Michael DeSafey | Executive Recruiter and HR Professional

A Guide To Video Interviews – Tips For Success!!

Date : November 6, 2018 | By : michael_desafey

What Is Video Interviewing?

Video interviewing is the practice of conducting an employment interview on the internet via video communication software, such as Skype or Facetime. There are two types of video interviews, a one-way video interview, and a video call. For one-way interviews, the employer gives candidates a series of questions and you record your interview video and send it for later review. In a video call type interview, you answer the video call when the interviewer calls and talk to the person over video. The conversation is in real time, unlike the one-way interview; you can see them and they can see you. 

Video interviewing is becoming a common new trend among employers in the construction, engineering, and environmental industries. It is very cost and time efficient, and can be used anywhere in the world. Employers can learn everything they need to know, without all the travel and hassles of the interview process. Interviewing in this way can be very different than the face-to-face meetings used in construction, engineering, and environmental industries in the past. Rather than talking to someone in person, you will be talking to someone through a computer screen. It may feel a bit awkward talking to a face on a computer screen, but learning how you can prepare yourself can be a big help. 

This blog will explain the pros and cons of video interviewing, as well as everything you need to know to get through your next video interview in the construction, engineering, or environmental industry, with success. 

The Pros of Video Interviewing:

  • Very cost and time efficient for both employers and candidates
  • Candidate can be interviewed anywhere in the world, closing the gap caused by geographical location.
  • Great way of screening candidates before calling in for a face-to-face meeting
  • Interview can be recorded for additional review

The Cons of Video Interviewing:

  • You must have access to internet to be a candidate
  • Connectivity problems can happen, and can be very inconvenient and stressful
  • Talking over computer can be awkward and increase nerves
  • Some people feel they do not interview as well over video as they do in person

How to Prepare for the Interview:

Make sure your computer’s software, microphone, and webcam are all working properly before the interview.

Make a test call to a friend or family member an hour or so before the interview and familiarize yourself with video calling. Make sure you give yourself enough time to fix any problems that may arise. Check your internet connection to try and avoid any connectivity problems during the call.

Prepare your surroundings

Employers will not only see you, but your surroundings. Make sure the area behind you is neat, clean, and not distracting. Go somewhere quiet and make sure to turn your cell phone ringer off. Make sure the lighting is good and the interviewer can see you clearly.

Dress Nicely

Even though you won’t be seeing the interviewer in person, it is important to still dress nicely, as if you were going to the job interview in person. The construction, engineering, and environmental industries can be a very competitive job market, the interview needs to be taken very seriously, even though it is not what you are used to.

Familiarize Yourself With The Company 

Learn about the company you are interviewing for. Know what the company does, what they stand for, and what they look for in an employee. You will stand out as an interviewee if you have taken the time to get to know the company and can make sure you are the employee that they are looking for. 

Last and most important, do not be late or miss the video call! This is the same as being late or missing an in-person job interview. 

As the internet bridges the gap between nations, video interviewing is becoming a much more common practice in the construction, engineering, and environmental industries. Applying for jobs across the world is now possible with video calling. It eliminates the need for travel and saves time for both parties. It has its pros and cons, but overall is a very useful and reliable option for construction, engineering, and environmental professionals.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing www.webuildstaffing.com  . To learn more about Michael or to follow his blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

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