Phone, Video conference, Video Recorded, or face-to-face?
Are you preparing for a job interview and don't know what type to expect? We've got you covered! The possible interviews include phone, video conference, or even face-to-face meetings, so it's important that preparation matches the mode of communication as best they can.
A lot can change when communicating through different media - we'll help you prepare for that big day ahead by answering your burning question: What do I need to know about each interviewing process?
The types of interviews you may be asked to prepare for include a phone call, video conference, recorded video presentation, or even in-person meeting. These can vary depending on the company and their needs, but it is essential that your style matches what they are looking for specifically from an applicant's perspective, so make sure that I know my strengths well enough beforehand (which will help with any potential employer) - but also how best present myself during these different styles.
A video-recorded interview is like a video conference, but the interviewer records your responses. This type of interview is often used for companies that are far away or have tight timelines. The interviewer will send you a list of questions, and you will record your answers on your own.
Let's explore each of the interview methods in a little more depth.
Phone Interviews:
A phone interview is the most common type of interview. It is used to screen candidates and is typically conducted by a recruiter or human resources representative. The interviewer will ask you questions about your work history, education, and skills.
For this type of interview, be prepared to discuss your qualifications and why you are interested in the position. It’s important to be aware of the company’s needs and how you can meet them. You should also have a few questions for the interviewer about the job and the company.
The best way to prepare for a phone interview is to practice. Have a friend or family member call you and ask you questions about your experience and skills. You can also review the company’s website and learn about its products or services. Be prepared to talk about your experience and why you are interested in the position.
- Be prepared to discuss your resume, why you are interested in the position, and some of your strengths and weaknesses
- Have a list of questions for the interviewer prepared
Video Conferences:
A video conference is like a phone interview, but obviously, the interviewer can see you. This type of interview is good for companies that are interested in remote employees or if they want to see how you look and sound before moving forward with an in-person meeting.
When preparing for a video conference, make sure you know what type of equipment the company will be using. It is likely they will be using Skype, WebEx, or Zoom meetings, so be familiar with that program. Make sure your internet connection is strong, and test the audio and video quality ahead of time. Dress professionally and make sure the background behind you is neat and professional.
For this type of interview, be prepared to discuss your qualifications and why you are interested in the position. It’s important to be aware of the company’s needs and how you can meet them. You should also have a few questions for the interviewer about the job and the company.
The best way to prepare for a video conference interview is to practice. You may practice using a video conferencing service such as mentioned above to ensure that your technology works properly.
You should dress professionally for a video conference, just as you would for an in-person interview. Stay away from fussy patterns or shirts, blouses, and bulky jewelry that may detract from what you are trying to convey about your work experience. Make sure the background behind you is professional and that you are in a quiet place where you will not be interrupted. You should also test your internet connection and make sure your camera and microphone are working properly.
Similar to a phone interview, be prepared to discuss your resume, strengths, and weaknesses
Be aware of your surroundings and dress appropriately
Recorded Video Job Interview:
Some companies use recorded video interviews with the goal of assessing how you would do as an employee in their company; it's also known as "performance interviewing." The interviewer will send you a list of questions, and you will record your responses on your own. The questions range across different topics or experiences, so they can get more insight into what makes YOU tick!
To get the best result from a video interview, you must practice. Have someone call on as though they were the employer or client doing a mock interview and ask you questions about your experience and skills while you record it. Practice so that there are no awkward silences between questions during the mock interview. You can also prepare for your interview by researching the company’s website and learning about its products or services.
Similar to a video conference interview, be prepared to discuss your resume, strengths, and weaknesses
Practice your presentation by doing mock interviews with friends or family members until it feels natural in front of the camera
Be aware of your surroundings and dress appropriately
In-Person Job Interviews:
An in-person interview is always a possibility, depending on the company and your location. This type of job interview is usually for positions that are in the same city as the company.
Be ready to discuss your resume and experience in detail. The interviewer will likely ask questions about your qualifications and why you are interested in the position. You should also be prepared to ask questions about the company and the job.
When preparing for an interview, it is important to be aware of the type of interview that will be taking place. Different types of interviews require different types of preparation. You may be given an in-person interview, where you will have one or multiple interviews. This could include meetings of any kind: one-on-ones, panels/groups - if they are looking for different opinions about something specific from people who know what's happening inside the company.
Learn about their products or services and what their goals are. Be prepared to discuss your qualifications, why you are interested in the position, and how you can help the company meet its goals. Have a list of questions for the interviewer prepared.
You can practice by answering common interview questions or by practicing in front of a mirror.
Dress professionally
Bring extra copies of your resume
Do your research on the company and be prepared to talk about their goals and how you can help meet them
Have a list of questions for the interviewer prepared.
Arrive on time or early
Shake the interviewer's hand when you meet them
Thank the interviewer for their time when the interview is over.
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Bobbiette Swanson is the founder & owner of Soar Career Services. She is an award-winning, former Certified Senior Executive Recruiter of over 20 years. Bobbiette's experience included placing direct-hire professionals with Fortune 500 companies nationally. She is passionate about ensuring Ready Resume clients receive the utmost in professional services. Bobbiette is accomplished across diverse industries that uniquely qualify her to provide her clientele with the services of Interview Preparation, Resume Writing, Career Coaching, and other career services.
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