 In
this day and age, often times a first
interview is conducted via the telephone,
and before long it will be via web cam.
Preparation for these interviews, which are
sometimes only preliminary screenings, and
others times could be the final step with a
CEO that could not meet you directly due to
time constraints, are every bit as critical
as a face to face meeting. It is human
nature for people to try to visualize what
you look like based on your accent, voice
inflection, energy, and your choice of
words. You want to present yourself in the
best light don’t you?
A few simple suggestions that may improve
your “audio-visual”:
- Smile
when you talk! Try it; you would be
amazed at how different you sound. And
they can see it! You will sound like a
happy, upbeat, optimistic, and fun to
work with kind of person.
- Stand
up! Put your hands on your hips if you
can, or talk with your hands. This
definitely brings energy to your voice.
- Dress
for the interview! I don’t mean coat and
tie, but not pajamas either. You’ll find
yourself getting a little too
comfortable, and may let your guard down
more easily.
- Never
eat or drink or smoke! Believe me, it’s
disrespectful, and they can hear it.
- Shut the
door. Background noises can not only
distract you, the interviewer may be
distracted by this as well. Find a quiet
place, and make sure everyone in your
house knows you “are in an interview”.
- Avoid
using your cell phone if you can; for
obvious reasons.
- Prepare
as if it’s a face to face interview. Be
prepared to answer the stock interview
questions with confidence, and have your
insightful questions ready as well
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