Technology is critical to a successful video interview. Nothing is more frustrating than losing the connection mid-conversation or the microphone not working. Therefore, the technical check is an essential step in the preparation.

Device check: Make sure your device – whether computer , tablet or smartphone – works perfectly. It should have enough battery life for the duration of the interview or be connected to the mains. Check if the camera and microphone are working and if the audio quality is good.

Internet connection: Your internet connection should be stable and fast enough to ensure a smooth video interview. It is recommended to use a wired connection as it is usually more stable than wireless. If this is not possible, make sure you are close to your wireless router.

Software check: Install the video conferencing software required for the interview on your device and test it before the interview. Be it Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype or any other platform – make sure you know how to use it.

Test run: Make a test call to make sure everything is working. You can do this with a friend or family member. Check that the picture and sound are good and that the software is working correctly.

Interference-free environment: Close all unnecessary applications and browser windows on your device to ensure they are not interfering with the interview or slowing down your internet connection. Make sure all notifications are muted so you don’t get distracted.

A thorough technical check will help you avoid unnecessary technical difficulties during your video interview. This allows you to fully concentrate on the conversation and make a positive and professional impression.

While it’s tempting to have the conversation in bed or on the sofa, you should choose a more professional spot. Find a quiet, well-lit room, preferably with a neutral wall in the background. Make sure you aren’t disturbed by pets, roommates, or noisy neighbors.

• Choose a quiet room
  Find a quiet, undisturbed place in your apartment or house. It is important not to be distracted by background noise or movement during the call. This shows that you take the interview seriously and have respect for the interviewer and the process.

• Pay attention to the lighting
  Lighting can have a big impact on the quality of your video. A well-lit room will ensure you are seen clearly and look professional. Try to use natural light sources and avoid backlighting as this can cause you to appear dark on the screen.

• Use a neutral background
  A simple, neutral background doesn’t distract from you and keeps the conversation in focus. Avoid messy or overly decorated rooms that might distract the eye. If you don’t have a suitable space, you can use a wall or curtain as a background.

With the right preparation, your background can become an asset in your video interview and help create a positive, professional first impression.

While you could technically perform in sweatpants, you should still dress professionally. This shows respect for the interviewer and helps you engage in the conversation. You would be amazed how much your clothes can affect your attitude! Choose clothing that you would wear to an in-person interview. Make sure the colors match the camera well and are not too light or too dark. Patterns can sometimes look strange on screen, so plain color garments are often the best choice.

Also, pay attention to your overall image. A well-groomed appearance and a friendly aura can make a big difference. So don’t forget to comb your hair and maybe even put on some makeup.

The wonderful thing about human communication is that it goes far beyond what we express verbally. Our bodies and eyes play an important role in sending and receiving messages. But how does body language and eye contact affect a video interview? Let’s solve the mystery!

Remember that body language and eye contact are just as important in a video interview as they are in a face-to-face interview. By consciously using these elements, you can create a strong and positive presence, even through the screen.

While a video interview may be more convenient than an in-person interview, you should still take it just as seriously. Research the company, prepare answers to frequently asked questions, and think about questions you might ask the interviewer.

• Take notes and keep them handy during the conversation. You can also print out your CV and job description for reference.
• Try out different answers to possible questions and practice them in front of the camera. You could even do a mock interview with a friend to get feedback and feel more comfortable.
• Make sure that you allow enough time for preparation. You should be ready at least 15 minutes before the interview to fix technical issues and calm down.

Finally, a video interview can have its unpredictable and even humorous moments. The dog that barks, the cat that runs across the keyboard, or the roommate that accidentally walks into the picture – these things happen despite all the preparation. Take them with humor and don’t let them upset you. Such things are not ideal, but they also show your human side with these little faux pas to deal with.

Remember that everyone is in the same situation and most interviewers are sympathetic to small glitches. Laugh at it, apologize and move on. Ultimately, it could be a memorable moment that will leave you and the interview in a positive memory! With this in mind, we wish you every success for your next video job interview.