As companies continue to look for ways to trim costs, video and telephone conferences are quickly becoming an initial first step for interviewing non-local candidates. Here are several tips on how to prepare for your video interview:
- Dress as you would for a face-to-face interview - from head to toe. Even though the camera may catch you from waist-up at your desk, don’t take the chance being viewed in shorts.
- Try to maintain eye contact with remote viewers and avoid frequently looking away, which could create an impression that you’re distracted.
- DON’T CHECK YOUR BLACKBERRY.
- Speak clearly and pay close attention to the interviewer’s conversation with you, even if the interview is being simultaneously broadcast to multiple offices.
- When emphasizing something important, lean in slightly toward the camera.
- If you’re a small person in a large chair, sit on the edge of your seat to maintain a strong visual presence.
To prepare for a telephone interview:
- Minimize distracting background noise prior to the call’s start. Barking dogs, television noise and flushing toilets can blow it.
- If the call is unexpected, ask to reschedule for a time when you’ll have had a chance to prepare yourself and your environment.
- If the interview is scheduled, keep your résumé and notes close for reference.
- Like a video interview, avoid checking your blackberry or e-mail, and pay close attention to the conversation. Phone interviewers judge candidates by what they say and how they say it. Lulls in conversation can indicate a lack of focus or knowledge on a subject.
For both telephone and video conference interviews, it helps to practice. You can practice in the mirror or even by recording yourself. Additionally, it’s nice to send a follow-up thank you that reiterates your top selling points. Be sure to proofread, though.
