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Top tips on preparing for your video interview

Video Interviews

When it comes to video interviews, it's essential to prepare and present yourself in the best possible way. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

Technology

Test your technology: Ensure that your internet connection, webcam, and microphone are working properly. Test them in advance to avoid any technical issues during the interview.

Time Keeping

Please be ready to take the Video call in a quiet location where you can be heard and will be uninterrupted; and allow a few minutes either side of the appointed time to be on the safe side. Sometimes the interviewer may have to finish a previous call or appointment before calling you so be patient and remain completely professional even if they are a little late. If you are going to be late or miss the call, please call Rayner Personnel or your interviewer to advise.

Driving

DO NOT DRIVE while you are taking a call under any circumstances – even with handsfree or Bluetooth connections! Many companies have legal restrictions against interviewing candidates while they are driving. If you need to take the call while you are in your car, please pull over and park in a safe place before doing so.

Dress professionally

Dress as you would for an in-person interview. Opt for professional attire that aligns with the company's culture. Dressing professionally helps create a positive impression.

Research

Researching the company before the interview and learning as much as possible about its services, geographical area and competition will give you an edge in understanding and addressing the company’s needs. Always check the company website - the more you know about a company the stronger your chance of success.

Impression

Remember that on a Video call you will be seen, and so will the location where you are taking the call! It is essential that you make an excellent impression so dress appropriately and as if you are attending a meeting.

Our guidance is to take the call in a straight-backed chair rather than a comfortable settee! This will have a big influence on the way you come across. Look at your surroundings and make sure that there is nothing that can be seen by the interviewer that might create a negative impression. Try to find a location that is completely private, where you can get a good signal and where there are no other people (particularly small ones) who might interrupt the interview.

Think carefully about what you say and how you say it. Try not to revert to slang and don’t swear!

Be professional, courteous and respectful always.

Eating & Smoking

Whilst we understand that you may be trying to conduct the interview during the limited amount of time you have at your disposal, do not eat, smoke or vape during the interview under and circumstances!

Enthusiasm

All interviewers are different: adapt your approach according to the interviewer’s personality whilst remaining professional. Speak clearly and in a confident voice, even though you may feel nervous, to demonstrate confidence.

Listen

This is often forgotten as candidates are too worried about selling themselves and talking about their experiences. Make sure you listen carefully to the questions being asked. Try not to interrupt or talk over the interviewer.

Answer the Question Asked

Remain relevant and do not feel rushed to answer. Candidates often make the mistake of not actually answering the question. Make sure you understand what is being asked, especially if you are not being interviewed in your mother tongue and get further clarification if you are unsure. Try to avoid vague stories about your background but do give examples that highlight your successes and uniqueness. Answer honestly and try to remain positive. If you must give a negative answer, try to follow with a positive statement.

Ask Questions

Many interviewees don’t ask questions and miss the opportunity to find out valuable information. Your questions indicate your interest in the company or job. An interview should be a two-way discussion, an opportunity for you to find out about the company and the position as well as for the potential employer to assess your suitability for the role. Try to save some questions for the end of the interview.