Top Ten Tips for Digital/Video Interviews

Before the interview

1. Find the right location where you feel comfortable
The last thing you want is a noisy background, or a location with lots of people walking into the shot. Find a quiet, well-lit room, with no distractions. A white wall as a background can also help.

2. Test your audio, video and internet connection
This may sound obvious but always test your set up before you get started. Often you’ll have the chance to prerecord a video before the official interview starts, but there’s no harm in testing on your laptops local webcam programme.

3. Get comfortable both looking at the camera, and talking to the camera
Off the back of the last point, make sure you practice actually speaking to the laptop so you don’t appear awkward in the real interview. Look at the camera and not the screen, making sure the laptops camera is at eye-level not above or below you. Practice introducing yourself, and rewatch the video as uncomfortable as it may be! Or even better; make use of the Cardiff Award’s mock digital interview service “Launchpad”.

4. Prepare sample answers
Think of examples from previous experiences where you’ve demonstrated certain skills. For example, times where you’ve successfully worked in a team, or a time where you’ve had a confrontation with a colleague. Make sure the examples always end positively. Don’t script the answers, but be ready to give well-told examples.

5. Research the company and role
Think about the industry you are applying to and research around it. What exciting things are happening in the industry and what trends are just around the corner? Make sure you know the company well enough that you could teach somebody else about it. Understand the role offered and be able to articulate what skills are needed to succeed in it.

During the Interview

6. Dress as if you were attending a face-to-face interview
Looking professional will leave a good impression on the recruiter, even if you’re not meeting them face-to-face. Dressing smartly can also help make you feel mentally prepared and professional during the interview.

7. Relax
It may be hard, but make sure you’re feeling relaxed and act as natural as possible. If something unexpected happens, or you lose your track – stay calm and try and not become flustered. Having a glass of water handy can help – you’ll be talking lots, and this can help put you at ease in between the questions. Having notes nearby can also help, but don’t stare at these whilst answering!

8. Remember we’re all human
You may not physically speak to a human in digital interviews, but they’ll be reviewed by real recruiters. The individuals watching your videos are human too and simply want to find the best candidate for the job. Messing up one question won’t necessarily mean you ruin the whole interview.

9. Use your body language – smile
Of course speaking clearly is important, but your body can also be used to communicate effectively. Positive body language will stand out on a candidate. Remember to smile! Although it may not feel natural, try and be engaged and be engaging.

10. Be honest and be yourself
Let your true personality and talent shine through. Be positive and confident, but not arrogant. Recruiters want to see the real you.

If you are successful at this stage you will be inviting to a final assessment centre where we will see how you work collaboratively with other people & make a decision on whether you are ready to pursue a degree apprenticeship at Capgemini.