It can be tough for spouses who are PCSing to be at a job interview in their new location before they have packed up at their current duty station. Especially if the two bases are across country, or even overseas.
Luckily, technology is making it easier for employers to conduct interviews with potential hires via internet and video cameras. No traveling. No sitting nervously in the lobby. The weather outside won’t touch that perfect hair and makeup after you’ve left the mirror. And, no heels to wear!
But, before you get too excited about not having to get dressed and leave home, consider this scenario:
You sit down in front of your computer, thinking everything is in place to make your best impression. But, as soon as the interviewer asks the first question, you notice that your notecards are not within reach. Fortunately, the interviewer seems pretty laid back and she has no problem with your stepping away to grab them. Unfortunately, however, as soon as you hear her gasp, you realize that wearing your pajama bottoms with your suit jacket wasn't such a great idea after all.
Before you get embarrassed by a mishap you could have prevented, use these quick tips to nail your next online video job interview.
1. Get completely and appropriately dressed just as you would for an in-person interview. Wearing business attire will make you feel more professional and come across as more confident.
2. Keep hair and make up simple. Wear solid dark colors or shades of blue to look your best on camera. With the high-quality technology we have today, you don’t want to create visual distractions or look unflattering on screen.
3. Prior to the interview turn on your camera and record a few minutes of footage. Play it back to examine the surroundings your interviewer will see. Make sure your lighting isn’t causing glares or shadows. Remove clutter and items not related to work. Straighten crooked mirrors, photos and certificates on the wall.
4. Make sure everything you need is within reach and organized so you won’t have to search for your resume, cover letter, notecards, pen, etc. And keep the number of items to a minimum.
5. Eliminate audio distractions. This includes people (who may also photo bomb your session), pets, cell phones, house phones, computer notifications, televisions and radios.
6. Practice with a relative or friend and record the session so you will have feedback and see for yourself, how you really look and sound on camera. Take note: you will look more natural by looking at the camera and not at the interviewer.
7. Set up the equipment a day or two in advance. Download any software you will need. Plug in your computer and fully charge your battery. Purchase a microphone instead of using your computer’s mic. Invite a tech-savvy friend to be on standby to help if you need it. This won’t look like you are not proficient in technology; it will show that you plan ahead for success.
8. Have a professional username and email address, preferably your first and last name. If your name appears on the screen during the interview, it will help the person remember your name during and after the session.
9. While waiting for the interview to begin, mute the sound and place a post-it note over the camera. Once the interview ends make sure all equipment is turned completely off. In both cases, you don't want comments or movements to be unintentionally heard or seen.
10. Be engaging. Smile and focus on the conversation. It's okay to nod a bit and move your hands slightly. You want to look natural, not as if you are flailing around and definitely not too stiff.
You are the producer, actor and director, so take charge of your video interview and create a masterpiece!
