Video interviews

Video interviews have been increasingly popular for some time. They offer a number of advantages over traditional interviews (where you meet the company representatives in person). Apart from the fact that you don't have to travel to the interview, the main advantage is that you do the interview from home and are therefore in a familiar environment. There are three typical forms of video:  Video interview (synchronous in time): You meet on a common video conference platform (Skype, Zoom, Google Hangouts, etc.). The interview is most similar to the classic job interview, both in terms of the process itself and in terms of the questions.  Recorded interview (asynchronous in time): This is usually done using specialised software where you dial in at any time. The system will then display a few questions, to which you record your answers. These are then sent to the company. You usually only have a defined number of attempts and a time limit of two to three minutes (per question) to record your answers.  Sales pitch: In this case, you are typically given 30 to 60 seconds to record a "sales video" about yourself. Here you win over the company by promoting yourself as if you were a product.

Technical requirements

Basically, the same rules apply to video interviews as to face-to-face interviews. However, there are additional technical requirements that necessitate a certain amount of preparation.  Camera and microphone: Both must be of good quality to achieve a clear picture and good sound. Test the equipment before the interview.  Lighting: Ideally, set it up so that the light comes from the front to avoid shadows on your face. If your room has a window, sit so that you have as much daylight as possible in your face. If this is not possible, place a lamp behind the camera.  Camera position: The camera should be at eye level for a good shot of your face. Ideally, it should be about an arm's length away from you so that the proportions are right and part of the background is visible.  Background: Make sure the background is tidy and neutral. Pictures on the wall are allowed if they are not distracting or give a false image of you.  Clothing: Choose the same type of clothes you would wear for a face-to-face interview.

For technical reasons, strong patterns (checks, stripes, sequins, etc.) are not advisable.

Unicoloured clothes are ideal.

Conducting a conversation

In principle, the same rules apply here as in a personal conversation: be friendly, open and authentic. However, there are additional requirements for technical reasons.  Language: Sprich deutlich und klar, damit du gut verstanden wirst. Mache zusätzliche Pausen, um deinem Gegenüber die Gelegenheit zu geben, Nachfragen zu stellen oder das

Thema zu wechseln.  Facial expressions and gestures: Use your facial expressions as you would in a natural conversation. Although the image may be a little smaller in the video conference, it will still be seen. You can also use your hands to emphasise key messages. If the camera distance is good, these gestures will be noticed.  Look at the camera: Do not look at your screen (although this may seem very natural to you); instead look directly at the camera. This establishes eye contact with the person you are speaking to. You can also stick a marker next to your camera to remind yourself.  Note: During a video call, no one can see what you have placed next to your computer.

Use this, for example, to look at your CV or to make important notes (about the job and about yourself).  Taking notes: Of course, you are also allowed to take notes during a video interview. Ideally, you should do this by hand to avoid unnecessary noise from your keyboard.