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6 Body Language Tips for Mastering Video Interviews

Posted by: Karen Booher on August 15th, 2020

Zoom and other video platforms have become a part of our everyday lives in recent months. And, while we may have mastered turning our video and audio on, we still need to be aware of the virtual impression that we make with our body language. This holds true whether you are the interviewer or the interviewee.

The ability to connect with the person(s) on the other side of the computer is key. It is more difficult to make a good connection with a video interview than an in-person interview, so the better you can communicate – nonverbally – the better impression you will make. It could be the difference in attracting that top candidate or securing your next interview.

Here are 6 body language tips to keep in mind while in a virtual, video interview.

  1. Look at the Camera. It’s easy to forget that when you look at the face of the person you are talking to, you are not looking at them in the eyes from their viewpoint. From their perspective, you will most likely be looking down. So, it’s important to remember that in order for you to make eye contact with them you need to look at the camera – not their eyes. It’s tricky though because, by looking at the camera, you can’t see their facial expressions. So, it’s a good idea to do some of both, but the more you can look into the camera, the better impression you will make.
  2. Pay Attention to Your Posture. As not much of your body is shown in a video interview outside of your upper half, maintaining good posture will change how you come across. Be sure to sit up straight in a chair rather than slouching on the couch. This will show that you are alert, engaged, and paying attention to what the other party is saying.
  3. Lean Forward. While the other person is speaking, lean forward slightly toward the camera. This will show that you’re interested in what they have to say and are actively listening to them. But keep an adequate distance, about an arm’s length, away from the camera to ensure the video quality doesn’t suffer.
  4. Don’t Make Too Many Gestures. If you really need to make a gesture to get your point across, you should do so, but don’t make them too frequently. On video platforms, gestures can take up a lot of the camera and become distracting.
  5. Don’t Cross Your Arms. Crossing your arms, while it may be comfortable, can be misinterpreted that you’re unhappy, disinterested, or otherwise in a bad mood. If you do this as an employer, this could signal to the candidate that the interview isn’t going well or that you wouldn’t be agreeable to work for. As a candidate, you risk appearing as though you’re not interested in the opportunity, or are bored or even defiant. Be sure to keep your arms relaxed at your sides, or resting on your lap.
  6. Nod and Smile. Keeping a pleasant expression and acknowledging the other person as they speak will win you points in their favor. But don’t overdo it. These gestures mean nothing if they appear to be not genuine.

Good luck!


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