At last, Video is crawling its way into Recruiting.  This is only good news for jobseekers, who will find they are able to interview from the comfort of their home using a webcam, and avoid travel and related expenses.

But, as with every new development, those best prepared will stand a stronger chance of success. Here are 10 recommendations jobseekers should keep in mind when completing a Video Interview:

1. Prepare in advance.  Tech can do a lot of things, but it won’t make up for your lack of preparation. The focus is still about whether you are a good match for the vacancy.

2. Before you hit the play button, make sure you have previously tested your camera and sound. You don’t want to have to respond to a question you haven’t heard. Some employers will not give you the chance to restart the process.

3. Dress appropriately, as you would for a face-to-face interview (at least from the waist up anyway - the camera probably won’t show your Snoopy loafers unless you put your legs up on your computer desk).

4. Have a background as neutral as possible. A huge Britney poster visible behind you probably isn’t a good idea.

5. Make sure there is enough light entering the room, or turn that bedside lamp on. The video will be easier to watch this way.

6. Keep distractions away.  Turn off your cell phone, TV, and MSN. Ask anyone in the house not to knock on your door for a few minutes.

7. Look at the camera. As in a real interview, the recruiter will appreciate you looking in his/her direction and not at your feet or your nextdoor neighbor. The camera can be intimidating, but remember you are talking to a person.

8. Watch the clock. Unlike a real interview (in which the interviewer might interrupt you when you are rambling), you will have the sole responsibility for answering the question in the allotted time.  If your time goes up before you can finish your answer, the recruiter will probably be skeptical about your time management skills. Practice this aspect beforehand, if necessary.

9. Have a line or two ready for the closing.  Normally you won’t get the chance to ask the interviewer questions, but you will probably have time to add anything you think is important and was left out, and thank the interviewer.

10. Be patient.  The video will be immediately visible to the recruiter, but this doesn’t mean he/she will watch it right away. And whether you’ll get that second interview is entirely up to you!

Good luck!

The Entervista Team

www.entervista.com/blog