What is a video interview?
Video interviewing is becoming increasingly popular as a way of screening suitable applicants.
There are two types of video interviews:
- Live Interviews - you talk to the interviewer from your video device, e.g. Skype
- Pre-recorded/Asychronous Interviews - you record answers to pre-selected/pre-recorded interview questions. Each answer must be given in a set amount of time. You may get more than one attempt before submitting.
Top Tips
An important part of a successful video interview is knowing how to make the technology work for you. Follow these tips from Business Insider Australia (Sumser, 2012) for using video interviewing to your advantage.
- Position the camera at the same height as the top of your head - Gives you the most attractive camera angle and helps you maintain good posture.
- Look directly into the camera - Not at the screen. A lack of eye contact can be an indicator of untrustworthiness.
- Watch your posture - When you are in the interview, act like you are in the interviewer's office, not your bedroom.
- Don't wave your hands around - Hand gestures are great for live interactions, but on video they distract from the message you want to put across.
- Manage the background - The interviewer isn't interested in the picture on your wall or books on the shelf. Sit in front of a simple background and have your head and shoulders in the shot (none of the table!).
- Wear solid colours and stay away from white - White can give off a glare. Patterns can cause the optical illusion of movement. You want the interviewer focused on you, not your clothes.
- Dress to impress - Dress as if you were going into the office for an interview. You don't want the camera to fall and expose your pajamas!
