20 Video interview tips to ace a job interview

Video interviews have become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as they allow for remote interviews and can be a convenient option for both the interviewer and the interviewee.

If you have a video interview coming up, it's important to be prepared and make a good impression.

Here are 20 tips to help you ace your next video job interview:

Test your equipment

Make sure your camera, microphone, and internet connection are all working properly before the interview. You don't want any technical issues to arise during the interview. You can use Cubo in planning your interviews.

Choose a professional backdrop

Your background should be free of distractions and clutter. A plain wall or bookshelf is a good option. Avoid sitting in front of a window as it can cause backlighting and make it hard to see your face.

Dress appropriately

Even though the interview is virtual, you should still dress as if you were meeting in person. This includes wearing professional attire and grooming yourself as you would for an in-person interview.

Find a quiet and well-lit space

Choose a location that is free of distractions and background noise. Make sure the lighting is good so that the interviewer can see you clearly.

Practice good body language

Pay attention to your body language during the interview.

Sit up straight, make eye contact with the camera, and use hand gestures to emphasize your points.

Use the mute button wisely

The mute button is your friend during a video interview. Use it to eliminate background noise, but remember to unmute yourself when you need to speak.

Be aware of your facial expressions

Your facial expressions are an important part of communication and can convey a lot of information to the interviewer. Make sure to smile and maintain a positive expression.

Have a copy of your resume and any other relevant materials

It's a good idea to have a copy of your resume and any other relevant materials in front of you during the interview. This will allow you to refer to them if needed.

Use the chat function

Many video conferencing platforms have a chat function that allows you to communicate with the interviewer in real time. Use this function to ask any questions you may have or to provide additional information.

Follow up after the interview

Just like with an in-person interview, it's important to follow up after a video interview. Thank the interviewer for their time and reiterate your interest in the position.

Make sure your surroundings are tidy

The interviewer may be able to see more of your surroundings on a video call than they would in an in-person interview. Make sure your workspace is clean and organized.

Use the virtual background feature

If you don't have a professional-looking backdrop, consider using the virtual background feature on your video conferencing platform. This allows you to choose a background image to display during the call.

Use props to your advantage

If you have a portfolio or any other materials that can help showcase your skills and experience, consider using them during the interview. This can be especially helpful if you're in a field where visual aids are important.

Take breaks to stretch

Video interviews can be draining, especially if they are longer than an in-person interview. Make sure to take breaks to stretch and move around to keep yourself energized.

Pay attention to your posture

Poor posture can make you look uninterested and can even cause physical discomfort. Make sure to sit up straight and maintain good posture throughout the interview.

Consider your lighting

Good lighting is crucial for a successful video interview. Make sure the room you're in is well-lit, but avoid sitting directly in front of a light source as it can cause shadows on your face.

Find a good camera angle

Make sure the camera is at a good angle so that the interviewer can see your face clearly. Avoid placing the camera too low or too high.

Use headphones

If you have the option, consider using headphones during the interview. This can help reduce background noise and improve the overall audio quality of the call.

Check your internet connection

A stable internet connection is essential for a smooth video interview.

Make sure to test your connection beforehand and consider using a wired connection instead of WiFi if possible.

Review the job posting and company website

As with any interview, it's important to review the job posting and company website to familiarize yourself with the position and company culture. This can help you tailor your responses and make a stronger impression.

Cubo has developed an easy-to-set-up virtual office where you can share a virtual space, set up personal meetings and interviews. You can set up a virtual meeting in seconds where attendees can accept the invite, turn on their webcam and enjoy an interactive environment.

By following these tips, you can confidently approach your next video job interview and increase your chances of landing the job. Good luck!