subject: The Skype Or Online Face To Face Job Interview Experience [print this page] The Camcorder/Skype interview was bound to happen - and its been happening faster and faster as the world becomes smaller and smaller. Because we are able to reach out to others around the world through social networking, electronic devices and instant communication without leaving home or the office it is not surprising that companies have latched on to this technique to conduct job interviews.
Companies and agencies continue to be challenged to find ways of cutting costs, especially when it comes to travel and entertainment. Interviewing long-distance is the perfect solution to slashing thousands and thousands of dollars off of the corporate recruiting budget.
The latest trend in job interviews is to use the Camcord/Skype technology to screen and interview applicants. Companies are finding this new method to be a great way to save time as well as money by conducting phone screenings before they bring the candidate in for a face-to-face interview and in some cases to conduct the full job interview over Skype.
Just a few of the companies that are joining the ranks and using Camcorder interviews are -- Merck Pharmaceutical, University of Michigan, UPS, Amway, Kohler, Broadcom, Walmart, InterContinental Hotel Group, ARAMARK, Mayo Clinic with more companies jumping on the band wagon daily.So, if you want to stay up-to-date with the latest trends for job interviewing get ready for the next challenge interviewing in front of a Camcorder.
What this means is that you will be sitting at home or in an office and staring into a screen with an image looking back at you. There will also be a small window so that you can see yourself. As if you werent already nervous enough about the interview process this new technology could take you over the top.
Tips On Camcord/Skype Interviewing
The question is How do you prepare for such an interview? Uncharted territory is always difficult, but with some preparation and practice this just might work in your favor. Taking some tips from television interviews I have been involved in, there are some things to avoid and some things that will make you come across in a more powerful manner.
Rule #1 Practice - with Skype.
You will be far more at ease in a job interview if you have used Skype and the Camcorder before the interview. The good news is that the experience doesnt require expensive equipment. In fact, if you have a laptop computer there is more than likely a built in camera and you are all set to begin.For those who do not have a laptop small webcam cameras are available at stores that sell electronic equipment for a reasonable price (starting at $19.95).
Skype itself is easily installed on your computer and you willbe up and running in no time.
Rule #2 Adjust the Camera before the interview.
Becoming comfortable with the adjustment of the camera level and angle will give you the power to position how the other person will see you. If you call in before the interview you can play with the placement of the camera so that you can look your best.
Rule #3 Makeup/Lights/Camera
As with any interview, judgment starts at first sight. There is a limited amount of things that you can do to change your appearance but looking your best is as important as in any face-to-face interview.
A few basic rules:
Look Professional at least for the part of you in camera range.
Wear solid colors not prints or bold patterns. Pastels are softer than white.
Make sure that you are well groomed hair, facial hair, teeth (no spinach in the teeth).
Sit up straight posture is important to your impression and self-confidence.
Smile, as appropriate. You dont want to look like a deer caught in headlights.
Avoid looking down at notes try to look at the screen/camera. You will
be talking to a face, or faces, on the screen. Look into the persons eyes just as you would in an in-person interview.
As tempting as this may be, avoid staring at yourself in the small box. This is about you having a conversation with another person.
Avoid sudden or jerky hand gestures. Sometime there is a camera delay and it will be to your advantage to use smooth hand gestures and movements.
If you wear makeup, wear eye makeup to emphasize your eyes and softer colored lipstick. Experiment with this look.
Rule #4 Good Content Is Essential
It is a given that unless you have something that will grab your viewers attention, they will more than likely delete the recording and not invite you in for another interview. This is a professional endeavor and should be treated as a professional presentation. You may not be the most objective person to judge whether anyone will watch beyond the first 30 seconds. Get feedback from a professional, friend, or family member. Remember to choose someone who will be able to dish-out some honest feedback without you becoming defensive or having your feelings hurt.
Rule #5 Beware of Phony Postints/Contacts
If you are actively screening job postings you may have seen an item posted on some companys websites. Its an offer for a Free Application Screening. Surprise this is nothing more than a job interview using the camcorder to see you and make a judgment whether to pursue you further.
As with anything new, there will be a learning curve with this process. Experiment with others to feel more at ease when you do receive that call for a camcord/Skype interview. Once you get the call, it will be too late to start to practice.
by: Carole Martin
welcome to Insurances.net (https://www.insurances.net)
