Insider tips to ace phone and video job interviews

Phone and video interviews became increasingly popular among recruiters to screen candidates during the pandemic. Now post pandemic, they are still in full force. If you're preparing for a job interview on the phone or via video conference, here are some powerful tips that will help you stand out as a top candidate.

Phone Interviews

Phone interviews typically serve as the first filter used by recruiters when narrowing down a long list of job applicants. They’re short, to the point, and are often casual. Here are a few ways you can make a great impression and increase your chances of getting to the next stage of the recruitment process!

1. Do your research. Before the interview, take some time to research the company and the position you're applying for. This will not only help you come across as well-informed during the interview, but it will also allow you to ask thoughtful questions.
   
   
2. Create a cheat sheet. Since you won't be able to refer to pages of lengthy notes during the interview, it can be helpful to create a cheat sheet with key points and questions. This way, you can quickly reference your notes and avoid sounding unprepared or disorganized during the call.
   
   
3. Listen up. It's important to be an active listener during a phone interview - even more so than in an in-person interview. Because you can't rely on body language cues, you need to pay close attention to the interviewer's tone of voice and choice of words. Make sure to ask clarifying questions if you're unsure about something and avoid interrupting the interviewer.
   
   
4. Smile. Although the interviewer won't be able to see your facial expression, studies show smiling can actually affect the way your voice sounds. So, even though it may feel weird, make sure to smile throughout the interview.
   
   

Video Interviews

While in-person job interviews can be nerve-wracking, video interviews can present their own set of challenges. After all, you not only have to think about what you say, but also how you look on camera and whether your technology is working properly. Read on for five sure-fire ways of acing your next video interview.

1. Test your tech. Check which video conferencing technology your interviewer will be using (Skype, Zoom, Google Hangout, etc.) and make sure you have it installed and are comfortable with the user interface. A day before the interview, do a quick test call. Set up your laptop and camera just as you would for the interview. Then, do a trial video conference with a friend to ensure everything’s running smoothly.
   
   
2. Dress the part. Even though you're not meeting in person, you want to show that you're taking the interview seriously. Dress the same as you would for an in-person interview so that you show yourself as a professional who is well-prepared for their video interview.
   
   
3. Pay attention to your body language. Avoid fidgeting or crossing your arms and maintain eye contact with the interviewer as much as possible. Although you’re not physically in the same room as your interviewer, negative body language will still be noticeable.
   
   
4. Set the stage. Take the job interview in a quiet room with good lighting and a clean background. Make sure there are no distracting objects in the background and ask your family or roommates to keep noise to a minimum.
   
   
5. Relax and be yourself. This is often easier said than done, but the more natural and comfortable you appear, the better your chances of impressing the interviewer and landing the job. Remember, the best way to relax before a video interview is to prepare beforehand.
   
   

The Bottom Line on Phone and Video Interviews

When it comes to nailing job interviews, these are a few things to keep in mind - no matter what the format. For video and phone interviews, preparation is key. That means being familiar with the company, the role you're interviewing for, and your own skills and qualifications. It also means having a few questions of your own ready to ask.

On the day of, be sure to dress professionally, even if you're just interviewing from your living room. Smile, make eye contact (if you're on video), and speak clearly. With a little bit of preparation, you'll be able to ace any video or phone job interview that comes your way.