online job interview HireVue

Image: Adobe Stock

Job hunting: Six tips to ace that online interview on HireVue

Looking to start your career? Here’s how to record a clear and effective HireVue video so that you shine in your virtual interview.

online job interview HireVue

Image: Adobe Stock

HireVue is a virtual interview service that has become more popular since the lockdown and the application allows companies to conduct video-based interviews for potential candidates.

It gives both parties the flexibility of time and place as they do not have the be in the same place for the interview, or even record the interview at the same time.

The service has been around for quite a while but has become a more popular alternative during the pandemic. Several South African companies are opting for this instead of in-person interviews.

How does HireVue Work?

A potential employer will set up questions with HireVue and then potential candidates will answer.

Typically, the employer will give you 30 seconds to prepare for each question and three minutes to answer. All candidates answer the same questions.

HireVue may also include multiple choice questions and thought-provoking games that test your knowledge.

Tips to using HireVue

Set up your device

HireVue is an application so you can take your interview through either your smartphone or your computer.

The application will need access to your device’s camera and speaker in order to see and hear you. Ensure you have enough data because the videos have to be uploaded and you do not want anything interrupting this process.

Set up an interview space

Make sure you are in a well-lit environment. Try to get direct sunlight on you, rather than behind you. Light behind you may lead to the reviewer not being able to see you clearly and this may affect your application process.

A quiet space with no distractions is just as important as the lighting. If your family is around, let them know you need quiet time for your interview.

Turn off the television, radio or anything else that may be a distraction. Give your interview your undivided attention.

Wear business-like clothes

Dress as if you are attending an actual interview because it is an actual interview.

Anything virtual tends to make people feel like they can “dress-down” but you need to remain professional. A smart outfit shows recruiters that you are taking this seriously.

Therefore dress formally so that you look tidy and well-groomed and also make sure your nails are clean and your hair is neat.

Lastly, don’t forget to smile, it makes such a difference!

Practise first

Before getting into answering your questions, HireVue gives you the option to practise.

Do not be impatient and let this opportunity slip past you. Practise as many times as you need to become comfortable in front of the camera and at ease with your words.

It is also important to go over common interview questions because companies tend to keep the first interview more general so you are likely to be well prepared by browsing through the frequently asked interview questions.

Do your research

You should read up on the company before the interview. You need to know exactly where and how you may be able to fit into the company.

Background research also will make answering the questions easier, as you will have an idea of what the company is looking for. The company will also appreciate your effort.

Show personality

Contrary to in-person interviews, virtual interviews tend to be a little more “calm” for the candidate. A video-recorded interviews can be much easier as you do not have anyone watching you answer “live”.

This should make you less nervous and more able to focus on answering questions to the best of your ability.

It also opens up a different opportunity for you to show your personality, which may otherwise have been lost due to typical interview nerves and anxiety.

Use this to your advantage, be yourself, smile often and be polite. Either at the start of end of the interview, thank the reviewers for their time.

Tips for HireVue Games

The games seem simple at first but make sure you read the instructions.

Also, be wary of the time limit that is set.

The games test your memory and your math skills so you will need to pay undivided attention.