So you've been requested to complete a Video Q&A, exciting! This interview type is cropping up a lot in recent hiring processes, and it's a great way for employers to get a sense for who you are, prior to speaking with you on the phone or in person! These interviews can be daunting, so we've outlined some tips and tricks to impress your potential employer and make a lasting impression. ✨
Video Q&A is a style of interview which allows candidates to record themselves answering a number of questions set by the employer. The questions can vary depending on what the company is looking to assess, but generally speaking they're likely to ask general questions to learn more about you on a personal level, as well as gauge your interest in the role and company, so you want to take this opportunity to make an impact! It's also a popular method used by employers to determine how well you'd fit into the company culture. For more info on how it works, check out Elliott's explanation below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oz1GkTbnKAQ
→ In preparation to conduct a video Q&A it's important to make sure you choose the right recording space, ensuring you have a quiet spot to record in and where you can avoid any potential interruptions. It's also vital to carefully read the questions set by the employer so you can give the best response, this way you won't be caught off guard! Likewise, you'll be told how long you have to respond to each question (e.g. 2 minutes), so please keep this in mind when recording your answers.
→ This type of interview tends to happen towards the start of the recruitment journey, so it's important to do general prep around the company ahead of completing the Q&A; they'll want to know that you've researched the company, so prepare for questioning around your understanding of who they are and what they do. Having said that, it's really important to familiarise yourself with the job description, ensuring you know what is expected of you in the role and what relevant experience and skills you can bring to it.
→ You want to show the employer that you'd be an asset to the team, so take this opportunity to showcase your personality! Whilst speaking to a camera can be daunting, try to keep a professional mindset going into it; body language is key! 55% of communication is based on what others see, so make sure you're maintaining eye contact with the camera and confidence through your answers. Another benefit to a Q&A is that it's not live, so practise speaking to a camera beforehand to get yourself familiar with it. Remember, with Tempo's Q&As you can rerecord responses once if needed! 🚀
✅ Read the instructions carefully
✅ Research the company & job spec beforehand
✅ Maintain eye contact throughout - body language is key!
✅ Practise speaking to a camera beforehand
✅ Show your dazzling personality!
❌ Ramble, try and stay clear and concise
❌ Record in a noisy or disruptive environment
❌ Dress inappropriately
❌ Use bad language or slang in your answers
❌ Forget to check your webcam & mic are working