In pandemic times, video interviews will be the go-to for many nursing and midwifery recruiters. It’s a potentially strange situation, but here are The Lamp’s top 5 tips for making it as stress-free as possible.

1. Pick a good location and background

They say in real estate it’s “location, location, location”. It’s the same for your video interview!

Make sure that your location for the video interview shows off the best parts of you, rather than detracting from what you’re saying. That means having a clear background (a plain or professional wall does fine), rather than having a cluttered wall or messy room just over your shoulder.

Also check out the lighting. Ideally, lighting should be just behind your camera. Natural lighting is best, but we know that isn’t always possible. Try out different options, including room lighting or artificial lighting (like lamps).

Remember that you want the location to be as distraction-free as possible. A quiet space is best, where you can lock yourself away from stray pets, partners or children. If that’s not possible at home, some libraries or universities may have spaces you can rent out for this purpose.

2. Test your equipment

There is nothing worse than having your equipment fail on you as you conduct your new grad interview. Blurry vision or unintelligible audio really affect what the interviewers see – as well as how you perform.

Make sure you test out your equipment prior to your interview. That includes both your camera and microphone. If your equipment isn’t up to scratch, consider buying or borrowing some new equipment for your interview.

It might also be worthwhile testing how your equipment comes across to another person on the other side of a stream. Ask a friend to conduct a video conference with you, and see how well your gear performs in those conditions.

3. Plug in your internet

Another potential downer for interviews is your internet cutting off. Wi-Fi is notoriously fickle, and even hotspotting can be risky. Consider plugging in to the internet rather than relying on wireless for your interview, to save yourself a little bit of pain during the event itself.

4. Get familiar with the streaming service

Ever had calls that have started with a cacophony of “hellos”, or been embarrassed by someone who didn’t know what a “break out room” was? You don’t want to be that interviewee, particularly during your new grad interview.

Before your interview, make sure you ascertain what program your interviewer will be using – they may choose to use Zoom, Skype, Google Hangouts or something else. Visit the platform beforehand, and even consider conducting a mock interview with a friend prior.

5. Have your outfit ready

While your outfit may mean a little bit less on a video interview, it’s another thing that you should consider so that you’re not rushing around having to deal with it on the day. You’ll have plenty of things to deal with as it stands, so if you can have your get-up hanging in your room the night prior, it should put you in good stead.

Now it’s your turn to go and ace that interview! If you need any more support, NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association members can call 02 8595 1234. If you’re not yet a member, you can also sign up here.

And if you’re lucky enough to receive a placement, check out the amazing Student to New Grad webinars, offered by the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association.