As companies around the world are increasingly relying on remote interviews, video interviewing has become more common. Especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, video interviews have become the norm for many organizations, as they allow for safe and efficient hiring processes.
If you’re applying for a job in Germany, you may find that the interview process is different from what you’re used to. Understanding these differences can help you feel more confident and prepared for the interview.
In this blog post, we will provide some tips and insights to help you navigate the German video interview process successfully.
Tips for successfull video interviewing in Germany
The following is an overview of what you need to do to have a successfull video interview:
- Expect a formal interview
- Be punctual and prepared
- Dress professionally
- Test your connection and equipment
- Choose your background
- Use eye contact
- Follow up after the interview
Let’s take a closer look.
Expect a formal interview
The interview process in Germany is often more structured and formal than in other countries. You may be required to participate in multiple rounds of interviews and discuss your qualifications and experience in great detail. It is important to be prepared for this level of scrutiny and to take the interview seriously. During the interview, be prepared to engage in a two-way conversation with the interviewer. Asking good questions about the company and the job position will show your interest and engagement.
Be punctual and prepared
Germans value punctuality and preparedness, so it is important to be on time (or better 5 minutes earlier) for your video interview and to bring copies of your resume and any other relevant documents to your desk. It’s also a good idea to research the company and the position beforehand so you can ask informed questions during the interview. Also, make sure to bring a paper and pen so you can take notes on the important information. This way you will appear more interested and attentive.
Dress professionally
While it may be tempting to dress casually for a video interview, dressing professionally is crucial to making a good first impression. Dressing professionally will not only help you feel confident, but it will also show the employer that you take the interview seriously. When selecting your outfit, it’s essential to choose clothing that is appropriate for the job and industry you are applying to. In Germany, business attire is typically expected, even for video interviews.
Test your connection and equipment
Before the interview, test your equipment to make sure everything is working correctly. Check your camera, microphone, and internet connection. Use the same software and equipment that you will use for the interview. This will help you identify and troubleshoot any potential problems before the interview. You can ask a friend or family member to do a test call with you to check your equipment. Also, test your lighting to ensure your face is well-lit and visible on camera. Whenever possible, sit facing the window or a desk lamp to ensure your face is well illuminated and clearly visible.
Choose your background
Choose a quiet and well-lit space for your interview. Try to choose a location where you can avoid interruptions from family members, pets, or roommates. A cluttered or messy background can be distracting, so choose a simple and clean background with only few personal elements for your video interview. Make sure that you turn off your phone or any other devices that could cause a distraction during the interview.
Use eye contact
During the video interview, it’s important to make eye contact with the interviewer to establish a connection. Look directly into the camera when speaking, rather than at your own image on the screen. This will help you appear more engaged and interested in the conversation. While it’s important to make eye contact, be sure to avoid staring at the camera for long periods of time. This can come across as awkward or intense. Instead, make natural eye contact as you would during an in-person conversation.
Follow up after the interview
After your video interview, it’s important to follow up with the employer to express your continued interest in the position. Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview to show your appreciation for the opportunity. Use this email to reiterate your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. This will help you stand out from other candidates and show the employer that you are serious about the job. While it’s important to express your gratitude and interest in the position, keep your email brief and to the point. Avoid repeating information that was already discussed during the interview.
Conclusion: Successful video interviews in Germany
In conclusion, the German video interview process may differ from what you’re used to, but with preparation and attention to detail, you can navigate it successfully. Be prepared for a structured and formal interview process and engage in a two-way conversation with the interviewer. Remember to arrive punctually, dress professionally, and test your equipment beforehand. Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a clean background and use eye contact to establish a connection with the interviewer. Finally, follow up with a thank-you email to express your interest and reiterate your qualifications for the position. By following these tips, you can present yourself as a confident, prepared, and professional candidate for the job.
Do you want to have more interviews with German companies? Check out our Masterclass, a step-by-step guide how to get invited to interviews, including real advise from true recruiters in Germany.
