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The way companies are conducting interviews has changed and you can expect video interviews to be a part of the future.
In Barden we expect to, and are prepared for, much more of this over the coming months. You should be too.
It goes without saying that the usual interview prep tips still apply, but there are a few other things you need to keep in mind when preparing for a video interview. Here Brian O’Connor ACA, Associate with Barden and expert in recently qualified accounting careers, shares our top tips for recently qualified accountants who are preparing for video interviews.
What Tools is a Hiring Manager Likely to use for a Video Interview?
There are lots of tools available for video interviewing including:
It is likely the interviewer will have a preferred technology. However there’s no doubt that Zoom is leading the pack.
It would be worthwhile asking what technology will be used, once the time and date of the interview is confirmed. Once you know their chosen tool make sure you get familiar with it.
A Little Bit More About Zoom
Simply put Zoom is video conferencing software that lets you connect remotely for video or voice-call meetings (let’s call them interviews from now on).
The hiring manager will host the interview and will invite you to join it. The invite will include a web link and access code (make sure to have these on hand when you’re logging into the video interview).
The good news is you don’t have to download Zoom to take part in the video interview. You can simply use the weblink you’re sent. You can join via your computer or phone.
Some Top Tips When Being Interviewed Using Zoom
Most of these are not exclusive to Zoom, and cover off regular phone and video interviews. However there’s a few extra pieces to keep in mind when using Zoom:
- Check out Zoom in advance. You can always sign up for a ‘free account’ to get used to the technology.
- Do a test run checking the software is working, your connection is good and you know how the video and audio work….maybe enlist the help of a family member to do a practice interview with you.
- Set up your phone or laptop…may sure it’s set at the correct height so the interviewer can see you properly (and not the top of your head, or the lovely painting hanging in your living room!
- Dress as if you were heading to the interview in person. Why? It helps to get you in the right mindset and brings an air of professionalism.
- Prepare your interview space…avoid slouching on the couch! Set up a quiet, comfortable space where there will be no interruptions. And have a glass of water at hand.
- Background noise might be an issue…especially if others are at home too. Make sure to try and eliminate any background noise…pick a quiet room, close the door (sounds obvious but something that could be easily forgotten) and wear earphones or ear pods.
- Switch off all notifications on your phone, and laptop (if you’re using one).
- Have your CV, pen and paper handy if you wish to make notes.
- Another obvious one but…make sure you’re not eating or chewing gum during the interview…remember the sound will travel!
- SMILE…smiles can be heard so make sure to smile as you talk.
- Speak slowly and clearly and watch your body language (we all have little idiosyncrasies that we’re not even aware of…it might be an idea to keep an eye for these in your practice run and rule them out in the actual call).
- Make sure to look at the camera and not the screen, as much as possible, so the interviewer does not think you’re looking down.
- Log on a few mins before the interview is due to start to make sure everything is working and you’re ready to go.
- If you experience a connection issue make sure to use the chat functionality to let the other interviewer know.
- Make sure to PREPARE…prepare properly for an interview and you will perform better at interview. Do your research so you know the company, industry, role and your own CV! Also practice and prepare competency based questions and have your answers ready.
And lastly, good luck!!
Want more interview advice?
We are experts when it comes to preparing for interview. Get in touch with us, at hello@barden.ie, for 1:1 interview coaching by finance professionals for finance professionals. With Barden interview advice you will have an edge on your competition.