You’ve triumphed over the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and captured the attention of real humans with your standout resume and cover letter. Now, you’re on the coveted shortlist, poised for the pivotal moment: the job interview, one that will likely be a video interview. This digital encounter is more than a mere conversation; it’s your first opportunity to forge a human connection with decision-makers. The prospect might seem daunting, but equipped with the right strategies, you’ll not only ease your nerves but also impress your potential employer.
Bear in mind, that the guidance outlined here is tailored specifically for video where the interviewer appears as a two-dimensional person on a 13-inch screen. This format requires more prep to make sure you’re ready. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Conduct Thorough Research
Begin your prep long before you click “Join Meeting.” Investigate the interviewers’ online profiles, then send a personalized LinkedIn connection request with a positive tone: “Looking forward to our discussion on [date]. I’d be thrilled to connect with you professionally.” Scour their LinkedIn profile for commonalities—perhaps you share an alma mater or you both grew up in Seattle or you both follow Richard Branson.
Equally crucial is understanding the company. Follow their company page on LinkedIn, explore their website, and perform a Google search (click “news” in the options menu) to get the latest insights. Armed with this knowledge, you can pose informed questions, showing that you’re genuinely interested: “With the company’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2040, how is this vision being integrated into your marketing strategies?”
2. Test the Tech
Technical glitches can derail even the most poised presentation. Well ahead of the interview, verify that your computer, camera, and microphone are working perfectly. A stable internet connection is essential—opt for a wired network if possible. Prepare for any potential challenges by having a backup plan. Know how to quickly reconnect should the technology gods be off duty.
Record a test video. Assess the lighting and your positioning to ensure you’re seen in the best light—literally. Be mindful of your backdrop; it should bolster, not detract from, your personal brand. Choose an interview space free from noisy distractions and interruptions. A preemptive “Do Not Disturb” sign on your door can safeguard your session from the FedEx delivery person interrupting your performance.
3. Practice Your Pitch
Anticipate and practice answering common interview questions on camera and review the recording to observe your body language and check for words or phrases that make you stumble. Practice makes perfect and it’s also a stress reducer. Don’t overdo it, though. You don’t want it to sound rote.
4. Curate Compelling Stories
Anecdotes resonate. They convey experiences, showcase problem-solving skills, and highlight your personal brand. Use the CAR (Challenge, Action, Result) technique to structure your stories. Infuse them with humour and emotion to humanize your experiences and engage your interviewer. For instance, when asked about a professional weakness, craft a narrative that not only reveals the weakness but also your proactive steps to overcome it, and the positive outcomes.
Consider questions from the interviewer as opportunities to tell stories, rather than provide a simple answer. For example, in response to a question about remote work experience, recount a specific scenario that highlights your adaptability and communication skills within a virtual team. “I remember back when everything went virtual at the flip of a switch, I found myself challenged by the medium. So I started to watch how others were captivated in Zoom meetings and worked to emulate their techniques. For example, I…”
Golfing experts will tell you that the most important part of the swing is the setup, followed by the backswing. Interviewing is not too different. When you master the setup, you will ace the video interview.
Source: Forbes
Author: William Arruda