Video Interview: Tips and Tricks

The year is 2021, and we'd like to first congratulate you on surviving the decade that was 2020 --- I'm sure we're all glad it's finally behind us. It's the first week of January, which usually means starting on some New Year's resolutions, or perhaps their more forgiving cousin, intentions. Perhaps your journey this year begins with finding a new job---a common change for many of us during this time. The process of job searching and hiring, however, looks a little different than the last time around, due to Covid-19 protocols and social distancing. It's very likely your next interview will be conducted over a virtual call, so we're here to help with helpful tips on how to prepare for video interviews and get you one step closer to that dream job.

1. Make sure your technology works and is charged

This might seem obvious but it is very important to make sure your computer or device you're using for the video call will work and last the entire call. Different places use different video calling apps/ software --- you can ask ahead of time what platform the call will be held over and be sure to download and test to ensure all systems are go!

2. Set up your interview location --- and remove distractions

Make sure you set yourself up in a quiet area free of distractions and clutter. Be sure to let any roommates or family members know ahead of time you're not available for the duration of the interview but leaving a note on the door always helps too (so do locks). De-clutter the area behind you, as this can be distracting for someone on the other end. Another thing to do is set your devices to Do Not Disturb mode. This way you won't get any email notifications, social media alerts, phone calls, etc.

3. Check body language and eye contact

In-person interviews are a little easier to check in on your body language and to make eye contact, but this is just as important to do virtually. Make sure your eyes stay locked to the screen so they don't start wandering and maintain the same posture you would if you were in the same room as the person.

4. Dress for success

Dress as you would for an in-person interview, from head to toe. You don't want to be the next internet sensation by forgetting to put pants on for an important interview! You want to project your professionalism so wear your best business attire and make sure your shirt isn't wrinkled. As for colour, wear something that stands out and won't make you blend into your background.

5. Be prepared!

Like any interview, whether in person or virtually, you should show up a few minutes early and always come prepared to answer questions as well as ask them. It's always a good idea to practice with someone the night before to make sure you can hit on any points you want to make.

6. Thank the interviewer and follow up

Thanking the interviewer for their time and expressing your appreciation is how any interview should end. Just because this interview was over video, you should still promptly follow up between 24-48 hours. This gives you another chance to thank the person interviewing you and to see if they have any further questions you can answer.So there you have it, six tips for setting up and standing out in a virtual interview. As the way we compete for work is rapidly changing, be sure you're staying ahead of the curve. Always include a phone number on your resume --- lucky for you, TextNow has you covered. Download the app and get a free phone number to start the year off right with the search for your dream job.