Applied for your dream job and been invited to a video interview? Congratulations! The video interview is one of the many tools employers use to get a better sense of who you are. Check out the following tips to ensure everything goes smoothly.
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Preparation is key
Prepare for a video interview the same way you would if you had been invited to a face-to-face interview. Read through all the information you get from the employer regarding the interview carefully and get your CV ready.
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"Check, Check, 1, 2, 3"
Technical issues during a video interview are annoying and make people nervous. That's why you should check your webcam and microphone and make sure you've got a good internet connection.
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Lights, Camera, Action!
Make sure it's quiet and, where possible, eliminate background noises, interruptions and street noise. Put yourself in the right light (the light source should be in front of you) and ensure you have a neutral background. After all, you don't want the interviewer being distracted by a picture in the background. The focus should be on you.
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Outfit and body language
Want to make a competent and professional impression? You can! Even if you're sitting at home at the kitchen counter and not in a meeting room. The clothes you would wear for a face-to-face interview also work for a video interview. Make sure you maintain an upright posture, keep your arms on the table and use appropriate gestures to emphasize what you're saying.
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Eye contact through the camera
Maintain eye contact with your interviewer as much as possible, especially when giving answers. To maintain eye contact, you need to be looking into the camera, not at the monitor. Don't read your answers out, speak freely and into the camera.
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Enunciation
When we're nervous, our voice often gets higher and we talk faster. Make sure you have clear and slow enunciation. Put a glass of water nearby. This will help if you get a dry mouth or if you need a moment to think.
I wish you the best of luck at your next digital interview. One final tip: Don't forget to smile.
