Recruiter’s Tips for Candidates: Mastering Professionalism in Video Interviews

Published On - August 28, 2024

Morgan Booker Recruiter Tips

In today’s digital age, video interviews have become a staple in the hiring process, offering a flexible and efficient alternative to traditional in-person interviews. As a recruiter, I’ve seen candidates excel and falter in this format, often due to their approach to professionalism. Here are my top tips to help you present your best self in a video interview.

  1. Preparation is Your Foundation

Research and Rehearse

    • Know the Company: Familiarize yourself with the company’s mission, values, and recent achievements. This insight will allow you to tailor your responses and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.
    • Understand the Role: Thoroughly review the job description and prepare to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the position.

Test Your Tech

    • Check Equipment: Ensure your camera, microphone, and internet connection are all in good working order. Conduct a test call with a friend to troubleshoot any issues beforehand.
    • Familiarize with Software: Download and practice using the video conferencing platform specified by the employer (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams). This will help you avoid technical difficulties during the interview.
  1. Create a Professional Setup

Choose an Appropriate Location

    • Quiet and Private: Find a quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted. Inform household members of your interview time to avoid disturbances.
    • Good Lighting: Position yourself in a well-lit area, ideally with natural light. If using artificial light, ensure it illuminates your face without casting shadows.

Tidy Background

    • Neutral and Clean: Your background should be tidy and free of distractions. A plain wall or a neatly arranged space is ideal. If necessary, use a virtual background that is professional.

Dress the Part

    • Professional Attire: Dress as you would for an in-person interview, from head to toe. Avoid bright colors or patterns that can be distracting on camera.
  1. Exude Professionalism During the Interview

Body Language Matters

    • Posture and Eye Contact: Sit up straight and make eye contact by looking at the camera, not the screen. This mimics direct eye contact and shows engagement.
    • Minimal Gestures: Keep hand movements to a minimum to avoid distraction. Use them purposefully to emphasize points.

Effective Communication

    • Speak Clearly: Articulate your words and avoid mumbling. Take your time to answer questions thoughtfully.
    • Active Listening: Show you are listening by nodding and responding appropriately. Avoid interrupting the interviewer.
    • Manage Interruptions: If unexpected interruptions occur, handle them calmly and professionally. Apologize briefly and continue with the interview.

Use Notes Wisely

    • Reference, Don’t Read: It’s acceptable to have notes, but use them sparingly. Don’t read verbatim from your notes; instead, use them as a reference to ensure you cover key points.
  1. Follow Up Professionally

Send a Thank-You Note

    • Prompt and Personalized: Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview. Mention specific points discussed and reiterate your interest in the position.
  1. Additional Pro Tips

Practice Makes Perfect

    • Mock Interviews: Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to build confidence and receive feedback on your performance.

Digital Etiquette

    • Be Punctual: Log in to the meeting a few minutes early to show punctuality.
    • Mute When Not Speaking: To avoid background noise, keep your microphone muted when not speaking.
    • Professional Username: Ensure your username on the video platform is professional, ideally your full name.

Professionalism in video interviews is multifaceted, encompassing preparation, environment, communication, and follow-up. By adhering to these recruiter-approved tips, you can present yourself as a polished and competent candidate, increasing your chances of success. Embrace these practices to navigate your next video interview with confidence and professionalism.

About Morgan Booker

Morgan has over 18 years of Talent Acquisition, Employee Relations, and Human Resource Business Partner experience. She joined The Christopher Group in 2022 as a Recruiting Manager and has since been promoted to Recruiting Director. Morgan’s focus is partnering with executive Human Resources candidates across the United States to fill Human Resources executive roles. To learn more about Morgan visit her bio page.