In the current era, where more and more people work from home and social contacts are limited, it is becoming increasingly common in the application process for a first interview to take place in the form of a video interview. For many applicants, this form of interview is new.
Two different types of video interviews can be distinguished.
- The classic video interview
Normally, video interviews take place at an early stage in the application process and are used for pre-selection. The majority of platforms used for video interviews are Skype, Zoom or Microsoft Teams are used, which transmit both image and sound. Often the video interview is used by companies that have a large number of applications for a vacant position. Often this type of interview is also used when there is a large physical distance between the company and the candidate.
- Time-shifted video interview
In this type of interview, you do not have a direct interlocutor and there is no immediate exchange. You conduct the interview yourself, so to speak. Here, you do not have a fixed time when the interview takes place, but only a time period by when you have to conduct the interview. Questions are displayed on the monitor and you are given a short preparation time (normally about 2 minutes) to think of an answer. This is followed by the video recording in which you give your answer. Here, too, there is usually a limited time window, but you can also end the recording before the time is up. The recruiter can then watch the answers with a time delay and compare the answers with those of other candidates.
The preparation
You should take the preparation just as seriously as for a face-to-face interview. It doesn't matter whether you have a direct conversation, a normal or time-delayed video interview, because you have to be convincing with your appearance and answers, regardless of the communication medium.
Basically, the same rules for preparation apply as before any other job interview. Do research on the company, practice self-presentation, know your strengths and weaknesses, etc. (see blog post: Preparing for the job interview).
Technical problems during the call are very annoying. Check the technology in advance to prevent the webcam from failing, the microphone from not working, or an important program from missing. To be on the safe side, have a replacement ready in case a technical problem does occur. In addition, check in advance how you are captured by the camera, whether you can be seen clearly enough and whether the camera is as straight as possible in front of you.
Ensure silence and prevent any kind of disturbance or interruption. Background noise, heckling, family members or roommates walking through the picture in the background do not look very professional. Keep in mind that the background should be as neutral as possible. Everything that can be seen and heard in the video interview influences the impression the recruiter receives.
If programs like Skype or Zoom are used, you should check your profile in advance. Check that you have chosen an appropriate name, ideally your first and last name, also your profile picture and the description you have made about yourself should be professional and leave a good impression.
Our tips for a successful video intervieww
- Plan enough time
To avoid getting stressed out, we recommend getting ready for the video interview 15 to 20 minutes before it starts. This gives you the opportunity to test the technology one last time and to adjust the camera's framing correctly. Of course, this is not important for a time-delayed video interview. - The dress code is also important here
The outfit that fits for a face-to-face interview at the company is also suitable for the video interview. You want to radiate professionalism and competence, even if you are sitting in your living room and not in a conference room. Striking patterns are rather unsuitable. With many cameras, such clothing leads to distortions or blurred images. - Pay attention to body language
Your body language and posture during the video interview are also very important. Hunched shoulders, hunched back, lowered gaze or nervously waving your hands around should be avoided. - Keep eye contact
In a face-to-face interview, it's easy to make eye contact with the recruiter. In a video interview, however, it can quickly happen that you look at the screen instead of the camera. To maintain eye contact, you must look directly into the camera during the video interview. Otherwise, it will look to your interviewer as if you are looking past them. - Stay calm
A certain degree of nervousness is completely normal. However, try not to let this show too much. Nervousness causes many people's voices to change. The pitch of the voice becomes higher and the speed of speech faster. Try to control your voice during the video interview. Make sure you speak a little more slowly and, above all, clearly.
