How to Ace Your Video Interview During Lockdown

Even if your interview is taking place on Zoom, you should still dress as thought you were going to a face-to-face interview

Working from home can be hectic, especially if you have kids or pets, but try to find a quiet space in your home that is free from distraction. Pick a time when you know you won’t be distracted so you can fully concentrate on your interview.

You want to place yourself somewhere that is well lit with as little visual distraction as possible. A plain wall would be ideal, but don’t forget to tidy your background if that's not possible! If you’re filming in your bedroom, make your bed, put your unfolded clothes away, make it as professional as you can.

Prop your phone, tablet or laptop on a table so that the camera is eye level with you. You don’t want your interviewer to be looking up your nose or down on you. These little things will help to give the best impression of you to the interviewer.

Grab a pair of earphones for the best audio connection. This will help to ensure that you and your interviewer will be able to talk to each other without any disruptions.

Like all interviews, you should be prepared so grab your CV, your notes and a pen and paper.

Have a practice run of your video interview with a family member or friend. This will help you spot issues you didn’t notice before your interview. During your practice run there’s a few things you’ll want to check:

• Internet Connection - Test your internet to ensure your interview goes smoothly. Close down any tabs or apps that you won’t be using for the best quality. 
• Audio - Do my earphones work? Make sure that the other person can hear you clearly.
• Visual - Can you see me?  Make sure your camera is working and that you can be seen.

Life isn’t perfect, so what can you do if things go wrong?

Ask for a contact number before your interview in case your internet cuts out. This way you’ll still be able to ask to continue the interview on the phone and still be able to communicate with them

If you’re interrupted by noise, wait for it to go down before continuing to speak. Consider muting your mic when you’re not speaking.

If a family member or friend unexpectedly enters your room, ask your interview for a few minutes to sort out the issue. Mute your mic while you talk to that person and then go back to your interviewer and apologise for the interruption.