So, you're looking for a job but it seems that all anybody ever talks about is how hard it is these days, how hard it is to even get an interview.
Or perhaps you've left university, and let's face it, nobody is ever really sure of what comes next. But with that said, you're feeling pretty good about an upcoming interview, and the job actually seems pretty perfect. But why shouldn't people employ you? If only they could see how enthusiastic you are, how charming, polite and friendly you can be, and how much you know and care about your field, they'd see just how suited you are to the role.
Luckily, 30% of employers are now using video interviewing in their recruitment process; and this looks set to increase. With this technology, potential employers can screen you before they even meet you, which may sound a little scary - but we promise it isn't. As with anything new, the unknown can seem a little daunting. However, with a little careful planning, it can actually give you an amazing advantage.
90% of the information that your brain processes is visual; and visual information is processed up to 60,000 times faster than text. In other words, with video interviewing, people, not CVs, are placed at the heart of the selection process.
Instead of relying on a double sided sheet of words, lacking in any sort of personality to do the talking, you can do just that, for yourself.
Firstly, be prepared! Have an idea in your head of what you want to say and the points you want to convey. You wouldn't put the first thing that came into your head onto your CV without a second thought; so think of a video interview as an extension of that. You want to appear organized, collected and like you actually know what you're talking about.
Be natural! If you went to an interview and sat there rigid as a board and speaking in a monotone, then quite frankly, you'd look more than a little strange (and completely lacking in enthusiasm). Treat your video interview like a real life conversation, and let them see the real you. After all; they're looking to hire a person, not a robot.
Be confident. Its cliché, yes - it's been said a thousand times before, and yes, we know confidence doesn't grow on trees, but it is also true that it is absolutely key. Believe in yourself if you expect them to believe in you. You can do it!
Presentation is a game-changer. First impressions count. Simple things that you ordinarily might not have to think about really ought to be considered. Your environment will be under scrutiny, even if only subconsciously. Is your bed made? Have you paid enough attention to lighting? As a general rule, a tidy, neutral background paints a picture of you as an organized person, and allows the employer to focus on what you're saying, without distraction.
And it almost goes without saying - look the part. When was the last time you went to a job interview in your pyjamas? Exactly. Make sure your hair is clean and tidy, you are fresh faced, and your clothing is professional to match your demeanour.
Keep an eye on the countdown. When you're playing around with the video platform, you'll notice that when you press record, you won't just be thrown straight into the deep end. In the corner of the screen, you'll see a countdown which you need to pay attention to. This gives you a much-needed opportunity to breathe and collect your thoughts. Watch the guidance video for advice.
Most importantly, smile. No, we don't mean that you should sit there grinning your head off for 3 minutes looking slightly deranged, but a smile that extends to your eyes could make all the difference.
Last year, there were 100,464,000 job applications in the UK alone, so it's never been more important to be unique.
This is your chance to make a first impression and to really stand out. Saving you both time and money on expenses for a face-to-face interview; it's got a whole host of benefits for you, too.
All that's left to do is to sell yourself and have fun - and if all goes well, then it's time for the hard work.
