What is the video interview?
Video interviewing is the practice of conducting a job interview over the Internet through video communication software, such as Skype or Facetime. There are two types of video interviews, a one-way video interview and a video call. For one-way interviews, the employer gives candidates a series of questions and you record the video of the interview and submit it for later review. In a video call interview, you answer the video call when the interviewer calls and talks to the person via video. The conversation is in real time, unlike the one-way interview; you can see them and they can see you.
Video interviews are becoming a new common trend among employers in the construction, engineering, and environmental industries. It is very cost effective and time efficient, and can be used anywhere in the world. Employers can learn everything they need to know, without the travel and hassle of the interview process. Interviewing in this way can be very different from the face-to-face meetings used in the construction, engineering, and environmental industries in the past. Instead of talking to someone in person, you’ll be talking to someone through a computer screen. It may seem a bit awkward to talk to a face on a computer screen, but learning how to prepare yourself can go a long way.
This blog will explain the pros and cons of video interviewing, as well as everything you need to know to make it through your next video interview in the construction, engineering, or environmental industry.
The pros of video interviews:
- Very profitable and efficient for both employers and candidates.
- The candidate can be interviewed anywhere in the world, closing the gap caused by geographical location.
- Great way to screen candidates before calling for a face-to-face meeting
- The interview can be recorded for further review
The cons of video interviews:
- You must have internet access to be a candidate
- Connectivity issues can happen and can be very inconvenient and stressful.
- Talking on the computer can be uncomfortable and increase nerves
- Some people feel that they don’t interview as well on video as they do in person.
How to prepare for the interview:
1. Make sure your computer software, microphone, and webcam are working properly before the interview.
Make a test call to a friend or family member about an hour before the interview and familiarize yourself with video calls. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to fix any issues that may arise. Check your Internet connection to try to avoid any connectivity issues during the call.
2. Prepare your environment
Employers will not only see you, but also those around you. Make sure the area behind you is neat, clean, and not distracting. Go to a quiet place and be sure to turn off the ringer on your cell phone. Make sure the lighting is good and the interviewer can see you clearly.
3. Dress well
Although you will not see the interviewer in person, it is important to dress nicely, as if you were going to the job interview in person. The construction, engineering, and environmental industries can be a very competitive job market, so the interview should be taken very seriously, even if it’s not what you’re used to.
4. Familiarize yourself with the company
Find out about the company you are interviewing for. Learn what the company does, what they stand for and what they look for in an employee. You’ll stand out as an interviewee if you’ve taken the time to get to know the company and can make sure you’re the employee they’re looking for.
Lastly and most importantly, don’t be late or miss the video call! This is the same as being late or missing an in-person job interview.
As the Internet bridges the gap between nations, video interviewing is becoming a much more common practice in the construction, engineering, and environmental industries. Applying for jobs around the world is now possible with video calls. It eliminates the need to travel and saves time for both parties. It has its pros and cons, but overall it’s a very useful and reliable option for construction, engineering, and environmental professionals.
