There is a growing trend in job-hunting that is moving toward conducting interviews through video over the Internet, especially for jobs that may be in another city.  Knowing how to ace a video interview can be a useful skill for students who start their job search before the end of the school year, and are looking for summer jobs or internships back in their hometown, for example.

Many students these days are very computer literate and accustomed to using technology as part of everyday life.  However, there are still a few points to keep in mind when you get invited to a video job interview, which make this type of interaction unique.

Treat Online Interviews Exactly the Same as In-Person Interviews

This means you should plan and prepare the same way for a video interview as you would for any other interview.  Research the company, know how you plan to highlight your skills, perform practice interviews, and have any questions you want to ask noted down nearby.

Test Your Technology

The use of video and computer equipment is the key difference between online and in-person interviews: you are relying on your technological set-up for all communication.  Make sure you set up your computer, webcam, software such as Skype or another messaging service, and your internet connection ahead of the interview time – and test every part of it.  The last thing you want is a technical glitch or lost Wi-Fi connection to interrupt your interview.

Dress and Behave Professionally

Just because you’re doing your interview from home doesn’t mean you can be casual in your dress or manners.  Remember to dress neatly and professionally (dress shirt, tie, etc.) Even though you can’t give a handshake over the computer, be sure to act professionally throughout the interview. This includes smiling, speaking politely and at a moderate pace, and making eye contact with the interviewer by looking directly at the camera.

Be Mindful of Your Surroundings

This is another unique consideration to video interviews.  You are inviting the interviewer into your space, so make sure that anything the interviewer will see in the background of your video feed is tidy and professional.  This means you should ensure that you have cleaned your room, that there is nothing inappropriate in view on walls or shelves, and that you are in a quiet place where background noises will not interfere with your conversation.

Lastly, Be Yourself!

Like any other interview, this is the key!  You want to be calm and confident, so that your interviewer gets a good sense of who you are and how you will be as an employee.  Speak conversationally, ask questions, and try to make the best impression you can!

SOURCES:

http://www.newswise.com/articles/seven-tips-to-mastering-an-online-job-interview

https://www.livecareer.com/quintessential/acing-online-video-interview