First-round video interviews are becoming a very convenient and effective practice. They have been acknowledged as a great way to connect with each other, both by potential candidates and employers.

However, one common mistake that candidates should avoid is looking at the video interview as any less formal than a face-to-face one. In fact, they require more care and preparation.

What can candidates do to ace video job interviews? Here are some tips that can help prepare for the video interview as well as for a face-to-face interview:

  • Researching the potential employer
  • Understanding the job requirements
  • Meticulously reviewing your resume and mapping your capabilities with the requirements
  • Practicing how you will position yourself as the best candidate
  • Mock practicing for a video interview

test check the technology and infrastructure

Make sure that you are familiar with your equipment – the computer or laptop, webcam and microphones. Does the audio and video come through correctly? Is your system connected to a reliable power outlet? Do you anticipate any potential technical issue that could impact the effectiveness of your interview? For example, it is important to place the camera at the right eye-level for a direct view and an impactful impression without looking up and down while responding to interview questions.

A practice run on the platform would be ideal. This will give the confidence that it is perfectly operational on your system.

the surroundings matter

The room you take the interview and the background behind you should look professional without any visual (avoid taking the interview in public places) or auditory distractions (traffic sounds, telephone rings and other background noises). The lighting should be such that your face is clearly illuminated without being in the shadows. It also matters how you dress – and it should no less professional than for a face-to-face interview.

make your body language on the camera count

In addition to positioning your computer and web camera at the right levels there are a few other points regarding etiquette, such as:

  • Looking into the camera lens instead of looking at the interviewer
  • Sitting up straight in a chair at the optimal height
  • Tilting of the head in the right balance of looking relaxed and professional

Carrying on a seamless conversation is more difficult in a video interview than in person. While making sure that you do not interrupt your interviewer, you also have to be conscious of giving the right verbal interjections to display your active listening and attentiveness.

make a memorable verbal handshake

Little but important gestures like handshakes or the small talk cannot be replicated online. And that is why is important to leave behind other memorable points of recall in a video interview. That could be an impactful statement, information on the industry, function or technology - or a pithy statement on your accomplishments. A well-worded ‘thank you’ email sent within 24 hours of the interview acts as a powerful concluding handshake. This is reflective of your professional courtesy and reiterates your interest.

An advantage of a video interview is that you can use notes in front of you without distracting the interviewer. Within the bounds of ethical and honest behavior, use a cheat sheet of the important points you would like to ask of the interviewer.

As a technology application, video interview is here to stay and attain further sophistication. It will also grow in usage. As an applicant and potential candidate it is highly likely that you will have to do video interviews, The tips given above should place you on the right track to acing your video interview.