) that the interviewer is using, you may be able to use a Smartphone, table, or iPad.

– If possible, I recommend a Desktop PC, Laptop PC, or Notebook computer. Your image will be more stable than on a handheld device, and video and audio quality are likely to be better.

– A corded microphone / headset is key to reducing background noise and ensuring you can hear well.

Prepare Your Workspace


Don’t let the cluttered look concern you.– It is critical that you have quick, unintrusive access

to things like your resume, the job description, notes from prior interviews, and a notepad.

– Make sure you are comfortable with plenty of room to stretch out all of your interview materials. Ideally, you don’t want the interviewer to hear you shuffling through papers when responding to their questions.



Don’t get distracted.– The most frustrating thing for an interviewer is for

your eyes to be wandering all over the place instead of looking at them. It suggests that you’re trying to hide something.

– Look INTO the camera, not at your own image on the screen. Make sure what you need most is closest to the camera, so you won’t have to look away often.

– If you’ve asked to take notes, jot them quickly and try not to look away for long while doing so.



Take into consideration what the interviewer will see.– Good lighting is critical. A mix of natural and

incandescent is best. NO FLOURESCENT.– A straight view into the camera is important. Don’t

look up or down, and don’t sit close, but lean slightly into the camera.

– No on-screen clutter means a clean, bare wall behind you. No pictures, certificates, or awards on the wall, no knick-knacks, and no bookshelves.

Prepare Yourself

Prepare Yourself

See for yourself what the interviewer will see.– DRESS REHEARSAL. Use your device camera to

snap the same picture the interviewer will see.– Get a second opinion (spouse, etc.).– Adjust the lighting as needed.– Once you are happy with the image you will

present, don’t change a thing. Other than testing the natural lighting again just before the interviewer and adjusting if needed, leave everything else as it is.

Dress Rehearsal / Mic Check

Final Prep Notes

Ask yourself, “Would I hire this guy / gal?”.– If you aren’t impressed with what you see, don’t

expect the interviewer to be.– Neat, clean, professional. The interviewer will

form her first impression the moment your image comes on her screen. Be looking at the screen smiling while you wait for her to join.

– Eliminate all chance of background noise (children, parents, spouse, pets, etc.).

– Avoiding touching your face (especially your nose) while on camera.

You’re All Set

Never let them see you sweat.– Stay calm and cool.– Be in control of yourself.– Listen. Don’t interrupt.– It’s okay to laugh if the

interviewer laughs, but avoid nervous laughter.

– Don’t forget to DISCONNECT immediately after the interview.

Career

The Video Interview