Five Tips for a Successful FaceTime Interview

John Krautzel
Posted by in Career Advice


More interviewers are using FaceTime to conduct interviews online to save money on recruiting costs and hold interviews at any time. A Facetime interview can be convenient for both the hiring manager and the job seeker, but it can also present challenges for the unprepared job candidate.

Review Your Equipment and Resources

Remember to perform an audiovisual check to determine that all of equipment is working efficiently. Check the strength of your Internet connection before you begin to prevent losing touch in the middle of your FaceTime Interview. Plug your laptop into an Ethernet port for a more reliable connection. Gather all of your materials, and place them nearby so you do not have to pause the interview to fumble around for resources. Make sure you are sitting no more than an arm’s length away from the camera before you begin.

Rehearse for the Interview

To prepare for the interview, rehearse with a friend or family member who can ask you interview-related questions to get you ready for the challenges of a real one. Tape your interview and watch it carefully to assess your performance, and make any necessary improvements to help you shine during interview time.

Observe Your Appearance and Body Language

If you are having a FaceTime interview, it is crucial to dress for the occasion as if you were attending the interview in-person. Wearing the appropriate attire shows professionalism and a serious interest in the job and places you in the best light as potential hire for the company. Pay attention to your body language, and be aware of any signals you may be transmitting to the interviewer. Avoid fidgeting or moving your limbs unnecessarily to avoid appearing anxious or uncomfortable on camera. Maintain great posture during the duration of your FaceTime interview to project confidence and enthusiasm.

Set up a Clear, Well-lit Background

There is nothing more distracting to an interviewer than seeing a messy room in the background. Conduct your FaceTime interview in a spotless zone, and remind other residents in your home to grant you a noise-free space. Avoid picking a room with busy wallpaper, posters or paintings that can also distract the interviewer. Make sure that the room is well-lit so that the interviewer can see you properly during your video interview.

Stay Focused

While doing a FaceTime interview, it can be easy to focus on the screen, but avoid doing this. Focus on the camera instead for a stronger, more personal connection with the interviewer. Close any other chat windows, programs and notifications before you start to avoid any distractions. If you are at home, do not be tempted to relax during the interview, or you could limit your chances for getting the position.

Whether you have a FaceTime interview or any other type of video interview, you can make the interviewer better by properly preparing yourself. Bring your A game into the camera to impress the interviewer and snag the job.

 

Photo courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.net


 

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  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson

    @Thomas - so very true. I have only had a few video interviews and was fortunate that I was able to keep background noises to a minimum and didn't need to wear a headset but I agree that it would have come in handy. It's not very professional to be saying all of the time "Could you please repeat that!" And YES about the background. Doesn't look very professional when you are interviewing and behind you is a sink full of dirty dishes! Professional attire and a cleaned up office or area is the way to go.

  • Thomas C.
    Thomas C.

    I think it's worth mentioning that you should invest in a headset, as computer microphones may be too far away to grant good sound quality. Pay attention to your background as well, make sure it conveys a professional image.

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