Preparing for a Video Interview

With technology expanding and companies cutting costs, you may find yourself asked to conduct an interview via an internet video chat site such as Skype. While a video interview will likely have the same questions and content as a traditional interview, there are a few things you can do to prepare yourself and your surroundings to make a great first impression on camera. Consider these tips from Time.com:

1. Set up the Background: Avoid all-white backgrounds that can make you look washed out on screen. Consider facing the webcam toward your desk and situate a plant to the side to create a warm and inviting backdrop. Also, make sure to clean the clutter off of your desk so it is not distracting to the interviewer.
2. Dress to Impress: The interviewer will be able to see you so dress as you would for a face-to-face interview. Avoid clothes with distracting patterns and stick with basic solid colors such as black.
3. Make Eye Contact: Though you will be able to see your interviewer on the monitor, try to focus on the webcam eye while fielding questions. If you are staring at the screen while talking it may appear to the interviewer that you are looking down rather than at them. Consider placing a picture of a good friend next to the web cam to remind you to look up.
4. Avoid the Mug-shot Look: Frame yourself in the screen by turning your body slightly to the left or right while keeping your face to the camera. This will eliminate the straight on mug-shot look.
5. Practice Makes Perfect: Practice your video interviewing skills prior to the actual interview. Career Development Services offers InterviewStream, an interactive web cam resource, where you can perfect your interview skills and digitally record responses for review.

Armed with these tips and confidence in yourself, you will be ready to ace your video interview and wow your potential employers. Note: If you need assistance in using a webcam for a video interview, Career Development Services can provide a private room and laptop in Mary Martin Hall, call 844-4774 for more information.

Author: Meaghan Lee
Graduate Student