Archive for category: For Students

Video interviews are a very efficient way for employers to screen applicants, which is why they are increasing in popularity. The keys to a successful video interview is preparation and practice to avoid technology problems and feeling confident communicating in this format.

There are two types of video interviews:

Synchronous interviews are conducted real time over the Internet and are used in place of traditional face-to-face interviews as an employer can still assess and interact with the candidate.

Asynchronous interviews are conducted alone, meaning there is no real-time employer interaction. The employer provides a set of questions and asks applicants to record each response by a specific timeframe in a video. This allows the employer to screen candidates quickly and determine who will proceed to the next stage of the hiring process.

10 Video Interview Tips:

• Conduct a trial run a day or two before the interview and set-up to confirm all is in working order (camera, microphone, lighting) as you would on the day of the interview
• Position your camera at eye level (not above or below) and look straight at it when responding
• Check your background so it looks professional (remove pictures, posters, etc.)
• Make sure that you are in a quiet space with no possibility of interruption (barking dogs, roommates, music, or other sounds) and make a do-not-disturb sign for your door if you’re in your apartment or dorm
• Turn off your phone and any alerts on your computer to avoid getting interrupted by emails or instant messages during the interview
• Use the same good posture you would use during an in-person interview, limit hand gestures, and plant both feet solidly on the floor for balance
• Pay attention to the lighting, avoid having any light sources behind you, and check camera angle
• Check your internet connection an hour before the interview to make sure everything is still working correctly
• For the interview, dress professionally, as if it were an in-person interview
• Be confident, speak clearly, smile, and look directly in the camera

In-person interviews are typically the last step of the recruiting process (unless it’s an on-campus interview) and can range from 30 minutes to multiple interviews on-site during a half or full day company visit.

Ten Tips for Successful In-person Interviews

• Prepare interview stories using the STAR format (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
• Research the company and make sure you are aware of any current events that have affected the company (mergers, industry changes, leadership)
• Review Glassdoor to find out what types of interview questions the company may ask
• Have questions ready to ask the interviewer
• Prepare answers to these standard interview questions:
  • Tell me about yourself
  • Why this company?
  • Why this position?
  • Why should we hire you?
  • 3 Strengths/ Weaknesses
  • Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
  • How do you handle criticism?
  • Tell me about a time you had to work on a team where the project did not go well
  • Tell me about a time you failed
  • Tell me about a time you had to meet a tight deadline
  • Tell me about a time you had to handle conflict
  • Tell me about a time you had a manage many different projects and priorities
• Arrive 15 minutes early
• Look your best – check out the Career Onward Pinterest page for help with your attire
• Take notes to remember key points interviewers made
• Send a personalized Thank You email to all interviewers the same of the interviews
• Write and mail, or drop off, handwritten Thank You notes the day after the interviews