Video Interviewing Tips
Here's the polished version:
Video Interviewing Tips
The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed the way many businesses operate — and the recruiting and HR industries are no exception. Virtual interviews conducted through platforms like Zoom, FaceTime, WhatsApp, and Skype have become the new standard. Here are some practical tips to help you put your best foot forward in a video interview.
1. Choose the Right Location
Find a quiet, private space where you're unlikely to be interrupted. If you share your home with a partner, children, or roommates, let them know in advance when your interview is scheduled so they can give you the space you need. Put your phone on silent before the call begins to minimize distractions and keep your full attention on the interview.
2. Test Your Technology Beforehand
A poor internet connection is the last thing you want during an important interview. Do a test run with a friend or family member ahead of time to make sure the platform is working properly and that you're comfortable using all its features. It's also a good idea to have a backup plan ready — knowing how you'd handle a technical issue in the moment means you won't have to scramble to reschedule if something goes wrong.
3. Be Mindful of Your Camera Setup
Position yourself in the centre of the frame, with the camera showing from roughly your shoulders up. Choose a spot with a clean, uncluttered background and good lighting so your interviewer can see you clearly without any visual distractions. A well-lit, tidy setting also signals professionalism before you've said a word.
4. Print Out Your Resume
Rather than keeping your resume open on your laptop during the interview, print a copy to have beside you. That way, if your computer encounters an issue and you need to continue the conversation by phone, you'll still have everything you need on hand. Keep a pen and notepad nearby as well so you can jot down notes as the interview progresses.
5. Dress Professionally
Approach a video interview with the same dress code you'd follow for an in-person meeting. Looking polished and put-together — even on screen — makes a strong first impression. As a general tip, avoid bright or bold colours, which can be visually distracting on camera.
6. Prepare Your Questions — and Expect New Ones
Practice answering common interview questions beforehand, just as you would for any in-person interview — salary expectations, weaknesses, and behavioural questions are all fair game. Keep in mind that amid COVID-19, you may also be asked pandemic-related questions. Read our article on Preparing for a Job Interview During a Pandemic for additional guidance. And don't forget to prepare a few thoughtful questions of your own — asking about the role and the company demonstrates genuine interest and leaves a lasting impression.
Watch Guhuza President Marc Belaiche, CPA, CA discuss this topic here.
Guhuza is created in partnership with TorontoJobs.ca.
Guhuza is the new way to recruit. As an innovative Canadian platform, it goes beyond the traditional job board — using breakthrough technology to instantly match employers and job seekers for the ultimate hiring experience. Our advanced matching system pairs job seeker profiles with relevant positions and ranks candidates for employers based on the skills each role requires. Once a match is made, live interviews can be conducted directly through the platform.
Visit Guhuza.com or our Knowledge Base to learn more.