How to Transition to Video Interviewing

By Alexis Stiebe

With recent concerns about health and safety we know many of you are exploring new ways to interview job candidates. Today’s technology makes working from home and communicating over distance easier than ever. With the right preparation, a live, video interview can be just as effective as a traditional in-person interview.

If you’ve never communicated over a video conferencing platform before, you have a lot of options. Software like Zoom, Webex, and HireVue are just a few of your options. Ag 1 Source recruiters are trained in the use of HireVue to help our employers interview job candidates from anywhere. These platforms allow you to send an email invite with a special link that connects to the interview. Unlike Skype or Teams, the other party doesn’t need to own their own copy of the software to attend. The process should be simple to set up as long as everyone has a stable internet connection and a webcam

Of course, having the right tools is just the first step in conducting a successful video interview. The following tips will help both the employer and job seekers have a stellar video interview:

  • Make a connection.

    Most of these video platforms let you choose if you’d like your camera on or if you’d prefer to attend with audio-only. Be sure to turn your camera on. Body language and facial expressions are a large part of communication. Being able to put a face to a name and voice can make a big difference in the tone and success of an interview. An interviewer who cannot see the candidate may wonder what you are trying to hide. An interviewee who cannot see the employer may feel like you consider a video interview to be less of a priority. Having everyone on camera helps to build trust and a personal connection.

  • Test your tech.

    To conduct video interviews you will need to familiarize yourself with your webcam and your audio settings. Setting these up and testing them prior to the scheduled interview can help you avoid issues at the start of the interview. It often takes some experimentation to select the right sound output depending on if you want to use speakers or headphones and to make sure your microphone is transmitting your voice. Try connecting with a coworker or friend so they can give you feedback on sound and video quality.

  • Practice makes perfect.

    Speaking on camera can sometimes be more uncomfortable than meeting in person. Dealing with technical settings and talking to someone on a screen takes you out of your comfort zone. If you find that talking on camera stirs up your nerves, try practicing with someone you trust. This simple practice can help you feel more at ease and natural when the interview day arrives.

  • Dress for success.

    Yes, you may be in your home office, and no one can see you from the waist down, but that doesn’t give you an excuse to be unprofessional. Dress just as you would for a more traditional interview at the office. Not only will you impress the other person, what you wear can put you in the right mindset for an interview and give you confidence.

  • Keep your background simple and clutter-free.

    What is behind you when you sit down at your computer? It’s easy to forget during your day-to-day. If it is a blank wall, perfect. No further action is needed. If it is a cluttered bookshelf or a messy desk, take a few moments to tidy up. If there is a lamp or some other light source behind you, how does it affect the video? You may need to turn it off or move your lighting to a different part of the room.

  • Minimize distractions.

    Just like an in-person interview. You want to have your phone on silent. Put it away, far away. Limit any distractions that make noise. If you are working from home, you may have children and pets demanding your attention. Pets can be simple to put behind a closed door and older children can entertain themselves for a short time. If you have very young children that may cause an unavoidable interruption, just be upfront with the interviewer or interviewee that you may need to step away. Honesty and kindness are always good traits to have in an employer and employee.

Follow these tips and your next video interview will be a success! Ag 1 Source recruiters have been working remotely for many years and love the flexibility that video conference technology provides. We have the tools to help you through this transition. With HireVue, we have the ability to set up a live video interview for you. For a consultation on how to best use video interviews, and to test the platform out for yourself, contact us by clicking here.