Online Interviewing

It comes as no surprise that more companies are conducting online interviews.  It not only saves the company money, it is a simple and effective way to narrow down a field of candidates. Companies do not have to pay for a job fair or travel for prospective job candidates. It is also convenient for the job seeker.  They can interview from home and consequently becomes a “win-win” for both the employer and the job seeker. Many job candidates claim that it is considerably less stressful than interviewing in person, thus allowing the hiring manager to get a more realistic impression.

There are a variety of types of online job interviews, but the most typical is the interview via webcam. Rather than having you travel to an office, the interviewer will simply conduct the interview on a webcam. Depending on the company, they may send you a webcam and a set of interview questions or you may be expected to use your own webcam. Some employers use online web-based systems for interviewing. Some provide options for recorded interviews via webcam and in-depth live interviewing with split screen online interviews with candidates.

Sometimes, rather than interviewing you, employers email you a list of interview questions and ask you to film yourself answering them. If this is the case, all the same rules still apply. Even though you are not speaking directly to a person, be sure to smile and maintain friendly eye contact with the camera. As in any interview, preparation is essential.  Online interviews are just as important as in-person interviews. Your interview could get you to the next round of job interviewing or even a job offer if the company handles all the interviewing online. There are things to do to prepare for this type of interview.

Just because it is online does not mean that professional attire is not recommended.  Even if you are sitting down, wear nice pants and shoes.  There is no predicting what the interviewer might ask. Clear clutter from the viewing area. Assure privacy and stay in a quiet room while the interview is taking place. Have paper and pen handy for note-taking. Keep a resume close.  You may have to refer to dates. Practice using a webcam prior to the interview.  Technology is a part of the business world in 2013.  You want to appear knowledgeable in this regard at all times.

Companies hiring at all levels, from entry-level to experienced professionals, are more comfortable using technology and video interviewing is becoming the next step in the online recruiting process for many recruiters and employers. What’s most important is to consider this type of interview is just as important as if you were meeting the interviewer in his or her office. The value, for you, as well as for the hiring manager, is equivalent, and interviewing successfully, however it takes place, is the key to getting hired.

Source: “Video Job Interviews.” About.com Job Searching. Web. 14 Mar. 2013