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"We shape our tools and thereafter our tools shape us."
Marshall McLuhan
Think back to 1981, the year MTV began and their nascent theme song: "Video Killed The Radio Star" and I find myself and my business...and you...in that same boat.
If the pandemic hasn't already forced you to polish your video presence it's a sure bet you'll need to for you and your brand to stay relevant. While Zoom meetings can be a relatively comfortable space, Zoom interviews aren't.
Here are a few things you can do to take the mystery out of the malaise for both employers and candidates.
- Pick a quiet space, in a well lit room, preferably facing a window or light and let other household members know not to interupt you
- Make eye contact with the camera as if it were the person you're speaking with and affirm what they're saying
- Choose a "professional" background, clear the clutter and avoid virtual backgrounds
- Silence your phone and turn off notifications on your computer
- Use a laptop or desk top -- the image from a cell phone isn't as good even if mounted on a tripod
- Be sure you're technology is current with the latest download; you'll be less likely to drop the call
- Close everything on your screen and if you wear glasses, be sure there's no reflection so the other party can see your eyes
- Practice - chat with friends, do mock interviews
- Watch your body language - sit up tall, hands in your lap, feet on the floor and use non-verbal communications like nodding or smiling to show that you're listening
- Dress professionally, head to toe, so you'll feel like you're fully prepared and professional
- Ask questions - prep for the end of the interview with a desired closing and call to action
It's also wise to take a good look at your LinkedIn profile and be sure it matches your resume verbatim. A quick review of all your social media pages should also be on your list of things to do as you prepare.
Video interviews "feel" different, and they are. However the same techniques of traditional interview are applicable. The only thing that's changed is the medium. And as Marshall McLuhan proposed waaaay back in 1964: The Medium Is The Message.
Of course, this is only my opinion, but it's one I value highly.
