Interview tips for employers via video:.
Perform a video interview test run
It can reflect poorly on you and your company if you’re unable to connect or struggle to use the video conferencing platform. To conduct the most successful video interview possible, interviewers should familiarize themselves with the technology in advance. This way, [you] can troubleshoot and solve any potential difficulties before the conversation takes place.
Additionally, be sure to check that your computer’s audio is working, test your computer’s webcam, and ensure that your internet connection is stable and that the device you’re using to conduct the interview is fully charged.
Provide instructions for using the video conferencing platform
Whether you use Zoom, Skype, Google Hangouts, etc keep in mind that the candidate may not be familiar with your platform of choice.
Will the candidate need to download any software? Create a username and password? Provide step-by-step instructions for accessing the platform, so the candidate can seamlessly connect to the interview.
Additionally, you might consider giving the candidate a backup phone number in case they experience any problems connecting to the video conference.
We also recommend that employers should ask the interviewee to show up a few minutes early to ensure everything is working properly. There’s nothing more stressful than spending the first few minutes of an interview fussing with technology.
Schedule separate meetings and budget time accordingly
Consider scheduling more time on your calendar for a video interview than you typically would for an in-person interview. Between technical difficulties that may arise and candidates who provide long-winded answers to your questions, the video interview can go longer than anticipated.
Set up a professional, well-lit space to conduct the video interview
Even though you might not be in a traditional office setting, it’s important to set an appropriate scene for the video interview. This means that the space should be well-lit, clean, and free from background distractions.
Prepare your video interview questions ahead of time
As with any interview, don’t try to wing it. It’s important to have the interview questions you like to ask planned ahead of time. Have those questions in front of you to help keep the interview on track and ensure all your questions get answered.
During the video interview, consider starting with some icebreaker questions to help put the candidate at ease. Keep in mind that video interviews can be just as unusual for the job seeker as they are for you.
Try to control background noise
Find a quiet location for your interview. When conducting video interviews from home, it’s best practice to give everyone in your household a heads up to prevent children and spouses from interrupting. You’ll also want to mute any notifications on your computer and phone and close out of any apps to help ensure a quiet setting.
Appear as professional and personable as you would in person
From what you wear to what you say to how you act, there shouldn’t be much difference in how you would conduct a video interview versus one that’s face-to-face. Even if it’s just your top half, dress appropriately like you would if you were meeting the candidate in person. When listening, smile, nod, and sit up straight to show the candidate that you are engaged in the conversation.
Eye contact is key here, too. When making eye contact during a video interview, you should look directly into the webcam, not at the candidate on your screen.
Follow up with next steps
Whether your interview is in person or over video, it’s best practice to follow up with candidates afterward. Especially amid the coronavirus pandemic, job seekers are more stressed than ever before, and not hearing back from an interview can amplify that stress.
