YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
HOW SHOULD I POSITION MYSELF, OR ACT, TO COME ACROSS WELL DURING VIDEO INTERVIEWS AND CONFERENCE CALLS?
EXPERIENCED DARREN BUCHANAN MANAGING DIRECTOR, HAYS QUEENSLAND
It’s important, firstly, that you’re comfortable with the technology. Get used to looking into a camera (rather than at any notes you’ve positioned just off screen) and speaking into a microphone. Looking into the camera is important to make eye contact with the interviewer, while speaking clearly into the microphone is helpful for avoiding repetition. Remember, also to avoid the temptation of looking at your own image on the screen! Find a tidy, place to do the interview; make sure you’ve removed all non-pertinent objects from the frame; and dress as you would if interviewing in person.
MID-CAREER SINEAD HOURIGAN BRISBANE DIRECTOR, ROBERT WALTERS
Video interviews are definitely becoming more prevalent as part of resourcing strategies for a range of employers, as these solutions offer a range of cost and time savings for organisations. However, people shouldn’t feel that they should perform any differently than they should face-to-face and the key is in the preparation. Just as you would prepare and practice for a faceto-face interview, you should do the same for a video interview. Be mindful of simple things such as fidgeting with a pen or using notes that will prevent you from giving all your attention to the camera.
UP & COMING JULIE FORD SENIOR EXECUTIVE CONSULTANT, McARTHUR
At McArthur, we use a range of technology to conduct interviews and briefings, particularly when candidates or clients are remotely situated. Interviews can be awkward if you have little experience using this medium. Treat it like you would any face-to-face meeting – be professionally presented, use as much eye contact as possible and avoid looking around the room. Look directly into the camera and do not read from notes. If it is a conferencing situation, direct your gaze to the other participants on the screen. Above all, test your technology before the meeting.
THE EXPERT DR NERIDA HILLBERG DIRECTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY, FERRIS MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS
As HR budgets decrease, video interviewing and conferencing is becoming more common in recruitment and selection. The key to success is body language. More than half of our communication is conveyed via our face. You must use appropriate eye contact and smile to indicate confidence and build rapport. Look into the camera when you are talking, not the computer screen. Almost half of our communication is conveyed by our tone of voice. You must be animated, upbeat, positive, articulate, succinct and cogent.