The Videoconference Interview: How To Make a Big Compression!

Videoconference enabled interviews are becoming increasingly common as companies try to reduce costs associated with recruitment. Videoconferencing is often used as a preliminary pre-employment interview whereby professional recruiters meet with a group of candidates to better match the position to the candidates. Here are some pointers that will prepare you for your interview and help you make the best impression possible. At the very least, it will ensure that the technology doesn't get in the way of a good interview.

Question: How does a videoconference interview differ from a traditional interview?

Similarities:

• Treat the videoconference interview as a formal interview.
• Expect to be introduced to all of the participants, and if you are not, it doesn't hurt to ask.
• Speak naturally and don't interrupt.
• Avoid nervous gestures.

Differences:

• More stakeholders attend the interview; it is not unusual to meet with personnel staff, the manager, their manger and possibly even the company president - but not necessarily all at once.
• Depending on what stage you are at in the interview process, interview sessions may be shorter in duration but more frequent (see previous item).
• Expect side conversations to occur. Although this isn't good videoconference etiquette it does happen.
• Occasionally, the start of the interview may be delayed by technical problems particularly if it is a multipoint session. If this happens, stay calm. If you have audio, you may want to have an informal chat about the weather.
• Be aware that compression creates a delay. So what you are hearing was in fact said ½ second ago. To prevent overlap (two people speaking at the same time), pause before speaking.
• Compression does not handle animated gestures well. Try to limit your movements, hand waving, etc. and put more effort into facial expressions.
• Don't lean towards the microphone as you speak. If the far end cannot hear you, they can adjust their volume or you may need to speak up.
• Be aware of the psychological impact of the camera. Use close ups as much as possible to give yourself the best visual presence. Avoid long shots and do not lean back in your chair, this creates a feeling of distance.
• Avoid shuffling papers or tapping objects near the microphones.
• Put your microphone on mute if you need to cough.
• Look directly into the camera when speaking.
• In dress, avoid solid colours such as red (colour bleeds), black (underexposes) or white (overexposes).
• Avoid busy patterns, they take so much time to digitize that your face could literally remain out of focus.
• Avoid tinted lenses if you wear glasses.