In response to the spread of COVID-19, many companies are making the switch to remote work – which means their hiring processes are moving remote, too. Our Student Placement Team recognizes that preparing for a video job interview involves different considerations and logistics than an in-person one. We’re sharing the tips they’ve gathered and have been coaching our students around to ensure you’re set up for success!
- Use your computer, not your phone for video calls.
- Test audio and camera at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled interview. If sound quality isn’t great, use a headset or earphones to avoid an echo.
- Elevate your laptop with books, board games, etc. so your camera is at eye level to avoid staring down into the camera.
- Dress professionally—and not just from the top up! Dress the part to act the part.
- Make sure your username is your first and last name (as shown on your resume), and it is properly capitalized.
- Position yourself at a table, against a plain and neutral background. Avoid positioning yourself by a window and make sure there is no clutter around you.
- Check the lighting in the room. Light the room from the front and not from the back.
- Close all other applications on your laptop and turn off notifications.
- Silence your cell phone and disable vibration.
- Have a copy of your resume on hand.
- Attach post-its around the laptop screen with prompts and questions you wish to ask the interviewer
- Exclude kids, pets, etc. from the room during the interview.
- Have a pen and paper on hand.
- Have a glass of water next to you.
- Have the phone number of the interviewer in case the video connection is lost.