This article is part of the “Interview tips” series.
Online job interviews are becoming the new recruitment norm. Businesses want to find ways of automating the recruitment processes, or at least, speed it up. Holding meetings online is seen as one way of adding convenience and efficiency that can benefit all parties. Despite its growth in popularity across industries, not everyone has had an online interview yet, especially those that have been in the same tole for an extended period.
So how can those preparing for their first online job interview get it right and avoid the common mistakes?
First, Who Offers Online Job Interviews?
Most industries now offer online job interviews before deciding on their applicant. Some jobs may require an in-person interview afterwards, but an online conversation is a way of shortlisting those that have already been shortlisted – just one of the interview rounds. You can find businesses that use online interviews from all the popular job search sites, including many currently listed on JobRapido.
Getting the Basics Right
The basics of a getting an online job interview right may appear to be reasonably standard recommendations. Still, you would be surprised at how many people attend an online job interview inappropriately dressed or with a pet in the room. If you wouldn’t wear it in a typical encounter and wouldn’t bring your family pet, don’t do the same online. You should:
· Dress the right way for an interview
· Test the connection with a friend first
· Make pets, children and others leave the room
· Be aware of the time zone, so you are on time to call
Advanced Tips for Online Interviews
Now that you have mastered the basics, there are plenty of little extra things you can do. These additional tips are designed to make the interviewer have an easier time asking you questions and improve their experience of meeting you online.
1. Avoid Distracting Them
Interviewers can become distracted by many things that you would not have even considered. It is best to conduct the interview away from open windows where there may be noise, use a neutral background (no wacky art!) and do not move around in your chair too much. The latter is especially common when people are nervous.
2. Get the Height Right
Our desks and computers are usually too low for us, and the camera does not look directly into our eyes. To combat this problem, you may want to lower your chair and/or place books under your laptop, so you are facing the other person at eye level. Another way to make better eye contact is to not look at your screen, but instead, look at the camera. People have a tendency to watch themselves when on video calls, but this does not help you make a connection with who you are speaking with.
3. Lighting
Getting the lighting right will also make a difference. If you can use natural light without too much background noise – then do it. Alternatively, place desk lamps that face you – not the computer! In fact, you want to avoid all light directly facing your camera, especially fluorescent bulbs.
Universities are even conducting some online interviews. For these types of meetings, you may need some extra university interview guidance!
