Video and phone interviews, Ngā uiui ā-ataata, ā-waea anō hoki

Doing a job interview by video or by phone is a lot like being interviewed in person, but there are some extra things to think about when you’re getting ready.

Choose a quiet place with no distractions. Ask other people in the house to be quiet during your interview time. Silence any devices that may interrupt you and close any apps that might send distracting notifications.

For video interviews, dress like you would for an in-person interview.

Keep these things near you:

• your CV and interview notes to refer to
• a pen and paper for taking notes
• a glass of water.

Finally, make sure your computer, phone or tablet is charged or plugged in.

You might feel nervous or uncomfortable about having a job interview over a video platform like Zoom, Microsoft Teams or Google Meet. But there are things you can do to make you feel more confident before your video interview starts.

• Check your background is neat and tidy and looks professional – a blank wall is good. If you are using an online background, choose a plain or blurred one.
• Place your device at eye level and check it’s stable and the camera angle is good.
• Make sure your face is well-lit so the interviewer can see you clearly.
• Sort out your tech – know what video programme to use and how it works, and have a good internet connection.
• Test your computer and internet connection so you know your camera, microphone and audio work properly. Ask a friend or whānau member to do a test run with you before your interview.
• Look at the camera to make virtual eye contact with the interviewer and don’t forget to smile and be yourself.
• Body language is important, so use good posture and try to avoid too many hand gestures.

Employers often use phone interviews to decide which applicants they want to invite for an in-person or video interview. A phone interview may also be used for out-of-town applicants.

The call may be planned in advance or it could be a surprise call. If it’s a planned call, confirm the date, time and who you’ll be talking to. If it’s a surprise call and you’re not able to talk, ask if you can set up another time to speak with the employer.

Follow up a video or phone interview as you would for an in-person one by sending a thank you email to the interviewer. Have a think about what went well and what you could do better for next time.