As an employer looking to hire remote workers, prepping for a virtual interview is an important part of the process. Being thoroughly prepared and considering every aspect of the virtual job interview can help you find the best candidate and make the interview a smooth one for both parties.
Here are five ways to prepare to conduct a virtual job interview:
1. Prepare the interviewee in advance if the interview will be conducted using a video source.
As a professional courtesy, allow the interviewee to prep for the interview to their best ability by alerting them about the potential to video conference. Don’t frighten away a strong candidate by catching them off guard with a video conference request, as they may not have planned for that and will want to put their best image forward. Doing so will promote an immediate level of trust with the candidate.
2. Ensure that your video demeanor is professional but not intimidating.
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Conduct a dry run with a current employee to go through your list of questions and ask for honest feedback about how you come across on video. Attempt to develop a speaking style and facial expressions that will read well in a video conference. Striking a good balance here will be important in finding a good virtual job interview flow.
3. Test your technology.
The virtual job interview dry run that you conduct with an existing employee will also allow you to test your technology in advance of your live interview. Work with the camera positioning so you can see your interviewee well and they have a complementary view of you. Also, be sure to test your audio and speaker volume so you’re able to comfortably hear and so your candidate can easily hear you.
4. Check your lighting.
When you conduct the test of your technology, be sure to also check the lighting. Evaluate the lighting in your space so that you get the best image possible. Consider adding a desk lamp or finding a space with more natural light to project the best image.
5. Dress for the part but not to intimidate.
Shoot for business casual attire to put your interviewee at ease. Making the candidate comfortable will lead to more open dialogue, which will garner you much more information in the long run.
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