How to get the most out of a virtual interview process
Top tips to be successful during your next virtual interview.
Information and advice for both the hiring manager and the candidate.
It has become the most over-used statement of 2020, but it goes without saying that we really are living in unprecedented times. Many organisations and candidates are now in a virtual world of work which requires video conferencing to become all the more prevalant, even for interviews.
Luckily, advancements in technology and telecommunications mean we are able to utilise these to enhance the hiring process as more employees are working remotely and video interviews becoming commonplace. The beauty of a virtual interview means hiring managers and job seekers can quickly have a first-round interview, saving time and travel costs, to learn more about what the other person has to offer and see if the fit is right for both parties.
It can, however, seem like a daunting process, so Westwood Harris Burns have devised a journal with a few tips to ensure you feel as prepared and confident with the process as possible, to help you ace your next face-to-face video interview.
Client tips for conducting a video interview
As much as you’re interviewing a candidate with the intent of making a hiring decision, this is the first impression the potential candidate has of your organisation, so it is important to ensure the call runs smoothly and the candidate leaves the video interview with the best possible impression of the set up.
1. Get the Proper Lighting in Place
Think about the lighting in the room where you want to have a video interview. Too much or too little light can make it difficult for the candidate to see you. Sitting with your back to a window or bright light source can negatively impact the quality of the video call by giving you a harsh silhouette effect. Whenever possible, sit facing the window or light source to ensure your face is well illuminated and clearly visible.
2. Use a Background That Isn’t Distracting
Candidates will be treated to the view of whatever is behind you, so it’s important you conduct the interview in a clean and professional environment to minimize distractions as much as possible. A conference room or private office with a solid wall or simple background is a great place to conduct the interview. Most virtual conferencing software, has a way to blur out the background which can make stop candidates getting distracted by what is behind you.
3. Find the Proper Camera Position
Because this is a face-to-face interview, it’s important the candidate can clearly see your entire face. Whenever possible, position the camera at eye level and close enough to you that your face and upper torso fills up the center part of the screen.
4. Send the Meeting Link Ahead of Time
Make sure the candidate clearly knows how to join the video conference call by sending a video meeting link and instructions before the interview time. Ensure the candidate is familiar with the software being used and that they have clear instructions on how to familiarise themselves with it, well in advance of the meeting.
Candidate Video Interview Tips for Job Seekers
The key to a successful video conference interview for a job seeker is to practice beforehand and to feel confident with the video interview process. In addition to the tips outlined for hiring managers above, you’ll want to complete the following steps before your interview.
1. Keep Your Environment Under Control
The last thing you want during your video conference interview is distracting background noise and interruptions. If you are interviewing from home, try to find a quiet, clean and well-lit room. If possible, have pets and family members in another room or out of the house to ensure they don’t interrupt the interview. If possible blur out the background behind you, it makes the call feel more professional and less like you are at home.
2. Be Confident
Your ultimate goal during the video interview is to show the interviewer how you can be an asset to their organisation. It’s important to be able to talk about your skills and experience with ease, alongside demonstrating a confident and personable approach.. Good posture, eye contact and a friendly smile give the impression that you are comfortable and confident with the video interview process.
3. Preparation is key
Before the video conference interview, thoroughly research the organisation and ensure you have read our journal https://www.harrisburns.com/journal-all/how-to-prepare-for-a-competency-based-interview, which will offer many pointers on how to adequately prepare for an interview. Many organisations across the housing, NHS and charity sectors are implementing competency-based interviews to evaluate potential candidates across all levels of the business. By asking you to talk through examples of where you demonstrated specific "competencies", employers can get an idea of what you would be able to add to the role and the organisation, as this is likely to be an integral part of the recruitment process, it’s critical to prepare well.
Etiquette for video interviews
Whether you’re the interviewer or the interviewee, it is important you have proper video conferencing etiquette. Here are a few best practices to ensure that your interview conference call is as effective and productive as possible.
1. Sit Up Straight
Use the same good posture you would use during an in-person interview. Good posture conveys confidence, so when you’re sitting up straight during a video call, it’s that much easier to show your future employer how poised and proficient you are.
2. Maintain Eye Contact
There’s nothing more important than eye contact when it comes to showing confidence and trustworthiness. It’s extremely noticeable if you’re staring down or off to the side of your screen when you talk. Maintain eye contact during the interview by looking directly at the screen.
3. Avoid Excess Body Movement
During the interview, avoid fidgeting with your pen, hair, phone or anything else that conveys nervousness and anxiety. Try to keep your body movements calm and relaxed. When speaking you can use your hands to gesture, but avoid being overly animated. When the other person is speaking, sit still and listen attentively with an occasional head nod to show you’re paying attention.
4. Personal Presentation
Conduct a virtual interview with the same level of professionalism and importance as you would a face-to-face interview. It’s important you look your best by being appropriately dressed and well-presented, remember this is the first impression that both parties will receive and it’s vital it is a good one.
Virtual conferencing has become a way of life for many employees and organisations, but if you need help with support your Westwood Harris Burns consultant will be able to guide seamlessly though this process.
Westwood Harris Burns are specialists in Executive Search and Senior Finance appointments within the Public Sector; with particular expertise in NHS, Housing and Charity Sectors. With over 60 years combined experience, we have extensive knowledge of the market, proven track records and established networks, allowing us to provide a wide range of services to both clients and candidates alike.
To learn more about how we can support you to either build your team or career, visit our Get In Touch page.