How to ... handle a videoconference job interview

By KIM SLESSOR AND JULIE MIDDLETON

Job interviews by videoconferencing are the norm for many British and US companies and New Zealand will follow this path, says Peter Castell, the managing director of legal recruitment firm Hughes Castell.

Screened interviews allow employers to react quickly in a talent-short market and bridge the problems posed by distance in a post-September 11 world.

As well, the quality of the technology is going up and its costs are coming down.

Screened interviews may be a frightening prospect for the unblooded, but many of the techniques are the same as for face-to-face interviews - with a few provisos.

1) Prepare yourself. Videoconferencing has similar video and audio to that of a home video camera, so set up a practice run at home if you can.

As you will be viewed within a small frame, much like a television presenter, ensure that you feel comfortable and look uncluttered - pastel colours and minimal jewellery looks best.

Wear solids rather than stripes or plaids - they tend to jiggle around on screen. Red tends to bleed and white can glare. Think about getting professional advice on makeup.

You might want to try a service offered by the Auckland teleprompter hire and presenter training service, Prompt Service.

It's offering a free CD-Rom which focuses on how to get the best out of an autocue, but also includes useful general information on dress and make-up, the shooting environment and presentation.

Go to the Video Promotions website.

2) On the day, arrive early in case you're held up fiddling with microphones. Switch off your mobile phone, get a glass of water and arrange any necessary paperwork and props on the table in front of you.

3) The first couple of minutes are always the worst, because of the unfamiliar lack of direct contact - no handshake! - but don't let a lumpy start ruin an entire interview.

4) Speaking clearly is even more important than in a face-to-face interview as some quality of sound is bound to be swallowed by technology.

Remember to pause for two seconds before answering a question to allow for audio delay - the gap between words being spoken arriving at your end.

5) While the sound quality may be reduced, the sensitivity to sound is heightened, so avoid rustling paper, clicking a pen and moving your hands over the microphone. Keep your movements fluid.

6) Eye contact with the interviewer is essential, so remember to look at the camera while speaking, not at the image on the screen, and don't forget to smile ...

7) Avoid the temptation to lean over the microphone; sit as you normally would to prevent your posture coming across as sloppy or lethargic.

8) Your natural facial gestures are important ways for the interviewer to pick up on your inter-personal skills, so relax and use facial expressions.

9) If you are arranging the interview with the help of a recruitment consultant, ensure that professionals are managing your side of the videoconference.

Cath Keno, who handles videoconferencing for Wellington's CEO Suites, says "breakdowns through inexperienced technicians and a lack of pre-videoconferencing preparation for first-timers will hinder your chances of interviewing well".

10) The interview may be over, but don't discuss it until you are sure the line has been disconnected.

11) Like the internet and email, videoconferencing is developing its own etiquette. According to a story in an Australian Financial Review, the "virtual handshake" is just that - a solo hand waggle used by videoconference veterans. But it's not recommended for your first solo run.