How To Successfully Use Videoconferencing For Interviews

In a tight job market, we experience an increase in project demands and competition for quality professionals.  Good talent does not stay on the market for long, so it’s a “no-brainer” that our clients are using Skype and other software for videoconferencing allowing them to save time, travel expenses and  hire top talent quickly and efficiently before competitor companies.

Candidate Preparation

Preparation for a videoconference interview should be the same as if you were having an in-person interview at the company’s office; however you should treat this interview with more caution since there are additional factors and distractions that could positively or negatively impact the outcome.

  • Attire: Dress in either business formal (pant/skirt suit) or business casual (slacks and business shirt) in full length. Don’t make the mistake of assuming that because the camera will only capture the top half of your body that you can stay in your pajamas from waist down.
  • Setting: Find a quiet and private room or section of your home to conduct the interview and remove any distractions (pets, family, TV, etc). A designated office area in your home would be an ideal setting and remember to close the door to block out any distractions.
  • Practice: Test the video and audio with a friend or family member first to ensure proper volume and quality. Don’t forget to evaluate the background scenery that the interviewer will see in your video to guarantee a clean, professional setting. Remove any distracting or possibly offensive posters, pictures, etc.
  • Resume: Print a hard copy of your resume to refer to during the interview. When asked questions about your work experience or a skill set, you can ask the interviewer to reference a specific place on your resume while providing your answer.
  • Questions: Be prepared to ask the interviewer questions about the position, responsibilities and company. For more help with interviewing, consult our interview tips on our website.

Candidate Instructions

  • Login to your account approximately ten minutes prior to scheduled interview time. If you do not have a Skype account or other videoconferencing software you can create one on their website http://www.skype.com/en/. Whitaker Technical has videoconferencing capability at our Houston office available for use, if needed.
  • After you answer the video call, wait for the interviewer’s video to appear then greet them with a pleasant introduction and smile. If this is the first interview, be prepared to answer a “tell me about yourself” question.
  • Watch your body language and maintain eye contact. It’s unprofessional and disrespectful to check other computer programs or to check your cell phone.
  • Turn your cell phone off. Do not let this distraction interfere with the interview. They will notice.
  • Close out the interview by using some of our recommended interview tips on our website.
  • When finished, call your Whitaker representative to discuss the interview.

Filter Articles & Insights

Newsletters

Our monthly newsletters offer insight on industry trends, career planning and the job market as well as highlight featured job opportunities and industry events. If you’re interested in receiving our monthly newsletter, please complete the sign-up form below. 

IT Newsletter

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Technical Newsletter

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Resources

Staff Blogging

Why Aren’t Workers Using Their Earned PTO?

    Why Aren’t Workers Using Their Earned PTO?   46% of American workers take less paid time off than they are offered, per the Pew Research Center.   There are many reasons why employees don't use all of their PTO. Some of the...

read more