Video Interviews

Video interviews are interviews that are conducted via video conferencing (Zoom, Skype, myinterview, Spark Hire, etc.).  Similar to phone interviews, these can be conducted 1-on-1 (1 interviewer and the interviewee), with a panel of interviewers in one location, and sometimes there are numerous interviewers on the call who are in different locations.

Video interviews are typically conducted either as a preliminary round in the interviewing process or for a convenient way to interview candidates who may not be local to the company.  When conducted as an initial of multiple rounds of interviews, these interviews can typically be anywhere from 15 – 45 minutes in length.  This is helpful when employers have many applicants they are trying to consider before narrowing down their options further.  If video interviewing is being used during the final rounds of interviews, it is far more common for them to be 45 minutes – over an hour in length.

Tips for navigating the Video Interview:

  1. Test out the video interviewing site or software ahead of time if possible.  You want to be sure that the sound and microphone are working properly to avoid any malfunctions come time for the true interview.
  2. Plan out where your interview will be held.  Find a location that will have minimal distractions to you and your interviewers.  Look for a location that you won’t be disrupted by a roommate, a pet, phone ringing, etc.  If you need a space to use, consider calling the NDSU Career and Advising Center at 701-231-7111 to reserve an interviewing space.
  3. To avoid distractions for your interviewer(s), you’ll also want to be sure to avoid all of the items listed above.  In addition, consider the background of your camera angle.  Are there distracting posters on the wall?  A mess on the floor?  Make sure that everything that they will see during the interview is a professional reflection of who you are.
  4. Treat this as an in person interview.  Dress appropriately and make sure you are well groomed.
  5. It is recommended that you utilize a desktop or laptop for video interviewing, rather than a cell phone.  The shaking of a handheld device can be distracting and off-putting to an interviewer. The computer ensures more stability, so if you have to use a phone try to make sure it has a sturdy surface to sit on during the interview.