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Author Topic: Interview by Video  (Read 2930 times)
officepa
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« on: May 12, 2010, 12:55:10 pm »

Help please !

I will soon be attending a job interview with a chap based in another country - and will be conducted by video link or a conference call but more than likely video.

Any tips on how to deal with this situation please? 

I know I should just imagine him sitting in the room at the table but when I have been involved in meetings via video link (but with about 8 other people my end), it felt strange.  Also quite frustrating as there was a slight time delay. 

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Cathy S
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« Reply #1 on: May 12, 2010, 01:07:41 pm »

Hi Cathy

First and most important? SMILE - but not like a Loon!

... and then make sure you are completely familiar with the equipment ... work out what you will need to do if anything goes pear shaped mid interview.

Then like you say, interview just as if he is sitting in the room with you, but try not to use too many hand gestures because they may not translate well on screen.

Perhaps practice a time lag by getting someone to ask you questions and timing you on a pause before you answer ... that will help you deal with the lag without looking hesitant.  If you have a webcam at home and Skype see if you can get a friend/family member to do the practise that way.

Good luck

Cathy

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gee4
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« Reply #2 on: May 12, 2010, 01:11:25 pm »

Q.  Are you doing this from your workplace? If so...

Tip 1.  Turn up on time and dress as you would for any other interview.

Tip 2.  Reserve the room your are going to use for at least an hour.

Tip 3. Ask IT to assist you with setting up the VC the day before, so you are familiar with how it all works.

Tip 4.  Be aware of time delays, as these do happen, but relax and be yourself.

I suggest you obtain a conference all number should the system fail for some reason.  As a PA, we should always have a back up plan.

Good luck!
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msmarieh
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« Reply #3 on: May 12, 2010, 05:10:30 pm »

Ask if there is an assistant you can practice with the day before. Ask about your speaking volume and the lighting in the room at that time. If possible, set up your video display to show both your own picture (picture in picture) and who you are speaking to. 

Check your hair / makeup / appearance before starting.

Choose your colors carefully. Avoid patterns (like pinstripes), which can create some unfortunate optical illusions at times. Generally speaking darker colors normally translate better (navy blue, royal purple, black, etc.).

Don't wear anything that will clank or jingle - so watch out for loose jewelry, bracelets, dangling earrings, etc. Don't have coins in your pockets. Don't fidget, but don't worry about natural movements. Don't feel like you have to sit there like a statue.

Have a glass of water nearby. Do NOT have any food or gum nearby.

Smile (though not like a loon, as said). Wink

Remember to look at the camera when speaking, not the monitor, so that you will be looking at the interviewer instead of straight ahead when he sees you! (Hopefully they are right on top of each other so it wouldn't matter).

If you find yourself having a verbal stumble, practice pausing. It is far less noticeable to have a short deliberate pause than to hear yourself saying "ummmmm..." for extended periods of time. If necessary to gather your thoughts before answering a question, take a deliberate sip of water to extend your thinking time before answering.

Consider posting key thoughts for yourself (just brief bullet points in very large type) on the wall behind (and ABOVE the video camera) to refresh your memory - things like CONFIDENCE, SMILE, etc. or projects - Teamwork - Showcase Committee, Weakness - xyz, etc.

Most of all, just relax. It's no big deal and it's great practice.
« Last Edit: May 12, 2010, 05:12:16 pm by msmarieh » Logged

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