Being interviewed for a corporate video can be quite a daunting task.
It can be uncomfortable being in front of a regular camera, but when you’ve got a large crew with bright lights, big cameras, and lots of microphones; nerves can suddenly come racing to the surface.
It’s only natural to feel this way. You’d be surprised how many people we interview who can speak in front of hundreds of people, but then crumble when they’re in front of a camera.
So what can you do to prepare for your corporate video interview?
So here are our top tips to help you look great in your next corporate interview.
WHY YOU SHOULD GRAB THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE ON CAMERA
Although it may seem daunting, speaking on camera, especially in a professional or corporate setting, offers several significant benefits that can positively impact your career.
Boost Your Visibility & Personal Brand
Being featured in a corporate video puts you in front of a wider audience, including colleagues, industry peers, and potential clients. It’s a chance to showcase your expertise and personality.
Speaking on camera helps establish you as a thought leader or a key player in your field. It strengthens your personal brand and makes you more memorable.
Being chosen to represent your company or share insights on video positions you as someone with valuable knowledge and experience. This can lead to more opportunities within and outside your organisation.
HOW TO PREPARE
Understand the Purpose
Get clear on the key message or story the video is trying to convey and understand your role in delivering that message.
Also consider who the target audience is and how the video will be used (e.g., on the company website, social media, internal communications).
Prepare Your Talking Points
Key Themes: Identify the main points you want to communicate clearly. This could include the company’s values, a product’s benefits, or a success story.
Don’t Try & Memorise Lines: Trying to memorise and recall the perfect answer can make you sound scripted and unnatural. It’s also a lot harder than just answering a question naturally.
Keep It Simple: Avoid jargon unless it’s appropriate for the audience. Focus on being clear and concise.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Setting and Format
Professional Setup: The interview will likely be conducted in a professional setting with cameras, lights, and a crew. Be prepared for multiple takes.
Interview Style: It might be a sit-down interview, or you might be asked to speak directly to the camera. The interviewer might prompt you with questions or just ask you to deliver prepared statements.
Technical Aspects: Expect some guidance on where to look, how to position yourself, and any adjustments to your posture or delivery.
Appearance
Dress Appropriately: Wear something professional that aligns with your company’s brand and the tone of the video.
Camera-Ready: Consider makeup or grooming to ensure you look polished on camera. Avoid shiny, reflective clothing or anything with pinstripes or fine dots.
DURING THE INTERVIEW
Pace Yourself: Speak slowly and clearly. It’s okay to pause and collect your thoughts if needed.
Be Yourself: Authenticity resonates well on camera. It’s fine to smile, show enthusiasm, and let your personality shine through.
Ignore the Camera: Focus on the interviewer or the person you’re talking to, rather than the camera, to make it feel more natural.
…AND REMEMBER…
The video crew are there to make sure that you look and sound the best you possibly can.
It’s in their interest to make your interview look and sound amazing, so they will be on your side to help you come across really well.
By preparing thoroughly, understanding what to expect, and using techniques to stay calm, you can make a strong impression in your corporate video interview.