We have good news — your resume has caught a recruiter’s attention. You don’t need to travel anywhere, and you only have to get half-ready — it’s all advantages. However, statistics show that not many candidates are comfortable demonstrating their abilities on camera. Today, let’s talk about video interviews and break down how to ace them so you get invited for an in-person meeting.

Video interviews were actively used even before the lockdowns, but in the pandemic era, they became increasingly relevant and almost completely replaced traditional office interviews. Instead of a physical address, you receive a link to an online platform. Congratulations, your resume has impressed a company that uses modern selection methods.

An online interview is an excellent tool for saving time, money, and energy. However, it’s important to keep several nuances in mind when preparing:

• Before the meeting, ensure you have everything you need: the necessary software is installed, and your headset and camera are working.
• When connecting to the interview, use your full name; save fun nicknames for calls with friends.
• Adjust your lighting and set up or choose a clean, simple background.
• Check your internet connection.
• Make sure no household members will disturb you during the conversation.
• Clarify with the manager who will be initiating the call.
• Approach the meeting as you would an in-person one: research the company, study the job requirements in detail, and prepare answers to key questions.

Now you’re all set and fully prepared. But how do you make a great impression, demonstrate your competence, and win them over during a remote meeting?

• Don’t freeze up; show a little more emotion than usual. Use active gestures and smile
• Business attire is an essential part of any meeting; don’t neglect it. Despite the relaxed setting, you need to look like a professional, and a good business outfit will boost your confidence
• Cheat sheets. Have a notepad and pen ready to briefly jot down important information. You can also use the notepad to list questions you’d like to ask at the end of the interview
• Eye contact. In an in-person meeting, if you look away, the interviewer might perceive it as a thoughtful pause. However, in an online meeting, it’s not always clear where you’re looking, which can create a false impression of disinterest. Try to look at the camera
• Body language. Maintain a natural posture, try to relax, and don’t let your nervousness show. Show active engagement in response to the interviewer by nodding and using facial expressions to indicate agreement
• Before sharing your first impressions with family after the interview, make sure you have completely disconnected from the meeting and that your camera and microphone are off

We hope our tips help you successfully advance to the next stage and secure an in-person meeting.