Whether you have done online interviews in the past or are participating in one for the first time, it is crucial to find ways to make the process less stressful and more productive.
Online interviews can seem daunting, especially if you have never done one before. Whether you are concerned about getting used to the technology for the interview, or if you want to present yourself as perfectly as possible, it is important to know what you are doing when the time comes for your interview.
The Importance of Online Interviews
Just as with an in-person interview, an online interview has its own pros and cons. However, the benefits generally outweigh the negatives that are associated with this type of interview. For example, they help to save time for both the interviewer and the interviewee. In many cases, it just takes a computer, a web cam, and a set time and date for the interview.
For companies that are looking to fill one or more roles, online interviews increase their accessibility to potential candidates. Many people find it easier to schedule meetings and interviews over the internet, rather than trying to come up with a time and date that works for both people to meet in person. Another benefit of online interviews is that the interviewer is not waiting for a potential employee to show up. With an in-person interview, if the interviewee does not show up, the interviewer can waste valuable time trying to determine whether or not the interview will take place. However, online interviews allow for an instant connection to the other person, so the interviewer will know pretty quickly whether or not the applicant will show up for the interview.
Companies and individuals, who are concerned about the cost of an interview, will appreciate how generally inexpensive an online interview may be. Many times there is no special equipment involved and a room does not need to be reserved. Companies who conduct online interviews are often seen as progressive and modern, as they are interviewing in a way that many companies are not.
There are some drawbacks to conducting online interviews, but they are generally outweighed by the benefits. Some of the biggest concerns include poor quality, particularly for potential candidates who do not have access to high quality internet. Another concern is that the applicant may not have the right equipment for the interview. Many computers come with webcams built in, while others allow for webcams to be easily installed and used. However, some potential candidates may not have a webcam at all.
Web Interview Tips and Tricks
Whether it's a job interview or a meeting for a different reason, the act of being interviewed alone can be intimidating. Add in a webcam to the mix, and it is no wonder that many people may seem hesitant when it comes time to participating in this type of interview. Fortunately, there are a number of useful tips and tricks that can make an upcoming webcam interview much more tolerable.
The first is for the applicant to be comfortable with the equipment that will be used in conducting the interview. This can mean going out and buying a webcam several days in advance and practicing prior to the interview. During this time, it is a good idea to practice webcam chats with others who have one in order to get used to internet speed, quality, positioning, and to be aware of any potential issues. Sometimes, the sound might not work or the image appears fuzzy. It is vital to identity and to repair these problems before the interview.
Another trick is to conduct a mock interview. Even though the interview is taking place online, the content and expectations are generally the same as they are for in-person interviews. A good place to start is with a good friend or a former co-worker who has access to a webcam and who can take part in a productive mock interview.
Interviewees should be mindful of the way they dress for the interview. Just because it's a webcam interview doesn't mean that casual dress is okay. An online interview should be treated with the same level of respect as an in-person interview. This means refraining from doing anything that would not be done during a regular interview.
Online Interview Technology
Online interviews are important, and so is the technology that permits them. Technology that streamlines the process, and ensures good quality throughout the interview, is ideal. Examples of such technology are UberConference or Vidyo which is making strides in the online interview world. Such products make it easier than ever to connect with and to interview people almost anywhere in the world.
There are many benefits to conducting an interview online. The process may seem nerve-wracking at first, but with adequate preparation, and the right equipment, the interview will go much more smoothly.