Nailing Your One-Way Video Interview: Tips for Success
Hello, Career Raven Coven!
One-way video interviews have become an increasingly popular part of the job search process. Whether you're applying for remote jobs or companies using these interviews to screen candidates, it's important to be prepared for this unique format.
While it can feel awkward answering questions with no live feedback, you can still shine and make a memorable impression! Here’s how to approach one-way video interviews with confidence and set yourself up for success.
Why One-Way Video Interviews Can Feel Awkward
One-way video interviews don’t offer the usual back-and-forth conversation, making it easy to feel like you’re speaking to a void. You don’t get to see the interviewer’s body language, which can make it hard to gauge your performance. Additionally, the lack of interaction can make it feel like you’re talking to no one at all.
But don’t let that get to you! With the right mindset and preparation, you can master this format and deliver a great response, no matter how many takes you need.
How to Nail Your One-Way Video Interview
Prepare for Common Questions
The best way to start preparing is by anticipating common interview questions, like: “Tell me about yourself,” or “Why do you want to work here?”
Practice your answers and time them so they’re concise but impactful. You won’t have the luxury of a live conversation to clarify things, so making your answers clear from the start is key.
Maintain Eye Contact (Look at the Screen)
In a one-way video interview, eye contact is more important than ever. Look directly at the screen, if you can have the platform open and some notes to glance at to jog your memory. This is where practice will come in handy ( more on that below).
Use Positive Body Language
Even though the interviewer won’t see you physically in person, they can still notice how you communicate through your body language. Sit up straight, smile, and nod when appropriate to show engagement and confidence.
Tip: Keep your gestures natural. Don’t overdo it, but show energy through your posture and hand movements.
Speak Slowly and Clearly
One-way interviews often have a timer, so it’s easy to rush through your answers. But it’s essential to speak slowly and clearly, ensuring you get your points across effectively without mumbling or speaking too quickly.
Tip: Take a moment to think before answering. This helps you stay calm and articulate your response more clearly.
Stay Calm and Focused
It’s normal to feel nervous, but stay calm and focus on delivering your best answers. Deep breaths can help keep anxiety at bay and help you think more clearly during your responses.
Tip: If you make a mistake or misspeak, don’t worry! You can always re-record your response (if allowed) or keep moving forward with your next answer. Sometimes, they are looking to see how you recover.
Be Prepared for Technical Glitches
Sometimes, technical issues arise. Audio might cut out, or your internet connection might lag. Don’t panic! Test your technology beforehand, and if something goes wrong during the interview, stay composed and calmly address the issue with the platform’s tech support team if necessary.
Bonus Tip: Practice Makes Perfect
The more you practice, the better you’ll get at handling the awkwardness of one-way video interviews. Record yourself answering questions and watch the playback to identify areas for improvement. This also helps you adjust to speaking to the camera instead of a live person. When practicing, have your notes open on your screen and record yourself to see if it's obvious that you need to read some details every once in a while. You don’t want to look like you are reading from a script, but moving your eyes as if you are thinking.
This Week’s Challenge:
This week, I challenge you to practice a one-way video interview on your own. Record yourself answering common interview questions and evaluate your performance. Pay attention to your body language, tone, and pacing to make sure you’re confident and clear in your responses.
Need Help?
If you want personalized tips or to role-play for your one-way video interview, I’m here to help! Let’s work together to ensure you stand out and ace your next video interview.
Stay tuned and keep soaring!
With Empowerment and Strategy,
Jen DeLorenzo
Career Coach & Reverse Recruiter
