The following is a post from one of Sterling’s guest bloggers, Jackie Edwards:
Apple, Facebook, Google, and Dropbox have one thing in common that may interest you if you are currently searching for a job. They all conduct video interviews, saving candidates (and the respective companies) the time and money involved in traveling for face-to-face interviews. It’s not just the big companies that are taking a shortcut to finding the best candidates for top jobs. Research by software consultancy group Software Advice has found that over 60% of hiring managers and recruiters are relying on remote interviews, so it is vital to ensure you have the technology, look, and background you need to shine at your next video interview.
Video Interview Tip #1: Choosing the Right Technology
You have just a few minutes to capture the eye of your recruiter so make sure that technology is on your side. You should have fast fiber broadband and a quality camera and you will need to practice recorded interviews beforehand, to check for your positioning, sound, and quality of image. Lighting is also key. A simple tungsten light with a reflector will boost light efficiency, while a white reflection surface will stop shadows from interfering with clarity of image. You can also use affordable diffusion material to cast your face in a softer light. If noise is a worry, a sound blanket placed on a window will add insulation, thereby boosting audio quality. For sound, you can either use a headset or a lavalier microphone, which you can simply pin onto your jacket or top.
Video Interview Tip #2: Appearances Matter
As noted in a 2011 study undertaken at the University of Western Ontario, first impressions are persistent. People make decisions quickly about others and this impression isn’t changed by subsequent changes or behavior, which are usually tied to one particular context. Research by The Graduate Recruitment Bureau, meanwhile, shows that it takes just seven seconds to form a first impression. Therefore, you need to get your look just right. Most fashion stylists advise women and men to plan their look for an interview thoroughly. Standard wear is a suit for both sexes but candidates should also go online and check out the corporate culture and style of workers at their target company. If you are applying for a job as a designer, for instance, showing your flair – perhaps through colorful glasses or an accessory or two – is key. For a job in finance or business, on the other hand, a serious dark blue or grey suit is ideal.
Video Interview Tip #3: What’s in the Background?
As mentioned above, recording yourself answering questions about key competencies and skills for a few minutes will help you identify potential problems. One of these may be your background. Position yourself in front of a clear wall, perhaps sitting behind a small desk. A simple monochromatic background a light neutral color is ideal. Be vigilant that there are no details in sight that could interfere with your professional image. When watching your video, check for body language as well. Are your arms open as a sign of trust? Are you looking straight into the camera and smiling at key moments? Is there anything that you can change – including fidgeting with your hands, spending too much time looking downwards, or slouching?
If you are getting ready for a video interview, ask a mentor to ask you competency based questions – especially challenging ones – while you record yourself. Afterwards, look back at what you have recorded and try to identify answers, body language, or technical issues that need improvement. The more secure you are on the actual day of the interview, the more likely you are to be relaxed enough to show recruiters who you really are, and how much of an asset you can be to their company.