Video calls have revolutionized how we communicate in a quiet way. Skype, Facetime and and ooVoo are just a few easy ways to digitally talk to someone face to face. It’s not just social, though: job interviews can now be efficiently conducted out of office. But new methods of communication mean new rules for presentation. Sarah Duke writes on several steps to conduct the perfect video interview. Here’s what she had to say:
Act like you’re really there. Both parties can still see one another! First, dress appropriately. A more casual environment does not equal a more casual outfit. The joke about only dressing nice from the waist up during a video chat is a lot less funny in real life. And since you can’t really make eye contact, make “camera contact” – look directly at your webcam from time to time. Looking at the other person on your screen looks like you’re looking away, and looking at yourself is downright awkward.
Delete distractions. Close out of all your programs on your computer, silence your cell phone and find a quiet, private place to have the interview. Little beeps are still rude, even with distance between the interviewer and the interviewee, and they’re just as inexcusable as in a face-to-face situation.
Know how to use the technology. You’d be surprised at how a little quip like “sorry, this is the first time I’ve used Skype,” can start things off on the wrong foot. Whatever video app you use, know it well. You need to know what those weird little noises, buttons and pop-ups are for so you don’t waste time during the interview figuring it out.
What matters most is that you not let the added wall of video make the experience feel like anything less than a legitimate job interview. A screen doesn’t make anything casual, it just makes it convenient.
Published by Conselium Executive Search, the global leader in compliance search.
