Video interview and your body language

Facial expressions and gestures are important in video interviews

Job interviews using video conference tools are very popular. You can look here – https://resumegets.com/. This modern, digital form of application has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, you are staying within the home of your own home, so you need to make some special preparations. We explain what you need to consider for video interviews.

One aspect that we did not cover in this article is correct body language. We are addressing this particular subject here. Because your sitting posture, your movements, and your facial expressions are also important in a video interview. With these tips you can get through an interview using video conferencing software very well:

The basics

The rules for a “normal” job interview also apply to exchange about tools like GoToMeeting, Zoom, Skype, and the like. That means:

• Try to be as easy and relaxed as possible.
• Keep your arms, hands, and legs under control, don’t fidget.
• Speak calmly, focused, and at a comfortable pace.
• Adopt an open posture in which, for example, you do not cross your arms.
• Always be friendly and smile.

Posture

A video interview in which you lie comfortably on the couch or “loll around” is a no-go. Place your notebook or computer screen on a table. Sit on a comfortable chair in front of it. Assume an upright posture but relax your shoulders.

Do you have a high table? Then you can do the video interview standing up. But only if you can hold out for fifteen, thirty, or more minutes. If you have to sit down in between and shut down your table and set up the webcam again, this will cause a disturbing interruption.

Movement

Video interviews consist of a fixed camera angle with a limited field of view. Every facial expression and every gesture is given a higher priority. As a result, many people “freeze” in front of the camera: They no longer dare to move.

A mistake! Because body language is very important at an interview. So make sure that you don’t appear too stiff. Move. Use your hands. And show emotions on your face.

Cropping

Set up your camera so that it shows more than just a portrait view. Bring your entire head (do not cut off the top!) As well as the chest area with arms into view. Ideally, you should select a section of the image where the HR employee can see your hands.

Eye contact

Most webcams are over or placed under a screen. That means, if you want to see the recruiter, look past the lens of your camera. This is bad because you should make eye contact as often as possible. Therefore, do not look at your monitor but directly at the camera.

Distraction

As you conduct the video interview at home on your computer, there is an increased risk of distraction. Turn off any programs you don’t need. This includes your e-mail program, your messenger and chat tools, and your browser.

Anything that distracts you lowers your concentration. And it negatively affects your facial expressions and gestures. For example, if a browser with a website is open, flashing advertising banners can make your eyes jump back and forth.

Gimmicks

Clean up your table. Your best bet is to remove anything unrelated to your interview. This way you are not tempted to subconsciously reach for your smartphone or play with a paper clip.

Notes

Do not use your computer for notes! The clacking of your keyboard is annoying. Better to use a pen and a pad the old-fashioned way. And, of course, a pen is intended for writing, not for nervous messing around!

Speaking pauses

Important netiquette for everyone application reads: Always let the HR manager speak calmly, don’t interrupt them.

Applications via video tools can lead to lags, i.e. short delays in the transmission. The words may overlap in this way. If you notice such a technical malfunction, inform the recruiter about it.

Breathing

Use a headset or a hands-free device, your breathing sounds may be louder than usual. Avoid this by using good equipment.

You should also watch your breathing. For example, if you have a stuffy nose due to a mild cold, the nasal spray can help prevent unnatural breathing.

Extra tip: Adaptation

Have you ever done so heard of the chameleon effect? This is the adaptation of the body language to the person you are talking to.

If you practice how the chameleon effect works, you can earn a few points of sympathy with your harmonized gestures and facial expressions. But don’t overdo it, otherwise, you’ll get the opposite effect.

More tips for your online interview

As with any job interview, this also applies to job interviews via video conference programs: Prepare yourself as well as possible!

The preparations include choosing the right outfit and going through the possible questions. And practice the interview with friends and acquaintances, especially if you have not yet participated in a video interview.