With the growing popularity of video chatting software, such as FaceTime and Skype, the idea of conducting video interviews is really catching on. More and more corporations in various industries are adopting this method in lieu of in-person or telephone interviews.
The online format is particularly beneficial when the candidate lives elsewhere, as is more often than not the case with locum tenens professionals. What’s more, having face-to-face interactions can provide more insight than what can be gleaned from a less-personal phone conversation.
While you may not be asked to video interview with a hospital or physicians’ group tomorrow, or even next month, chances are you will at some point. To help present yourself in the best light, both figuratively and literally, we’ve compiled the following tips for effective video interviewing.
- Test your technology. If you’re not a regular user of FaceTime or Skype, then you don’t want the actual interview to be the same time you’re figuring out the program, webcam, mic, and so on. Give the technology a test run. Make sure it’s all in working order and you are familiar with how to operate it. Also, set preferences, including volume, so the conversation can be heard, but isn’t a yell-fest. Finally, video chat with a friend or colleague to make sure your Internet connection can handle the data load.
- Create a professional environment. Remember, the interviewer is not only seeing your face, but also your surroundings. Create a space that is clear of distractions. If you can’t find a clean, unadorned wall to be your backdrop, find a location that resembles an office environment.
- Check the lighting. Of course, you’re not making a feature film, but proper lighting is still necessary. If it’s too dark—or bright, for that matter—the interviewer is going to have a hard time seeing and reading your facial expressions. Shoot for a natural ambiance, and avoid sitting in front of a window. Not only could the natural light put you in a shadow, but outside noise could leak in, too.
- Be aware of body language. Just as you would be conscious of how you hold yourself during an in-person interview, be aware of your posture and behavior during a video interview. For example, avoid yawning and fidgeting.
- Maintain eye contact. While it may feel natural to look at the interviewer’s image on the computer screen, it’s better to keep your gaze on the webcam. This will translate into eye contact on the other end. Position your camera, whether it’s a part of your laptop, tablet, or as a separate piece of equipment, in such a way that you feel comfortable looking into it.
- Prop up your tablet or phone. If you’re choosing to communicate over a tablet or smartphone instead of laptop or computer, find a way to prop it up so you are not left holding it throughout the interview. Also, make sure it’s secured properly and keeps you in the frame.
- Exercise patience. As fast as bytes of data fly over networks these days, there could be slight delays. Wait a few seconds before responding to a question just to ensure the interviewer is done speaking. This bit of a pause will keep you from talking over each other.
Video interviews are not only a trend gaining popularity, but also an opportunity to convey your professional persona when being considered for locum tenens assignments.
For more advice on how to conduct successful locum tenens interviews, check out The Facility Phone Interview, Part 1 and Part 2.
