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What should you not do in a video interview?

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Natalie Howard - 19 Oct, 2022

Head of CX

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Tips for Temps,

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What should you not do in a video interview?

A video interview is a great way to get your foot in the door. However, it can also be intimidating and stressful if you aren't prepared. Below are some tips on how to avoid these mistakes so that you come across as confident, professional and ready for the role:

Not confirm the tech

  • First, make sure the technology is working before you start. Test the equipment to make sure it's connected and turned on, and that you have good audio and video quality.
  • Next, check that your camera is in focus—if your image looks blurry or out of focus, you should ask for help from whoever is interviewing you so they can adjust the lens.
  • Finally, make sure the background behind you is clear and distraction free so people will be able to see only what's relevant to what's being discussed during your interview.

Not be prepared

Don't be unprepared for a video interview.

Preparing for a video interview is no different from preparing for an in-person interview, but it's important to remember that your body language and tone of voice are not being interpreted by the interviewer. Asking questions about the job description and requirements, reviewing the company website, researching the interviewer and their background, practising answers to common questions, and preparing a list of questions to ask them will help you feel more confident about your abilities during an interview.

Not dress appropriately

  • Don't wear clothes that are too casual or revealing. You want to be taken seriously, so dress appropriately for the job you're interviewing for and wear something that makes you feel confident.
  • Remember: You'll likely be sitting in front of a computer screen with your hands in view during an online video interview, so avoid outfits that show off tattoos or hand jewellery such as rings or bracelets (unless it's an accessory from your company's collection).

Not avoid distractions

  • Turn off your phone
  • Make sure you are in a quiet place with no distractions
  • Put on some headphones if you need to, or even better just sit in silence while they interview you.

If there's anything that can distract an interviewer during an interview, it's food and drink—you wouldn't want them to see your dinner all over their screen when they're talking about what kind of candidate you are!

Don't forget to smile and keep your energy up.

  • Smile.

Smiling is one of the first things that comes to mind when you think about what to do in an interview. It’s important to smile and maintain a positive attitude during the video interview, especially if you are interacting with someone in person. If you don't have an audience around you, there is nothing wrong with smiling at the camera (as long as it doesn't look too forced).

  • Keep eye contact.

Looking directly into the camera lens will make it easier for your interviewer to connect with you because they can see how engaged and interested you are in what they have to say. It also shows them that this isn't just another job interview—it's something special where both parties want to work together toward a common goal. The more natural this connection feels when talking about why working together would be beneficial, then the better chance there may be for getting hired!

There are many mistakes that you can make in a video interview.

There are many mistakes that you can make in a video interview, but the following should not be one of them.

  • Don't forget to smile and keep your energy up. It's important to let your interviewer know that you're excited about the position and excited about the company.
  • Don't forget to dress appropriately. You don't have to wear a suit, but you do need to look professional!
  • Don't forget to confirm the technology before doing anything else during your interview – especially if it's being held through Google Hangouts or Skype! If there is going to be any sort of trouble with this aspect of things, it will usually occur near the beginning of an upcoming meeting so make sure everything works before proceeding further into an interview with someone who will eventually determine whether or not they want you on their team!

Conclusion

Video interviews are a great way to connect with potential employees in a more personal way than traditional phone or in-person interviews. However, they require careful preparation and attention to detail.

If you can avoid these mistakes, you’ll have a much better chance of success!

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