More and more companies are placing video interviews on their websites. So, chances are sooner or later you may end up on the interview side of a video, especially if you are a thought leader or executive in your company.
If this sounds like the last thing you want to be doing, you are not alone. Many people, even great public speakers, hate being recorded on video. Being on video is awkward for everyone.
It’s frustrating when you stumble over sentences and phrases that you’ve repeated effortlessly in speeches, elevators, and at events countless times. You’ll eventually ask yourself, “What’s wrong with me? I should know this.” Absolutely nothing is wrong with you.
Below are a few tips to prepare yourself for your next video interview. These will help you get over any frustrations and the anxiety of being on camera.
- Prepare your notes, but don’t over-prepare – You’ll end up making yourself nervous. Don’t try to recite word for word the answers you’ve typed up on a sheet of paper. It will sound unnatural. Instead review the questions and get a general idea of what you’d like to discuss, but let it flow naturally during the interview.
- Videos can be cut and edited – Don’t think that you have to get it right on the first take.
- Remember that you can also return to a question later, once you’ve warmed up – Sometimes the first questions need to be revisited because you were still getting the hang of it.
- Keep it conversational – Talk to the interviewer as if you were chatting at a networking event or even talking to a close colleague/friend.
- Sometimes you need to take a deep breath and grab a glass of water – Do this when you feel stuck with an answer, or you start to get caught up with overthinking what you’d like to say.
- Leave the paper on the table, don’t use it as a crutch – It’s not going to look good if you keep looking down at your answers on a sheet of paper and the sound of the paper crinkling may be picked up by the microphone.
- Dress comfortably – Wear what you would normally wear in a professional setting. Make sure to confirm with the video team if you will be filmed torso only or if you need to make sure your pants or skirt are pressed.
- Patterns are ok as long as they aren’t too tiny – Consult your video team for styling tips.
- Wear normal makeup + 10%
These tips should help you become more comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera. If you’re interested in creating a series of videos, Pinstripe can help you. We’re experienced with professional, high-quality production to make you look good enough to rise above the competition. Get in touch with us.
