The internet is a powerful tool receiving and sending information today. Comparing to when it started, that almost everything can be found on online, even jobs. And with the fast pace nature of the internet, interviews that were traditionally done in person, are also changing its course.
Though not all the time, interviews can be accomplished easier and faster nowadays using your smartphone that video or phone, that it has become a common practice in the workplace.
Applicants should keep in mind that interviews can be tricky. It is the last step to getting that job you always wanted. To make an impression, make sure you are prepared with the right answers to any possible questions to seal the deal with the employer.
And even in interviews via phone or video, the interviewee must be aware about the similarities of its traditional counterpart. Here are 7 hacks on how to succeed on video or phone interview:
Dress accordingly
Wherever you are, the way you step out of the door in your clothes is a reflection of your personality. If you are going to job interviews, whether it is personal, video, or phone, applicants should always dress accordingly.
This is a common mistake among applicants because of thinking that phone or video interviews are more casual as compared to personal ones. Do not attend a video interview in your pajamas because employers may think you are lazy and not taking the opportunity to tell them what you can do by heart.
Fix your hair, wear clean clothes that are office-ready, and put on smile because you are never fully dressed without a smile.
Take this interview seriously
Video or phone interviews require a precise set of skills. Because you do not know what may happen in every interview, it is advisable to practice first before meeting your employer virtually.
See what you look like on camera you will use for the interview because appearing on screen may sometimes feel awkward. Furthermore, record your voice to know how to properly modulate them because avoiding these may cause the following problems:
- Possibility of looking different on camera
- Possibility of looking at the wrong direction, instead of directly at the interviewer
- Possibility of raising your voice without noticing
- Possibility of awkwardness and shyness when in front of your employer
- Possibility of feeling pressure because of lack of preparation
- Possibility of showing wrong body language
The tip to make video or phone interviews natural is to practice it with your friend. While practicing, record the session so you can adjust to anything that doesn’t feel right for you. And always remember to speak professionally and never use foul language.
Be calm and prepared
One common mistake of applicants when doing interviews is the lack of preparation and letting pressure take the best of them. When attending an interview, you must have the following:
- Applicants can have the option sending a copy of their curriculum vitae or more commonly known as resume before the start of the interview. It should include your educational background, objectives of applying for the position, work experience, set of skills, accomplishments, hobbies, and interests,
- A portfolio of your works or studyings and tests, like CLEP exam to showcase what you can offer to the company. Here you can read more about CLEP exam http://www.essaysupply.com/blog/how-the-clep-exams-benefit-your-future-goals. They can be a series of photographs if you are a photographer, illustrations for graphic artists. Be sure to send them to your employer before the start of your interview.
- A clear train of thought. Do not over prepare and keep in mind that best interviews are when you are being yourself. The tip is to not be nervous because this can distract the interview especially when the interviewer may possibly miss the point you are trying to get across.
- Be sure to be articulate with your choice of words so the interviewer can understand you.
Get the proper software and hardware
Every phone or video interview requires the proper equipment. For phone interviews, make sure you own a cellular phone with no signal problems. Also make sure that they are fully charged and your charger should be within eyesight in case you have low battery. Also to have better voice quality, use a headset.
For video interviews, ensure a good quality webcam and make sure to legally download the application your employer wants to use for the interview.
Set up your equipment before the start of your interview
Video or phone interviews cannot be done in just on click. You need to allot time for preparation to pressure. Make sure to properly set up your phone or webcam at least an hour early before the start of your interview.
- Set up your webcam to an area in your house that will not distract your interviewer
- Do not talk to anyone before the time of your interview
- Make sure your internet connection is stable
- Have pre-cautions in any case your internet connection might encounter problems
- Always have a backup plan
Be yourself
Nothing beats anything than being your authentic self. Do not pretend to be someone you are not and never commit to anything you do not want to do. The employer wants to work with someone who is honest and is really fit for the job.
For example, if you’re looking for a job as a writer, make sure to let your ideas flow and share them to your interviewer. Be personable and professional.
Stay focused
In every interview, professionalism is always the key to a probable success. This includes not conducting two or more interviews at the same time, as well as not making a fool of out you. Always remember your goals: That is to get that job.
In conclusion, following these 7 phone or video guidelines can help you in getting the job you want to be at the palm of your hands. Just make sure you and your equipment are ready to start taking as many interviews that you can.
