Preparing for Video and Phone Interviews

Increasingly, recruiters and employers are using video and phone interviews as an intermediate step between receiving an application form and inviting a candidate for a face-to-face meeting. Video and phone interviews are low cost, easy to set up and efficient. In some cases, for example when the candidate lives overseas (or during a virus pandemic!), video and phone interviews are the only option. If you are expecting a video or phone call, here are some steps we recommend you follow:

Research the employer thoroughly

Knowing your potential employer's key figures, brand message and position in the marketplace will always impress the interviewer. They are likely to ask you what you know about them at some point so it is a good idea to memorize some key points for when they do. You should also prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer. This will reassure them that you are motivated for the position you are applying for. Again, the more you can memorize the better as you want the questions to roll off your tongue.

Prepare yourself and your environment

Have you been given a specific date and time for the video or phone interview? If you have, make sure your cell phone is fully charged and that you are ready at least ten minutes beforehand so you can compose yourself and not feel (and sound) rushed on the call. If you are expecting a call but have no firm date or time, you can still take steps to prepare. For example, you can record a new, professional voicemail recording and make sure you are always the one who answers the phone. If the call comes in at an inconvenient time, explain this to the interviewer and ask to reschedule. If you are communicating via video, your room should look tidy and you should place the camera to minimize distractions. A plain, neutral background is best and lighting should be adjusted so that you are gently lit. For both video and telephone interviews, you should be alone with the door shut. Tell family and friends you are in an interview and are not to be disturbed. Eliminate any sources of distraction (e.g. turn off your desktop notifications, close windows, mute the radio, etc.)

Have your resume and the job description on hand

Either print out a hard copy of your resume and the job description or pull them up on your PC screen as preferred. Prepare for the interview by linking your qualifications and experience with the essential skills and qualities listed on the job description. Ideally, you should only glance at these documents during the interview rather than use them as cheat sheets, especially on a video interview.

Dress to impress

Ideally, you should dress as you would if you were attending a face-to-face interview, even if you are interviewed by telephone. This will put you in a professional frame of mind and keep you on the ball. If you are on a video call, keep your colors and patterns as simple as possible. Busy patterns and bright colors can be distracting when seen through the lens of a webcam.

Stay in control

Everything you have done up to now will have had a subtle effect on how you feel during the interview. Armed with information and feeling comfortable with yourself and your surroundings, you can now perform to your best ability. During the interview, you will need to listen fully to everything the interviewer says. It can help to jot down notes on a piece of paper (typing on a keyboard is distracting and can come across as rude). Particularly note any information regarding the role you are applying for, the company's expectations of its employees and the challenges you might need to face. When it is your turn, speak clearly and slowly, using every opportunity to demonstrate how your skills, experience and personal qualities make you best suited to the role. Your answers should be complete but don't waffle to fill silence. Selling yourself via telephone or video can be challenging. However, by following the personal and environmental preparation tips above, you will maximize your chances of being invited for a face-to-face interview and edging ever closer to your dream career move.