With the rise of digital tools and changes brought by the pandemic, phone and video calls have become a common and flexible way for companies to meet and connect with job candidates. Read our tips to help you ace your next phone or video interview and land the job!

Phone Interview Tips

Research your interviewers

Take some time to research your interviewer's role within the company. This can help you understand what they do and how closely you would be working with them. Additionally, having their contact information on hand will allow you to follow up with them after your interview to thank them for their time!

Review the most common interview questions

Be ready to rock your interview by practicing some common interview questions so you know what you might be expected to answer.

Prepare 3-4 questions to ask during the interview

An interview is a great opportunity for you to learn more about whether the role or company might be a good fit for you! Read our list of questions you can ask an employer in an interview to learn more.

Do a test phone call

Do a quick test call with a friend or family member to make sure your signal is strong and your voice sounds clear. It can also be helpful to let them know when your interview is and that you will be unavailable so they know not to reach out during that time. 

Dress for success

Even if a hiring manager can't see you, dressing up for your interview can put you in a positive and confident mindset.

Find a quiet place for your interview

Background noise during your interview can be distracting, so close any windows and turn off any loud appliances around you. 

Follow up to say thank you

Write a message to the person or people that interviewed you to express your gratitude and thank them for their time.

Video Interview Tips

Preparing for a video interview is similar to preparing for a phone interview, so be sure to read all of our tips above! However, there are a few additional things to consider when conducting a video interview.

Understand which type of video interview yours will be

There are two types of video interviews, live and pre-recorded (also known as a one-way interview). During a live video interview, you will talk with a hiring manager over a video conference platform such as Zoom or Google Meet. Pre-recorded interviews typically require applicants to log into a platform and answer a set of predetermined questions over video. Most pre-recorded interview questions have a time limit, so when you prepare, try to answer some common questions in 90 seconds or less. Try your best to respond to the questions as if you are having a live conversation with someone.

Familiarize yourself with the technology

Ask the recruiter or hiring manager which platform they are using to conduct an interview so you can download the technology and troubleshoot any issues in advance. 

Find a private, well-lit space for your interview

You'll want to minimize as much noise and distractions as possible so you can focus on acing your interview. Find a private, quiet, well-lit place for your interview so that your interviewer(s) can hear and see you well.

Have any questions about preparing for a phone or video interview? Text #Jobs to 33-55-77 to chat with one of our advisors, or click here to have the text message set up for you!