by Véronique Bélinge
Professional Development Coordinator
If you are looking for a job and have not yet been interviewed for a job via Zoom, Teams, Skype, or any kind of video platform, you may be part of a minority. You probably already know the basics, but we wanted to refresh your memory so that you can prepare.
1. Get your technology in working order
Make sure you have:
a solid internet connection;
fully charged batteries;
a working camera;
a functional microphone;
all the required apps (properly installed) as well as plugins;
the right camera angle;
a friend or family member to rehearse with!
2. Resolve logistic issues beforehand
Avoid:
clutter, embarrassing, or overly personal items in the background;
poor lighting;
background noise;
any source of physical discomfort;
clothes with jarring colours or distracting patterns;
social media, text or email alerts.
3. Rehearse until it becomes natural
Why not:
write down your talking points and your answers to anticipated questions (video interviews allow you to use notes so take advantage of it);
rehearse in the shower;
practice with a peer virtually;
book a mock interview on Teams with a Career Centre staff through Career Launch.
4. Prepare.
Write down your talking points in bullet-point form.
Create a list of questions for your interviewers and make sure to have space for their answers.
Have a cup of coffee or another beverage to help you keep from fidgeting and to make the interview slightly more convivial.
5. Embrace your mistakes.
Remember:
No one is perfect at video interviews except robots. And you are not a robot. You are a human.
Mistakes are not the end of the world; it is your ability to bounce back that matters.
If you blow an answer, pause, take a deep breath, acknowledge that you find yourself rambling, and simply ask to restart the answer.
Humility, humour, and humanity are also endearing qualities.
6. Show positivity
Try to maintain:
a friendly demeanour and a great smile;
your focus on the camera (and not on your notes);
a conversational tone (listening is key).
7. Express gratitude
Remember to:
send each of your interviewers a thank you note within 24 hours after the meeting; acknowledge the time of the person who coordinated the interview;
reiterate your interest for the position and remind your interviewers the value you bring to the team.
