An HR teams using video assessment interviews to assess a candidate

Candidate Advice

8 Things Candidates Need to Know Before Conducting a Video Assessment Interview

November 6, 2022

Tima Rassool

Tima Rassool

Content Writer

It’s not hard to see why video assessment interviews have become a pillar of the modern workplace. This is because it offers an efficient and convenient way to evaluate a candidate’s qualifications without having to sacrifice time or resources.

Also, with the ability to filter through candidates at scale, it’s no wonder that so many companies are turning to video interviews as a first step in the recruitment process.

For candidates, however, video interviews can be a nerve-wracking experience. In addition to the usual jitters that come with any interview, there are a whole host of new challenges that come with being on camera. From technical difficulties to awkward silences, it’s easy to see how things can go wrong.

Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do to set yourself up for success. One way to make sure you put your best foot forward is by conducting yourself in a professional manner. This means following some basic etiquette rules. What are the etiquette rules to follow as a candidate?

Wondering how? We got you covered! 

Here are 8 important things candidates should know before conducting video assessment interviews:

1. Get Rid Of Any Distractions

A recruiter assessing candidates with video assessment interview.

The first step is ensuring you are in a quiet and distraction-free environment. This means turning off your phone, putting away any papers or books, and closing any windows or doors that might cause a noise disturbance during video assessment interviews.

You want the interviewer to be able to focus on what you’re saying, not what’s going on around you. This is also a good time to ensure your computer or device is in a comfortable position—you don’t want the interviewer to be distracted by your fidgeting or uncomfortable posture.

2. Dress the Part

a recruiter happy to use video assessment interview.

Even though you’re not meeting in person, it’s essential to dress for the occasion. This shows that you respect the interview and are taking it seriously. So choose professional clothing that you would feel comfortable wearing to an in-person interview.

In addition, there is nothing wrong with dressing to reflect your personality or impress. This can be a good way to make a lasting impression on the interviewer when undergoing video assessment interviews.

4. Do A Test Run

A picture showing hand holding a mobile phone showing a female candidate

Before the video assessment interviews, it’s a good idea to do a test run of your technology. Make sure your camera and microphone are working correctly. This is also a good time to check your internet connection to make sure nothing goes wrong during the video assessment interviews.

It will not be okay if your connection suddenly disconnects in the middle of the interview. This will not only disrupt the flow of the conversation but also make you look unprofessional.

5. Speak Clearly & Slow Down

HR manager assessing a male candidate with video assessment interviews

When you’re nervous, it’s easy to speak quickly or mumble your words. But speaking slowly and clearly during the video assessment interviews is essential. This will help the interviewer understand you and also make a good impression.

If you need to, take a deep breath before answering questions. This will help you relax and slow down your speech.

6. Be Prepared

A female recruiter during video assessment interviews

One of the best things you can do to prepare for an interview is to practice your answers to common interview questions. This will help you feel more confident and less nervous during the actual interview.

It’s also a good idea to have a list of questions prepared to ask the interviewer. This shows that you’re interested in the position and want to know more about the company.

7. Listen Carefully

A picture of a female candidate undergoing video assessment interviews via laptop

It’s essential to listen carefully to the interviewer’s questions during a video assessment interview and give thoughtful answers. This shows that you’re engaged in the conversation and interested in what they say.

If you need clarification on what the question is, ask for clarification. And if you need a moment to think about your answer, that’s perfectly okay. Just let the interviewer know that you’re taking a moment to gather your thoughts.

8. Have A Positive Attitude

A female candidate showing positive attitude during video assessment interviews

Your attitude is one of the first things the interviewer will notice, so it’s essential to ensure you come across as positive and enthusiastic. This means you can be over-the-top and fake your feelings. Just be yourself and let your positive attitude shine through.

Here are some negative attitudes to avoid:

  • Being rude
  • Fidgeting
  • Checking your phone
  • Having a bad attitude
  • Being unprepared
  • Interrupting
  • Talking too much
  • Not making eye contact
  • Slouching
  • Chewing gum
  • Being late
  • Not sending a thank you note
  • Dressing inappropriately
  • Bad posture

Wrapping Up

A video assessment interview is a great opportunity for you to showcase your skills and unleash your full potential! By following these real tips you can make a great first impression and land the job you want. We wish you the best of luck!

EVA-SSESS is a next-generation video interviewing software that enables businesses to pinpoint top talent and build diverse workforces fast. It uses modern science and AI to help you identify top performers in a fraction of the time – through unbiased, reliable, and secure video assessment interviews that save more than 90% of your time. 250+ companies across the world rely on EVA-SSESS to build customizable assessments, get scientifically-validated personality reports, detect ideal keywords, rank applicants, filter out correct answers, eliminate guesswork, and easily assess the skills that are tough to measure.

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Author

Tima Rassool

Tima Rassool

A wordsmith, storyteller, and content strategist – Tima is an MBA graduate with 6+ years of experience in the world of HR. With over 2,000 blogs under her belt, Tima's expertise and insights have helped businesses across the globe take their recruitment to the next level and stay ahead of the curve.

Turn top talent to employees fast

Hire, assess, onboard and manage top talent for every job. See how Elevatus streamlines everything; from acquire to new hire.

Request a demo