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Corporate Video Interviews—What to Expect?

By August 17, 2017September 13th, 2023No Comments

A lot of people seem to think that filming a corporate interview is about as intimidating as a job interview. You’re expected to dress well, be articulate, exude confidence, and demonstrate exceptional knowledge of your industry and role—all before the all-seeing eye of the camera.

Sure, it’s a bit nerve-wracking, especially if public speaking isn’t your cup of tea. It certainly doesn’t help people with public speaking nerves to have a whole video crew watching them begin sentences that can’t find their way to the end.

Unlike a conventional job interview, however, corporate video interviews having a whole team of people looking out for them and making sure they nail it.  We here at 336, are all standing behind the person sitting in the “hot seat,” making sure they look and sound great!

As our client’s production company, we provide all interviewees with comprehensive guidelines to ensure that the experience is comfortable, easy, and, yes, even fun!

The Fundamentals

If we had to compare a corporate interview to a job interview, it would probably be the kind where you know exactly what to expect, how to respond, and know that job’s already yours!

Of course, this doesn’t mean you won’t do your part to look good.

As an experienced video production company in Orange County, we’ve worked with some of the biggest names in business to produce award-winning corporate videos. Here are a few pointers we give all our clients before shooting a corporate interview:

What to Bring

 

We’ve all heard terrifying stories about the camera being your worst enemy—adding 5 pounds to your face and all that jazz.

As producers and directors, know that it is in our best interest to make sure you look your absolute best.

This is why we recommend that you bring the following essentials:

  • A change of clothes in case you had a clumsy moment (we’ve all been there)!
  • Your laptop, tablet, or book to entertain yourself during set-ups or delays.
  • A makeup kit and anti-shine wipes.
  • Your favorite coffee or tea drink (we’ll provide water, but it’s nice to have your favorite beverage on hand).

What to Wear

You can nail the tone and deliver the greatest lines—but if your outfit isn’t comfortable and doesn’t look good, you can bet your interview will be cringier than the rooftop scene from The Room.

One of the best ways to look great on cam is to be 100% comfortable, starting with wearing your best smile, then moving onto your most comfortable, flattering, stylish outfit. We recommend avoiding all-white outfits, uncomfortable shoes, and loud jewelry (for obvious reasons). We also ask clients to avoid clothing with logos for legal issues.

What to Say

You’ll receive a list of questions prior to the shoot, so you’ll have ample time to prepare your answers and maybe even rehearse your lines.

At the end of the day, however, it’s an interview; not a movie. Your lines aren’t set in stone, and you have complete liberty to speak from the heart. In fact, that’s one sure-fire way to remain confident and make a solid impression on cam!

It’s easy to forget that you’re speaking to your viewers when there’s really no one in the room besides the crew.

Make an effort to maintain consistent eye contact with the camera (or producer depending on where the director wants you to look), be engaging and interesting, and don’t be afraid to show you know your stuff!

If, at any point, you stutter or lose your train of thought, it won’t make it to the final cut—so take your time, relax and go with the flow!

Have a question or concern? Feel free to ask us—we’re here to help!

For more information on corporate video production, call us at (888) 440-5830 or check out some of our work for ideas and inspiration!

  • Marlowe Stone

    "Marlowe Stone is the co-owner and co-founder of 336 Productions, a video agency specializing in corporate video production and branded media, producing content for government agencies and some of the world's biggest brands. She oversees the day-to-day operations of the business. Additionally, she writes, produces, and project manages many of 336's projects. In 2022, Marlowe graduated with her Executive MBA from UCI to gain new insights and knowledge. She also holds a certificate in Women's Leadership and Digital Transformation. An Orange County native and mom to two girls, Marlowe is happiest when spending time with her family and friends."