Even though video interviews have been around for some time, it was not until now that they have gained more visibility and are competing hand in hand with in-person interviews, which does not infer that one is better than the other. Both have their pros and cons and can perfectly complement one another. However, the approach to take in each one, from the candidate’s and recruiter’s point of view, differ. So, it is crucial to know what kind of interview we will be facing to prepare accordingly.

In-Person Interviews

This kind of interview is more costly for both the candidate and the recruiter and also time-consuming.

Planning a whole day in-campus can be exhausting for the recruiter. The same can be said about the applicant who has to travel to the interview location that may mean expenses that the employer is not ready to cover.

However, in-person interviews are irreplaceable in terms of non-verbal cues and overall demeanor that other methods, like video conferencing, are incapable of grasping. For instance, body language and eye contact, essential in education, can be better perceived in one on one interaction. Rephrasing, re-asking, elaborating more freely, are also tools the interviewee has to ace the interview. And the recruiters can gather more information from spontaneous answers.

Video Conference Interviews

One main holdback that video interviews face is the lack of spontaneity. Questions tend to be more direct and answers straight and concise. Body language is limited to facial expressions, and eye contact may get lost with a candidate looking at the screen instead of the camera. In such a situation, 

the absence of body language can hurt the options for a candidate to ace the interview. 

Another aspect to consider is how the applicant can adjust to the hardware and software requirements to carry out the video interview. Any inconvenience in this aspect may interfere in a correct mutual approach. Fortunately, today new software is friendlier and more users are becoming savvier regarding new technology and its uses.

However, video interviews may be beneficial to bridge the distance gap when recruiting far away candidates. For instance, they fit perfectly well out-of-state and international positions.

How to get ready

Keep these differences in mind when getting ready for the interview. Practicing is the key. If you are preparing a video interview:

• Answer questions in front of a camera and record yourself. Then, you will be able to test your performance. 
• Test the equipment and connection, if possible, with someone else or with two different devices. Do not panic if you experience technical problems, the person, at the other end, may be able to see you or hear you. Keep a backup device just in case. 
• Practice using the software to become familiar with it. 
• Dress professionally.
• Find a place only for yourself, keep other family members and pets out of the room.
• Choose a discreet background. A bookcase, for example, with good light.

If you are preparing an in-person interview:

• Choose a friend or family member to practice your answers. One you can trust that will give you constructive feedback.
• Take proper ID and personal papers.
• Know the exact location of the interview. If it is on campus, what building, floor, etc.
• Give yourself enough time to arrive a few minutes early.
• Keep extra copies of your resume, portfolio, and references.
• Be ready to elaborate on experience, anecdotes, ideas.
• Use your body language wisely and to your advantage.

One of the crucial parts of the hiring process is the job interview. Call it virtual or in-person; both require serious and proper preparation to broaden your options.

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