Social distancing has brought to the fore an increase in the practice of interviews being conducted online. Many platforms are available for video calls such as Zoom, Skype, Facetime, WhatsApp, Google Duo, Snapchat, and Instagram among others. For business use however, Skype and Zoom are in the most use.
If you are looking for a new job right now then more than likely you may face an online interview. If you are not already a fan of Skype and Zoom you will need to quickly come up to speed on how to use them both in preparation prior to an online job interview.
It pays to pay close attention to appropriate attire, the background behind you, good lighting, your posture, maintaining good 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.
The best thing to do is to practice a video call with a friend or career coach so you can ensure you come across as polished and professional. It’s better to make all your mistakes and fix them on a practice video call. Keep in mind and consider the following:
The background – Make sure your background is appropriate/tidy.
Lighting – You need to be well lit and not be obscured by shadows.
Eye contact – Camera placement should allow you to face the interviewer directly.
Frame your body = Your head and shoulders centred looks best on screen.
Attire – Dress the part, minimum a nice shirt.
Prepare – Get enough sleep, have a snack beforehand, keep a glass of water close by and warm up your voice beforehand.
Your gestures and behaviour – Smile and remain engaged but don’t overdo the gestures.
Noise and disturbances – Turn off anything that makes a noise like your phone and computer notifications and other background noise from home appliances also need to be turned off.
Allow for delays – Sometimes video calls are slightly delayed, if you notice this happening, allow the other person to finish speaking before speaking yourself.
Log into Skype or Zoom beforehand – Check your settings for audio and visual before your call is due to start to make sure all is working OK.
Above all, if something goes wrong with your tech, keep your cool!
Important Note: These articles have been prepared for general circulation and are circulated for general informational purposes only; these articles should not be regarded as business or investment advice. The articles represent the views of the writers and are subject to change without notice. Additionally, while every care has been taken in the preparation of the articles no representation or warranty as to accuracy or completeness of any statement is given. An individual or organisation should, before any business or investment decision is made, consider the appropriateness of the information in this document, and seek professional advice, having regard to objectives, situation and needs. This document is solely for the use of the party to whom it is provided.