Interviewing in Our Tech-Infused World

 

When your resume was plucked from the pile and you were called in for an interview, you used to know what to anticipate – a face-to-face interaction, with the manager and perhaps an additional employee, behind a closed office door.

 

Today, that’s no longer the case. Employers are turning to creative and convenient options for a twist on the classic, in-person interview. Keep these do’s and don’ts in mind as you show up to, call in for, and even tweet your interview!

 

“Twitterviews” – Some employers are turning to Twitter as a public interviewing forum, making questions and answers not only public, but also are restricted to 140 characters.

Do make sure you are entering the correct hashtag.

Do limit your answer to one tweet.

Avoid sarcasm. Tone is hard to decipher.

Avoid addressing the public until the interviewer is completed with questions.

Do check for spelling errors and easily-misunderstood content before posting.

 

Skype and Video Conferencing – A convenient option for out-of-town applicants or preliminarily interviewing.

 

Do dress up for the interview.

Do put a sign on your door to alert any visitors to contact you later or for FedEx to leave the package at the door.

Do prop the computer higher than your head for a more flattering angle.

Avoid looking at yourself on the screen; it can make you seem insecure. Instead, look directly into the camera.

Avoid poor lighting. Test out several areas in your home office for the best combination.

Do update your online profiles, including your Facebook profile image and LinkedIn information.

 

 

Phone Interviews – Another convenient option for out-of-town applicants and preliminarily interviews.

Do be aware of your voice tone and volume.

Do smile when you talk and dress up for the interview. Even though they can’t see you, your professionalism will come through.

Do prepare for the obvious questions, such as the time gap in your resume or what your greatest asset is.

Avoid distractions. Clear off a workspace and seclude yourself in a quiet area of your home.

Do Google yourself to see what your front page displays.

Avoid pacing while you are on the call. Your breathlessness may come across as lack of authority.

Do stand up. You will sound more confident and energetic.

 

Video Recorded Interviews – Digital recorded interviews, through companies like Hire-Vue, allow HR departments to review candidates as they please. Interviewees answer a series of questions and record via webcam. 

Do limit distractions and record in a quiet, organized area.

Avoid recording “on-the-fly.” Rehearse your answers and follow notes to stay on track.

Do dress up, shave, and put make-up on.

Do smile and annunciate.

Avoid bad lighting and unflattering angles.

Do test your audio and video quality before submitting.

Avoid watching yourself in the monitor. Instead, look directly into the camera.

 

Group or Panel Discussions –Being interviewed by a panel of employees or multiple interviewees spoken to at once. 

Do make eye contact with the person who asked the question, but also continue to address the room.

Avoid talking over others.

Avoid getting tired of answering questions if you are in multiple interviews in one day.

Do understand that intimidation is often a tactic during group interviews. Do your best to stay relaxed and considerate.

Avoid impolite facial expressions while others are answering questions.

Do read the personality types in the room and attempt to connect with each interviewer.

 

Traditional, One-on-One – The classic, most predictable interview style. 

Do look put-together. Business casual is a great standard to follow.

Do come prepared. Arrive early and bring your resume and portfolio.

Avoid bringing food or drink.

Do research the company and ask appropriate questions.

Do turn off or completely silence your phone. Since we are all “plugged in,” even a vibration from a cell phone can be distracting.

Avoid getting too personal. There’s a fine line between connecting with the interviewer and revealing too much.

Do prepare for odd questions. Companies like Google, Zappos, Whole Foods, even JP Morgan Chase are asking offbeat questions to make ideal selections for their companies.

 

No matter what communication style is selected for your next interview, be sure to close the interview properly. Send a thank you note, either to the physical mailing address or all appropriate emails. Your kindness is sure to go a long way. Even if you aren’t hired just yet, you never know what doors may be opened in your future!