The Dos and Don’ts of Video Interviews for Training Contracts

Apr 02, 2023

Written By Sophie Wilson

Video interviews are rather common now. There are typically two types: the first is a live interview with employees or partners of the company interviewing you in real time. The second type is a recorded interview, where automated questions are given and you have a set time to record your answer. So, what are some dos and don’ts for both of these types of interviews?

Do’s

DO prepare. Whether you are being asked by a person or by a computer, you are only going to do well if you have researched the firm, if you have examples of when you have shown key skills and if you know why you want the job. You know what they say: if you fail to prepare then prepare to fail.

DO dress smartly. However you are being interviewed, the company will see how you present yourself. Wear what you would to an in person interview (on the top half at least!)

DO write interview questions to ask the interviewers at the end. If this is for a live interview, then asking questions at the end shows interest and an eagerness to learn about the company. If it is pre-recorded you might not have the opportunity to do this, but the process of thinking up questions will allow you to think more about the firm and its goals, which is always useful.

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Don’ts

DO NOT leave the interview until the last minute. If it’s virtual, it’s a good idea to be ready 10 minutes before the interview starts, so you can join the link a minute or so before. Even with a recorded interview, try and do it a day or two before the deadline, so you can resolve any technological issues.

DO NOT allow notifications from emails, texts or the phone ringing distract you. Turn off your mobile and put your computer on do not disturb. If the landline rings then ignore it, apologise and carry on.

DO NOT stare at yourself the whole time. With virtual interviews It is easy to look at yourself in the corner, seeing how you are looking, whether your hair looks nice, or whether you are using your hands too much. Avoid this as much as possible. Maintain eye contact with the interviewers, and either nod along to the interviewers and engage with them, or look at the screen that is displaying the pre-recorded questions. A lot of interviewing is about presentation.

Key Takeaways

So, an online interview is much like an in-person one. Three key takeaways:

- Thorough preparation is key

- While it’s important to be professional, remember to be yourself

- Have a plan for any risks (be they delays or technological issues)

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