A guide to video interviews

Shane Green

Many people trip up on avoidable obstacles when recording video interviews. Shane Green offers the following advice for a smooth and successful interviewing experience.

Preparation is key

Research the company and job role. Thorough knowledge of what you are applying for ensures that you know exactly which relevant and valuable skills you can bring to the company.

Practise beforehand to ensure you can speak clearly and confidently. By practising beforehand, the points you want to make will sound much more fluid – they will be at the front of your mind and you are less likely to stumble and hesitate.

Dress professionally. Wear appropriate clothes that show your professionalism without being too formal; you don’t want what you wear to distract from your words.

Check your internet connection. There’s nothing more frustrating than a jumpy video – or losing a recording along with your connection.

Banish all distractions

Choose an appropriate location to record. Keeping the background plain makes you the focus of the video. If you are recording in multiple stages, ideally the videos should be recorded in similar lighting for continuity.

Avoid noise interruptions. Noisy pets or ringing phones make for a difficult environment to concentrate in.

Use a mouse. This not only gives you a place to rest your hand but makes for a smooth ending to the recording, rather than fumbling on a trackpad.

Mind your manners

Minimise hand gestures. Try to keep still when speaking and avoid fidgeting.

Give the camera full eye contact and wear a smile. Think of it as if you are addressing a person – speaking to the camera means you will be holding the gaze of the viewer and appear confident.

Avoid long pauses. This is where the practice beforehand comes in, as it will help you to speak calmly and confidently without hesitations or the dreaded mind-blank.

Don’t be afraid to add some personality into answers – it doesn’t have to be boring. Add some humour when relevant and don’t forget to smile.

Shane Green is CEO of SMARTVIEW.