Video interviews for a new job are on the increase, according to recruiting company Hays, with the world of work evolving in rapidly changing times.

Video interviews are incredibly useful, particularly in challenging times, according to Simon Lance, managing director at Hays China. They can also give candidates a “home” advantage, as they say in the world of sport.

But for some, the perceived lack of real interpersonal interaction during a video interview can be a cause for anxiety, Lance said. To impress a potential employer in a video interview, Hays advises job hunters to prepare everything in good time.

“Make sure you avoid any embarrassing technical difficulties by installing the necessary programs and software in good time — and that you also know what to do if it goes wrong,” he says. “Interviewers will likely have a busy schedule and won’t be very impressed if you have to keep re-dialling in.”

Job seekers should get comfortable with video, according to Hays’ research.

“It’s important that you’re comfortable looking into a camera and speaking into a microphone,” said Lance.

He also recommends making the interview format suit the applicant. “If you get stuck on a question, ask if you can move on and come back to this when you have gathered your thoughts.”

Remaining professional, staying relaxed and keeping calm will help with answering questions accurately, Hays said. And when it comes to confidence, body language is key, according to Lance.

Hays advises job seekers not to panic if the video interview is disrupted, the signal breaks up or the connection is lost.

“In this instance, it is usually best to restart the call. Quickly contact your interviewer to update them — they’ll understand it is out of your control, so try not to worry and keep your composure.”