Technology has changed the way interviews are conducted today. Increasingly businesses utilize expertise from distant locations for example, because the internet has allowed for people to be connected as never before.

You may be used to interviews over the phone or in person at company premises. Are you equally prepared for a Video interview OR a Skype interview?

VIDEO INTERVIEWS

Videos are used in many ways. One way is as a screening mechanism to determine whether you come across as someone who would fulfil the requirements of a job. Videos are the nearest thing to seeing how people conduct themselves in person.

Videos have been used in the performing arts for a long time as part of auditioning for roles, but now are increasingly used elsewhere. For example, sales executives would need to hold their own in a conversation and to demonstrate an ability to be persuasive. You may need to put together a video as requested where you are asked to speak on a topic or make a pitch. This ability is also crucial in roles where you are the one doing the business development, bringing in the leads. Depending upon the role or specific requirements of a job, a video may be requested where you are basically demonstrating your skill in a key competency.

Another useful aspect of a live video interview is to facilitate a discussion via two parties who are located far enough away that meeting in person is not economically viable or logical due to the time that it would take. These may be facilitated via one of many mediums, for ease I will call them a “Skype” interview.

SKYPE INTERVIEWS

Increasingly, it is more common for candidates to be screened at some point via interviews using Skype, Zoom, FaceTime etc for international or state-wide transfers. Multinational companies may also use Skype interviewing as part of their process for filling roles in subsidiaries.

It pays to pay close attention to appropriate attire, background, lighting, posture, eye contact and adjustments for time delays in conversation that are all quite different to face-to-face interviews. The audio-visual component requires special care and practice using any of these particular media.

Practicing a Skype interview beforehand with a Career Coach is a must if you haven’t done one before. Together you can set up your computer/tablet/phone for the interview. Get everything right via lighting, location and placement of the device. Both the audio and visual aspects need a run through under a no pressure environment. Doing a run through will also give you the confidence needed. to know that you can handle a Skype interview because you’ve done one already.

If you want to practice your Skype interview skills, contact the CIRCLE Recruitment & HR office on 1300 923 000. Career Coach Maria Cordi will help you run through and evaluate your skills via a live Skype interview from your home or current office.

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