It’s important to acknowledge that your goals for a traditional interview (where you meet a recruiter or hiring manager face-to-face in their office) should be no different from your goals for a one-way interview. You should still be aiming to present yourself as a desirable candidate. Here are some tips that will guide you from potentially making any mistakes in your one-way interview that could cost you a job:
Skimming instructions
It’s always important to thoroughly read instructions provided to you, especially if you’re about to do something that you may not be totally familiar with. If you carefully read the one-way interview instructions, you can avoid delays in completing your interview.
Having people in the room with you
Try your best to find a quiet, private area to record your one-way interview. If there are other people in the room or nearby, it can be a distraction to you and to the recruiter/hiring manager reviewing your interview. The focus should solely be on you.
Recording with no audio
If you are using a computer to complete your one-way, make sure to verify the microphone you are using before recording. Additionally, you should always play back your first recorded answer to make certain that your audio and webcam are working properly.
Recording without seeing yourself on the screen
If you don’t see yourself on the screen when recording, that means your webcam isn’t properly connected or verified. Don’t make the mistake of continuing to record if this is the case.
Recording in a messy space
Be conscious of what the background of your video will say about your candidacy. Make sure to record in an area that looks clean and professional.
Not speaking clearly
Don’t force a recruiter or hiring manager to turn up the volume or strain their ears to hear your answers to their interview questions. Speak loudly and clearly so that you can be understood. It would be a shame for your one-way interview to be passed over just because the person reviewing it had no idea what you were saying.
Getting too comfortable
A great thing about one-way interviews is that they’re convenient for both employers and job seekers. You can complete your one-way from anywhere via your mobile phone or from the comfort of your own home using a computer and webcam. However, you should still be professional and treat the one-way interview as if it were a traditional in-office interview. Dress appropriately from head to toe; don’t pair your dress shirt and blazer with pajama pants and slippers. Also, now’s not the time to get cozy in your favorite armchair. Be aware of your posture and make sure you are sitting up straight to show that you are confident and taking the interview seriously.
Being unprepared
Your preparation for a one-way interview should be no different from how you prepare for an in-person interview. Rehearse your responses to the interview questions so you can sound natural and sincere when you’re ready to record.