8 video interview questions to land your next real estate or placemaking job
Despite the Covid-19 pandemic and its versatile effects on the economy, the real estate market is booming. This has led to the opening of many more lucrative opportunities for people who want to get into real estate or placemaking. After all, regardless of the current circumstances, people will always need a place to live, work and relax.
As you probably know by now, getting a job today is very different from how things were two years ago. Video interviews are the new industry standard rather than face-to-face interviews conducted on official company premises. Carrying out interviews over the internet is now seen as a more efficient and safer way to vet candidates, which is why understanding the video interview questions you are most likely to be asked beforehand is very important.
So, if you’ve been looking to make a major change in your life but you feel nervous about an upcoming video interview, you’ve come to the right place. Check out Foundation Recruitment’s video interview tips and set yourself up for success.
How should you prepare for video interviews?
- Choose the right background
As these interviews will usually have you sitting in front of your home computer or laptop, you have to ensure that your video interview background is neat and presentable. Make sure to remove background objects that might distract the interviewer or aren’t particularly appropriate to see.
It’s essential to look professional and organised during your interview, which means tidying up the space behind you. And if you happen to use a video call software that allows you to choose a background, make sure to select a simple and professional one; blurring out your surroundings or bookcases have proved very popular.
- Wear appropriate attire
This is probably one of the most important video call interview tips that you need to get right. Those who work in real estate need to look presentable and professional at all times. One of the best times to dress like you mean business is during your interview. So, when getting ready for a video interview, make sure to choose a simple, yet professional outfit.
It’s best to treat video interviews in the same way as face-to-face interviews, so choose something you’d wear if you were going to a face-to-face interview.
What video interview questions should you expect?
No matter what interview you’re going to, it’s best to be ready to answer all of the questions that your interviewer has prepared for you.
Despite being a different format, video interviews usually have the same questions as face-to-face interviews which you can prepare in advance. Some of the most common questions to expect are:
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
- What is your ideal work environment?
- What do you know about the company?
- What are your strengths?
- Describe your work ethic.
- What is your greatest accomplishment?
- Why should we hire you?
- Why are you leaving your current role?
Keep in mind that these are just some of the most common questions but by no means an exhaustive list, so make sure to do some more research before the day of your interview.
How long is a video interview?
Video interviews are just like regular job interviews. You will usually be given one to two minutes to describe yourself and why you’re worthy of the position. And while every employer has a different strategy and timeframe for their interviews, you can expect your interview to last between 30 minutes to an hour.
Pre-recorded video interview tips
Imagine you’re talking to a real person
A pre-recorded interview usually consists of a video with all the questions a regular interviewer would have asked you. After watching the video or reading the questions, interviewees have a set amount of time to record their answers to those questions and send over a recording of their answers.
When answering, stay calm and speak like you are talking to a normal person. This will make you sound a lot more relaxed and confident.
Read the questions carefully
If the questions are given to you in a written format, make sure to read them very carefully. Don’t be afraid to go over them multiple times to ensure that you fully understand the question.
This way, you can form an appropriate answer that highlights your key strengths suited to the question and nothing more.
Use practice questions
Some interviews will have practice questions. These give you an idea of how the interview will go and give you the opportunity to test out answers, you can always change or revise answers before submission.
Don’t rush!
While you are usually given a set amount of time to answer the questions, make sure not to rush. You will probably have more time than you think, so make sure to relax and answer the questions thoroughly and accurately.
Video job interview tips:
Test the tech
Before your interview, it’s essential to test out the interviewing software, your device, and your internet connection. This will help you avoid technical difficulties and allow for a much smoother interview overall.
Charge your device
Having your laptop battery die during an interview can have serious consequences. If there is a charger and outlet available in your interview space, keep it plugged in during the interview. If you can’t leave your device charging during the interview, it’s best to make sure you have a full battery before the call happens.
Choose the right spot
We mentioned this earlier, but it is imperative with live video call interviews to make sure you’re in a space with minimal distractions, neat and presentable background, and a stable internet connection.
Maintain good eye contact
Maintaining eye contact is much harder with video interviews than face-to-face ones. However, the best technique is to look straight into the webcam and not at your face on the corner of the screen. This allows you to be more focused and appear more engaging to the interviewer.
How can foundation recruitment increase the chances of landing your next job?
At Foundation Recruitment, we are committed to supporting our candidates through every step of the job-seeking process. This includes matching you to the ideal role based on your goals, skills, aspirations, and personal circumstances. Our services also include:
- CV advice
- Interview preparation and coaching
- Interview feedback
- Conduct salary and contractual negotiations on your behalf
So, if you’ve been looking to start a new career for yourself, Foundation Recruitment can guide you through the entire job-seeking process. Register with us and start your journey today!