Quick Tips for a Phone or Video Interview:
Timing:
- Arrange the interview when you are available and can focus.
- Be in a quiet space (not on a bus in or in a dining hall).
- Clear the room - Turn off the stereo and the TV. Close the door.
What to have accessible:
- Keep your resume in clear view, on the top of your desk so it's at your fingertips when you need to answer questions.
- Have a short list of your accomplishments available to review.
- Have a pen and paper for note taking.
- Keep a glass of water handy.
While on the call/video:
- Turn call-waiting off as well as text and application alerts off so your call/video isn't interrupted.
- Unless you're sure your cell phone service is going to be perfect, consider using a landline rather to avoid a dropped call or static on the line.
- Be sure you have a strong internet connection when interviewing over video conference or Skype.
- Don't smoke, chew gum, or eat.
- Dress in professional attire for video interviews. It also helps many feel more prepared to dress professionally for phone interviews.
- Look into the camera to maintain eye contact; to make this feel more natural, move the frame of the interviewer's image so it is just below the camera.
- For video interviews, make sure there are not any inappropriate posters or items in the background.
- Smile. Smiling will project a positive image to the listener/viewer and will change the tone of your voice.
- Speak slowly and enunciate clearly.
- Use the person's title (Mr. or Ms. and their last name.) Only use a first name if they ask you to.
- Don't interrupt the interviewer.
- Take your time - it's perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to collect your thoughts.
- Don't forget to ask for an email address to send a thank you email following the call/video.
Check out these additional tips from Vault!