The Indian hospitality sector has been evolving rapidly in recent years. With the growing influence of technology, interviews have become a standard part of the recruitment process for many hotel chains, boutique properties, and restaurant groups. In particular, Indian hotel job scenarios, where properties span vast geographies, have made remote hiring through video interviews both a necessity and a convenience. 

Whether you are an experienced chef, a front desk associate, or a housekeeping supervisor, your ability to present yourself well in a video interview can make or break your opportunity. Unlike traditional face-to-face interviews, video interviews not only require professional knowledge and expertise but also technological preparedness and a subtle understanding of virtual reality. 

With Fodism Connect, in this blog, we will walk you through hospitality tips that will help you ace your video interview and secure that coveted hotel job in India or abroad. Here’s everything you need to know to make a stellar virtual impression— 

Understanding The Nature Of Remote Hiring

Before we consider the tips and tricks to ace a video interview, let’s understand why remote hiring is rising in the hospitality industry. As the sector operates non-stop for 24/7 across multiple time zones and cities. Video interview makes it flexible for the employers and the candidates. This keeps no bar of place - hiring can be done from anywhere without incurring travel expenses and delays. 

In India’s hospitality market spans major metros, tourist hubs, and pilgrimage towns, video interviews have democratized access to opportunities. If you're applying for a hotel job in India from another state or region, chances are high that your first interaction will be virtual.

Prepare As If It’s an in-person interview.

Just because you are not physically present in the room for the interview does not mean you will treat the video interview casually. This is similar to the professionalism required for in-person interviews. We know that the first impression is the last impression, and hospitality starts with an impression! So, 

• Wear formal attire. If you are a chef, wear the chef coat, or if you are the front desk staff, go for a crisp shirt and blazer. 
• Before you jump in for the interview, take your time to learn about the property you have applied for. Research the hotel’s brand, its core values, recent awards, and service innovations, if any. Utilize this knowledge during the interview to demonstrate your genuine interest. 
• Be ready to discuss any part of your resume fluently; it seems that you have mentioned something just to show! Expect questions like “Tell me about your most challenging guest experience.” or “How do you handle customer complaints?”

Set the Scene: Background, Lighting, and Tech Setup

Let your physical setup speak volumes about your attention to detail! It is something that highly matters in the hospitality industry. Consider these hospitality tips for technical prep to go a long way - 

• Choose a quiet and unobtrusive space. A plain wall, a tidy room work best. Avoid noisy places or poorly lit spaces. 
• Face a light source like a lamp or a window; avoid overhead lights that cast shadows, or backlighting can make you appear dark. 
• Camera angle again is something which is significant; keep it at eye level. If required, stack books or use a tripod, if you have one! 
• Checking the internet connection and network before the interview is important. Test your Wi-Fi connection before the interview begins, and make sure your audio is clear. 

Pro tip: You can record a mock video interview to spot such issues. 

Master Your Body Language

The hospitality world is about your personality and body language as it reflects confidence, empathy, and service-mindedness. A warm smile with an upright posture creates a positive presence. Here is how you can master it even through your video interview— 

• Sit in a comfortable chair; do not slouch. 
• Maintain eye contact—look at the webcam and not the screen while you speak. 
• Smile naturally and nod when appreciated to show engagement. Avoid a constant smiling face!
• Use your hands subtly when explaining ideas; avoid overdo. 

Body language is one of the most underestimated parts of a video interview, mainly in Indian hotel job scenarios. We know guest interaction is the key! Ensuring that you showcase your ability to look approachable and composed can set you apart. 

Highlight Soft Skills with Real Examples

The hospitality world heavily relies on one’s soft skills - communication, teamwork, problem-solving and time management. Thus, you need to use your real-life scenarios as examples. Like - 

• “We were at peak during Diwali in my last hotel; we had a staff shortage, and I coordinated with my housekeeping and kitchen team to ensure smooth check-ins without delays.” This taught me quick decision-making under pressure. 

Remember that recruiters look for team players who can blossom in a dynamic environment. So, keep your tone enthusiastic and articulate.

Be Ready for Common Video Interview Questions

Often,  hotel recruiters stick to structured questions, and a few of them are - 

• Why do you want to take up this job? 
• Describe a time when you handled a difficult situation.
• How do you prioritize your tasks under pressure?
• What is great service, according to you?
• Where do you see yourself in the next five years down the line? 

Remember not to expand your responses too much, keep them crisp and story-based for each. Follow the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, and Result to organize your thoughts. 

Ask Thoughtful Questions

To make your video interview great with a two-way conversation, prepare a few smart questions to ask the interviewer. 

• What growth opportunities exist for this role?
• Is there any upskilling program or team handles training during the remote onboarding? 

Asking such questions would showcase your unpretentious interest in the particular job role and set you apart as a well-informed candidate. 

To ace your video interview involves not only treating virtual space with the same level of enthusiasm and professionalism but also being prepared for the same. Whether you’re aiming for a role in a luxury resort or a rapidly growing hotel brand, these hospitality tips can help you excel. Take the time to practise, prepare your tech setup, and present your best self. After all, hospitality isn’t just about service - it’s about presence. 

Join Foodism Connect today! Create your profile and get discovered by top hotels and restaurants. Whether you're preparing for your next video interview or exploring new opportunities in the hotel job market, Foodism Connect is your ultimate gateway!