Episode six of Coffee With the Coaches, featuring Hutchinson Consulting partner Michael Tompkins and executive recruiter Julie Ambrosini, focused on phone and video interviews and their impact on the job search. If you missed the session, listen here:
Here are some handy tips for making the most of your next remote interview.
PHONE INTERVIEWS
- Schedule the interview properly and double check time zones. Use on-line calendar if needed. Double check those time zones. NEVER assume the interviewer will be in the same time zone as you are.
- Do you research. Research the person you will be talking to on LinkedIn.
- Research the company. Culture, size, products, pricing. anything you can find out is always helpful.
- Make sure you are not being distracted and answer the call professionally.
- Use a land line if possible.
- Turnoff all other devices if possible. Even a vibrating cell phone can distract you.
- No multi-tasking… people can tell if you’re not giving your full attention.
- Know your story and be able to articulate when asked.
- Follow up with a thank you note via email
VIDEO INTERVIEWS
- Same basics as above
- Create a professional background. Tidy up.
- Dress professionally and appropriate for the position you’re interviewing for.
- Speak clearly and look into the camera, not at yourself. Make sure you are not too close to the camera as your face can be distorted.
- Watch for non-verbal clues from interviewer
- Watch your posture and do not slouch
- Know your story – do not get caught up and veer off the subject.
- Ask questions
- Always follow up with a thank you note via email.
ALWAYS BE PREPARED TO ANSWER BASIC INTERVIEW QUESTIONS SUCH AS:
- Tell me about yourself: Know your story. This is your elevator pitch. It should be no longer than 3-4 minutes. If your interviewer wants you to go into deeper details, they will ask.
- Tell me about your current position: Give an explanation of where you work, describe the culture and describe the setting. Go into your work responsibilities and then highlight projects and major accomplishments.
- Why are you considering leaving your current position: Be honest without being negative.
- What are your biggest strengths and weaknesses: Pick your top strength… highlight three. Know your weaknesses… highlight one or two. Do not go on and on.
- What interest you about this position: This is your time to shine! You have done your research and you can explain what you know about the role.
- Tell me about a time when…: When someone asks you these types of questions, they are looking to hear about your work ethic. Be specific with a time or place. These types of questions are not limited to your work life.
- What salary range are you seeking: Dreaded question! The interviewer is simply trying to see if you’re in alignment with the range. Be honest!
Join us for our next editions of Coffee With the Coaches, which take place each Wednesday at 1 pm ET. Topics and registration links are available here.
