Video interviews for Generation Y: the perfect match



Just like social media is part of our everyday life, it is part of our work environment as well. We live and work through Facebook comments, Twitter posts and Instagram photos, advertising our lives to the world. The internet has become an important source for us; it is crucial part of the toolbar of our communication and we love using it in the making of career choices or other vital decisions.


Just like social media is part of our everyday life, it is part of our work environment as well. We live and work through Facebook comments, Twitter posts and Instagram photos, advertising our lives to the world. The internet has become an important source for us; it is crucial part of the toolbar of our communication and we love using it even while making career choices or other vital decisions. With all the easily accessible online platforms we tend to be more comfortable using different social media to express ourselves and get connected with others.

Video interviews are also used for making application for a workplace and selection faster and simpler. It is considered to be useful since speed has become a key element for today’s organisational culture and development, just as much as the fact that plenty of time companies are hiring from abroad thus a personal meeting is not amongst the list of the most available methods of selection.

If you are applying for a position outside of your city or country, or like most members of Generation Y, you want an immediate response or you just simply are freaked out of having a job interview in an office you have never been before, then video interviews are your thing. But you still have to follow some rules in order to be successful.

We are talking about technology so you should test it out beforehand. If you don’t have the appropriate tools, or you know your laptop magically turns off sometimes, make sure you use a device that is trustful and compatible with the platform the company have chosen for the interview (but do not use your cell phone. Please. You are about to have a job interview not taking a selfie). You should start checking out the platform right after you get informed of it. It is safe to know that the sound and visuals are working fine, also it is recommended to try them out at least one day before the interview itself so you can still notify the company in case something is wrong. Even if everything is perfect on your side it is still possible that the other side has bad internet connection or sound. Don’t be afraid to inform them in a way, even during the interview if necessary.

After we got through the technological issues, let’s see your face! Positioning yourself in front of the camera is very important. Do not sit too close, otherwise you will be a floating head, but do not be so far either. Just think of it as you were actually in one room with the interviewer; he needs to see your expressions and behaviour. Naturally, your dress should also be something you would wear on an on-site interview. Employers do not appreciate wannabe colleagues if they show up in their pyjamas. Business casual clothing is an all-time acceptable wear; it is important to appear nice, approachable and smart. Moreover, it is easier to behave like a professional when you are wearing the appropriate clothes.

Of course, appearance is secondary; the real deal is what comes from within. However, it is very difficult to notice if the interviewer’s view is blocked by your cat sitting on top of your keyboard... All of your hard work on looking neat can be ruined if you are having the interview in a distractive environment. It is not one bit professional to talk about your skills from in between warm blankets in your bed or in the kitchen with all the dirty dishes behind you. Sit in front of a neutral background that is not bothering for the interviewer. It is important that he pays attention to you and what you say and not your collection of fantasy novels on your bookshelf. Also, choose a comfortable chair so you can avoid squirming or feeling discomfort. This could help you feel good during the interview, eases the stress and makes you more confident.

The same way the interviewer needs to pay attention to you, you need to pay attention to him. Not your dog, not your mom, not the Facebook notifications on your phone. Try to eliminate all the possible distractions in your surroundings. Remember: you are on a job interview. It would not be very lucky if your phone started ringing or your roommate barged in between questions. You will also be more focused and calm if there is nothing distracting you.

Use these easy tips and do not be afraid to be yourself and go for what you want to achieve. Being successful is not rocket science if you know where and how to start.


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