6 Body Language Tips for a Video Interview

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking enough, but video interviews have the ability to raise your anxiety to new heights especially if this is your first time! If you're interviewing for a remote role or one with a hiring manager in another city or country, you can expect the interview to be conducted via Skype or another video chatting platform.

In comparison to a phone or in-person interview, a good video interview would necessitate extra effort on your part. Not only will you need to clear out a clutter-free room in your house, but you'll also need to test your technology by making sure your Internet connectivity is good and that you understand how to use the interview app, whether it's Skype, Google Hangouts, Zoom, or another platform. A good webcam and microphone are needed for presenting a professional image and ensuring that your interviewer can see and hear you clearly.

1. Lean in often but not too far

When someone says something interesting, it's normal to want to get closer to them. If you're doing a video interview, though, you can only lean in so far until your new boss sees you as one big eyeball. You should lean in when it feels comfortable to do so, but not too far, as the hiring manager speaks. During a video interview, simply leaning forward a few inches is often enough to express your interest.

1. Try to keep gesturing 

Many people use gestures to bring their stories to life or to make a point. The problem is that most people are unaware of how often they use their hands before they are registered. You can gesture when speaking in your video interview, but only to a limited degree. After all, no one expects you to sit on your hands for the duration of your video interview, so it would be strange if you didn't make a few gestures. If you're worried about moving your hands too much during the interview, you can always prepare beforehand to ensure that your feelings are held to a minimum.

1. Good eye contact

During every interview, but particularly a video interview, it is important to look directly at your interviewer. The problem is that some job seekers will find it difficult to know where to look during the interview while speaking.

Instead of looking at your computer screen, make it a point to look straight into the camera. Looking at yourself on the screen indicates that your eyes are elsewhere, which can make the interviewer feel uncomfortable. In the same way that you will look directly at the interviewer during an in-person interview and not to the left or right, you can do so during a video interview. You'll make a stronger bond.

1. Nod when necessary

You don't want to startle the interviewer by saying, "That sounds fantastic!" when they're explaining the business culture to you This is where the art of nodding comes into play. When your interviewer speaks, nod. This establishes a bond between you and demonstrates that you're paying attention to what they're saying.

Although nodding occasionally during your video interview is acceptable, nodding so often that you get a headache is not. So be careful with your nods; do them often enough to show that you understand what your interviewer is saying, but not so much that you seem comical or unauthentic.

1. Smile genuinely

Smiling, of course, is an excellent way to convey friendliness and approachability. When people attempt to force a smile, it can come off as artificial, which can be a major turn-off for a prospective employer. So, when it feels good, smile during your work interview. It has been shown that smiling when speaking makes you sound friendlier and gives your voice a more upbeat tone. Smile and laugh if the interviewer mentions something amusing!

During a video interview, being mindful of your body language will make the difference between coming across as a confident or anxious candidate. To show off your best body language and let your skills and expertise shine, follow these tips.

1. Fidget Control

All of the other body language strategies, if you're anything like me, are a breeze, but removing fidgets can seem difficult. Fidgets can seem insignificant, but they are irritating to your interviewer and effectively scream "I'm uncomfortable! Though you won't be able to sit on your hands, you should try to limit your fidgeting. Granted, this is a difficult task because even the pen you use to take notes will easily become a toy. The trick is to retain self-awareness, and note that with a video interview, you are in control of your surroundings!

Conclusion

Learning body language for video interviews makes the interview process more informative for those looking to add to their team. Post Covid-19 most of the companies conducting virtual interviews. These are the main tips that should follow during the video interviews.