Confident Video Interviewing with Melissa Carvalho

With the effects COVID-19 has placed upon the way we work, and drastically increasing the demand for jobs, the hiring process has been radically altered. It’s very likely then, that your next interview will be a video interview. 

Whether you’re well practiced with years of face-to-face interviewing experience under your belt, or this is your first-time job hunting, video interviews don’t have to be a stressful experience. Yes, there are differences to overcome, but with some practice and adopting the right mindset, you will be able to put yourself in a position to shine as effortlessly as you would in a face-to-face interview.

To ensure you’re ready to get in front of the camera, follow career coach and LinkedIn optimization expert Melissa Carvalho’s video interviewing tips below.

Prep your space the night before.

Video interviews such as face-to-face interviews still involve preparation, but it’s just a little different. You should still treat this as a regular interview BUT you need to also consider prepping your interview space. Just like a face to face interview we want to limit distractions, so have a clean desk space with just your resume, a notebook and a pen next to your computer or laptop. In addition, look around your desk and take a look into your surroundings. Is your laptop/computer facing something that shouldn’t be seen, like your bed or sofa? If so consider a relocation for your space, your background should be a solid wall. 

Test out your camera and technology.

Seeing as it’s a virtual interview, technology will be involved. You will want to make sure that things are working properly. Most video interviews will be held by a third-party software company, such as Skype or Microsoft Teams. The hiring manager or recruiter will let you know which software that they are using, but you should test it out in advance. Sign up for the account if you don’t have one (use a professional screen name) and test out the camera feature to make sure everything is compatible and working. This will help avoid any last-minute tech issues and anxiety on the interview day! This is also a great point to sit down and test out how you and your surrounding area will look. Practice looking directly at the camera and not at yourself to ensure you are having that virtual eye-to-eye conversation!

The area needs to be a quiet place.

Being that this is at home, distractions can definitely occur. Nothing can be more distracting and unprofessional then your siblings screaming in the background or the sound of coffee brewing. If you are living with others, let them know you will be on an interview at such and such time so they can be aware and limit distractions and noise.

Your attire still matters.

I know how tempting it might be staying in your pj’s on your couch during your interview, but that won’t get you the offer. It will also ruin your mentality and performance. Dress as you would go to an in-person interview, in a suit or professional attire. Your brain might already be feeling too comfortable so you’ll want to trick your brain into understanding it is time to work, not be comfortable!

It’s not possible to cheat.

You may feel as though because you are home and not attending in person that you can literally look at all your interview notes and resume. It’s honestly not possible to do so. The interviewer will still be looking at your posture and behavior so they will know if you are not focused directly on the interview conversation.

Looking for more job application and interviewing guidance? Check out Melissa Carvalho Coaching.