Job Search Guide: LAND A JOB
38
TYPES OF INTERVIEWS No two interviews are exactly the same, but when you are planning your particular interview, know that it will likely take place in one of three ways: in person, phone or video conference. Each presents its own unique challenges and hurdles. −
to actively engage with all the people in the room. Direct most of your eye contact toward the person who asked the question, but be sure to hit upon the other members as well. Seeing the interviewer take notes is not a bad thing. Their notes are often innocuous, instead of sinister, and mostly help them remember something you said for later debate. − Be overdressed vs. underdressed. It This is a burgeoning trend in recruiting is much easier to scale back an outfit practices and you need to be prepared. than to upscale it. Confirm dress Dress as if it were in person. Yes, that expectations well in advance. includes pants and shoes. Clothes set the tone and you do not need to get too casual. Control the environment. Do your − Telephone interviewing presents its best to control for noise and visual own particular challenges, namely the distractions. Interview in front of blank lack of visible feedback. Pay especially space as much as able, and send the close attention to your tone and roommates and household pets away. rapidity of your speech. Look into the camera. As tempting as − Smile while talking. As contrived as it it may be to look at the screen while may sound, smiling while talking will talking, look into the camera, that is help to charge your language with the “eye” you should be attempting to positivity that you would otherwise make contact with. give in person. Use an ethernet cable. Avoid − Silence is ok. When you’re on the conducting over Wi-Fi. Temperamental phone, silence seems to stretch connection issues might reflect poorly forever. When you’re in person, you upon you. can see the interviewer writing, being Use the University Career Center. distracted, etc., but over the phone Unable to find a quiet space free of you get none of that. When you’re distraction or do not own a video finished with your response, be ok camera? Feel free to use our facilities with the seemingly infinite silence to conduct your interview. Please call that follows. 334-844-4744 to take advantage of − Use a landline. Cell phones have the the resource. uncanny ability to go out when you need them most. Use a landline for your phone interviews. The University Career Center will allow you to use Make eye contact. This simple task one of ours, free of charge. can be particulary vexing, but it is the − Be in a quiet environment. Encourage best way to showcase that you are your roommates to leave and take plugged into what they are saying and pets with them. You need it to be as are trying to connect when you are silent as possible, especially to cut speaking as well. down on distractions. Be prepared for a panel. Paneled interviews are not uncommon; be ready
VIDEO CONFERENCE/ ZOOM − −
TELEPHONE
−
−
−
−
IN PERSON −
−
©2021 University Career Center
