As employers continue to integrate technology into the recruitment process, the web-video interview is an increasingly used tool with recruiters and hiring managers alike.  Just within the last couple of months, several of my clients have experienced web-based video interviews through Skype and other Internet video-conferencing services.

Web-based interviews give an employer the opportunity to “meet” potential candidates without the high-cost of airfare and hotel expenses for regional or national searches.  But don’t rule out the potential for increased use for local employment opportunities, since the added advantage is recording and sharing the interview with other managers for feedback on compatibility, responses to questions, etc.  This makes it easier for scheduling, eliminating the need to coordinate available meeting times with multiple managers and candidates alike.

Taken one step further, some web-based interviews are not two-way (communicating with another person), but rather predetermined questions displayed on your monitor…and you have three minutes to give your answer.  No breaks, pauses, or “do-overs” in this process!  Are you intimidated about these types of interviews?  Well don’t despair—there are ways to prepare yourself! 

Before you find yourself scheduled for a web-based interview, conduct a mock interview of yourself using Skype. Have a friend provide feedback and determine how to improve your general interviewing skills. 

• Test the equipment.  Prior to any web interview, make sure your camera, microphone/sound, and Internet connection work well.  Avoid rooms with an echo.
• Dress for the interview.  Even though interviewers can see you only from the waist up, make sure you look professional.  Wear colors (not white) that look good on camera and avoid patterns and stripes that could create video distortion.
• Prepare your new “studio.”  Choose a quiet room and be sure there is good lighting on your face (avoid direct sunlight).  Avoid any distracting décor behind you (within the camera frame).
• Look into the camera.  Make sure you remember where the camera is and make direct eye contact with your interviewer.  Avoid looking at your own image, as it is typically visible on your computer screen.
• Use crib notes.  If there are several topics or highlights of your experience you don’t want to forget to cover, don’t hesitate to affix some keywords on cardstock just behind the camera lens.  This may give you a sense of confidence to counteract the extra anxiety web interviews can create.

Most importantly, embrace the technology…and above all, be yourself!