7 Zoom interview tips... from the interviewers

In the last few years, many of us have got used to working with colleagues over Zoom or other video platforms. So it’s no surprise that lots of employers think nothing of asking you to dial into a Zoom interview from home. But what if you haven’t worked somewhere where Zoom calls are common? Or what if the idea of having a job interview over one just feels like an extra step out of your comfort zone?

We know that if you haven’t done one before it can feel a bit daunting. But fear not. Our interviewers have come together to provide some top tips to help you prepare – and hopefully ace – your Zoom interview.

1. Prep your surroundings

When it comes to the place you’ll be doing your interview, try to find a quiet spot that’s tidy and presentable. Check what’s visible in the background and consider whether it’s appropriate for a professional video interview, and somewhere you can concentrate.

2. Prevent possible distractions

Awkward interruptions can really throw you off. So pop your phone on silent, let your friends know you’re busy and ask the people you live with not to disturb you for a while. And if you have pets, it’s best to keep them in another room while you do the interview. Don’t get us wrong – we love animals. But we’re interviewing you, not your French bulldog, and it can be a little bit distracting when it’s barking in the background.

3. Dress to impress

One of the best things about a video interview is that you can do it from the comfort of your own home. But while it might be tempting to stay in your pyjamas, you’ll be in a better state of mind if you treat it like a face-to-face interview and put on something you’d wear in person.

Even though you’ll only be visible from the waist up – if we can see your legs, you’re way too far away from the camera – it’s a good idea to wear something smart on the bottom too. What if you have to get up to adjust the lighting? Or your camera drops down? Some things are better left to the imagination – and how you choose to cover your legs is one of them.

4. Check your tech

Whether you choose to do the video interview on your phone, laptop or desktop, you should do a test run before the interview. Familiarise yourself with your webcam and microphone, and check the strength of your internet connection too – we like human faces, not blurry, pixelated ones. And you want to be confident your connection won’t drop mid answer.

5. Practice makes perfect

When it comes to a job interview, there’s no such thing as being over prepared. In the lead up to your video interview, try practicing with a friend or family member, so you can get comfortable both with your interview skills and any weirdness of interviewing on camera. Better yet, record yourself – that way you’ll be able to see first hand how you’re coming across.

6. Make notes – but don’t forget to look at the camera

The good news is that if you notes, it’s absolutely fine to refer to them during your interview. But if you really want to impress, look at the camera and only refer to your notes when you need to. If you read them word for word like a script, you can come across like a robot, so memorise what you can and jot down anything you need to jog your memory.

7. Body language

Even though you’re not physically sat in front of the interviewer, you still need to be mindful of your body language. That means no slouching, fidgeting and waving your hands around. Make sure you’re sat up straight, maintaining eye contact and looking attentive. If you can, try to look at the lens of your camera, and not just staring at your own image to make sure it’s your good side that’s being captured.

And most importantly of all – don’t forget to smile! Smiling shows confidence, openness, warmth and energy. And that gives an interviewer the impression that you’re up to the task at hand.