Interviewing for a job in a different state or country? Does anyone else feel like it is nearly impossible to give a good impression and account of yourself via a telephone or Skype interview? Perhaps its just me but I feel far more confident and connected in person and I believe it shows up in the interview process.
There is an obvious lack of personal communication that is absent in those two forms of interviewing and I never walk away feeling confident of my chances, regardless of my experience level. I have read online about reactions similar to mine that come from the hiring manager as well. They talk about feeling awkward talking about the position and completing numerous interviews online, and often don't feel like the person they select is always the same person who walks in the door on the first day to sign paperwork.
Is there a better way to do online interviews? Should they follow a different style than the interviews done in person to compensate for the lack of human interaction?
You present an interesting question about online interviews. I have never done an interview like this, but I have thought about how it might be and that it is something that will be inevitable should I apply overseas and/or across the country. My original thoughts would be that I would feel more comfortable in a Skype or telephone as I could interview from the comfort of my own home. However, I do think it could be difficult to really get a feel for a person over skype, and especially over the phone. My uncle and I were recently discussing how digital interviews are trending, and I am curious as to why employers would chose that over in-person (other than location of course).
ReplyDeleteI have noticed virtual interviews increasing as well. My friend is HR intern and she told me its important to be aware that the larger the organization, the more you should definitely be "on your toes" during the telephone interview, too. Many times these initial calls come from screeners who are specifically trained to sound upbeat, enthusiastic, and friendly. Their disarming nature can easily cause you to "let your guard down" and say things you shouldn't say and come across as "unprepared." The fact of the matter is, it is their job to exclude as many candidates as possible and as quickly as possible!
ReplyDeleteTips:
Let calls from unfamiliar numbers go into voice mail so you can appropriately listen, prepare, and call them back—promptly of course—on your own terms; or, If you do answer the call and it is someone who wants to have a "preliminary conversation," state, "I would love to speak with you. However, I am not in a position to speak freely at the moment. When may we schedule a time to speak?" Either way, you empower yourself not to be pushed into a conversation you are not yet prepared to have. And believe me, you can't ever afford to "wing" a phone interview/phone screen. You must be prepared! Best of luck to you.