More and more universities–from the best business schools to competitive undergraduate programs–are using a Kira video interview (also known as Kira Talent interviews) in their admissions process. We have seen them used by undergraduate programs in Canada, such as the University of Waterloo, and top MBA programs, such as INSEAD. The Kira video interview is often in addition to a traditional interview on Zoom.
Since these types of interviews are growing in importance, you want to make sure you are ready in case you have to do one. Here are our top 6 tips to help you nail the Kira interview.
But first…
What is a Kira video interview?
A Kira video interview is an online video interview. The Kira Talent platform allows applicants to log in, see random questions from a question bank, and record video answers.
Different universities take different approaches, but here’s what we’ve seen the most:
- A random question pops up on the screen. Something like “Tell us about a time you showed you were a leader.”
- You have 30 to 60 seconds to prepare your answer.
- The camera on your computer comes on automatically and records your response.
- You will have between 3 and 5 questions from a selection chosen by the university. No candidate has the exact same questions in this instance.
- Some universities have a video essay that is just one question and is the same for everyone.
Watch this video for more about the platform:
6 Tips to Help You Nail Your Kira Video Interview
1. Create quick notes for each of the following questions.
You may be asked almost anything because the questions come from a bank, but it is helpful if you have some ideas brewing.
- How do you work under pressure?
- Tell me about a time when you had many tasks you had to work on at the same time. How did you prioritize?
- Tell me about a time when you had to make a quick decision? What were the circumstances and what did you do?
- Describe an accomplishment that has given you the most satisfaction and why?
- Tell us something about yourself that we cannot find in your application.
- How would you describe yourself?
- Tell us about a person or an event that has been influential in your personal development.
- How do you think a close family member or friend would describe you?
- How would you define leadership?
- Tell me about a time when you went out of your way to help a colleague or a client.
- Do you think social responsibility should always take precedence over profit? Why or why not?
- Tell me about a time when you worked successfully as a part of a team.
- How would you explain Facebook to your grandma?
- Tell me about a time when you were the only person holding an idea you felt strongly about. How did you share your position? What was the outcome?
- Tell me about a time when you and another individual had to compromise to reach an agreement. How did you reach the agreement?
- What is the most #1 song played on your laptop?
Want more questions? Check out this HUGE list of sample Kira interview questions that we have compiled.
2. Pick 5 of the above questions and record yourself answering the question.
You can use the record function on zoom to do this easily. Be sure to check everything that you would for a video interview like lighting and background. You also want to check the way you speak for “ums” and “ahs” as well as clarity.
If you plan to record more questions, you can just use your phone and then move to zoom recording.
Watch the video each time and really scrutinize yourself:
- Can the lighting be better?
- Did you answer the question directly?
- Did you offer an example or additional explanation?
- How long was your answer? (Minutes and seconds count!)
- Did you use all the time allocated or did you stop with time left?
- Did your response get cut off (It shouldn’t!)
- Is there something you can mention that highlights your personality and values in addition to answering the question?
3. Use the prep time!
When recording the actual video interview, use the 30 to 60 second prep time to jot down 2 or 3 points that you will cover when you answer.
This alone will vastly improve the clarity of your answer.
It’s ok to have a blank piece of paper and a pen there to write the notes. Just a few quick words numbered from 1 to 3. Nothing fancy…nothing extensive. Just enough notes to keep you focused.
You want to have these ideas in mind so that you can start talking as soon as the camera starts recording.
4. Take a break.
If possible, take a small break between video questions to reset and regroup.
5. Remember what you covered in your essays.
Don’t retell the same stories or points. Also, don’t refer to the essays as in “I already mentioned this in essay 1.” They have already read the essays and if the question pops up again, it means this is important to them. So, answer it with a fresh approach.
6. You are preparing to get your mind in the right space.
BUT don’t memorize any answers because you want to be natural and fluid.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Kira Video Interview
What is the Kira interview dress code?
We think business casual works best to maintain the slightly informal style of the interview. For ladies, that means a nice blouse. For men, a professional button-up shirt without a tie or jacket will do. One aspect of the Kira video interview that we like is that it is meant to reflect your personality more than a traditional interview.
However…
There’s a difference between having personality and being totally lackadaisical. Show you are a professional…at least from the waist up. No one has to see your pajama pants on the bottom.
Does Kira Talent record your screen?
The Kira Talent program doesn’t record your screen: it records you! You’ll be given a question and a short time to prepare. Then, the light and camera will come on to record your response automatically. Be ready!
The program won’t record your screen, but it will prevent you from being able to look elsewhere on your computer for notes. That’s why taking notes on paper is so critical.
How can I introduce myself during the interview?
As naturally as possible! The usual name, title, company, place of origin, and the number of years in Dubai should be enough.
For example, I would say:
“Hi, my name is Eden June Michael. I am the Executive MBA tutor and admissions consultant for Apply Me. I’m originally from Atlanta, Georgia in the United States and have been living in Dubai for the past 14 years.”
Easy!
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