[Solution] Sharpening Your Interview Skills
Created at:
Author: Sarah Bennett
Job applicants generally face two kinds of interviews: screening interviews and hiring interviews. You will be better prepared if you know what to expect.
An interview helps the applicant .
View Explanation
An interview provides the employer with a concentrated period of time in which to evaluate an applicant's potential. Applicants should use the time to expand on the information in their résumé, gather information about whether the company would be a good fit, and determine whether the job suits their career goals.
If you want to ensure that you pass an initial screening interview,
.
View Explanation
Screening interviews are used to eliminate candidate who do not meet minimum requirements. During an initial screening interview, you will probably be asked about details of your education and experience listed on your resume, so you should be ready to promote your qualifications. If the initial interview goes well, you may be invited to a secondary screening interview and be asked more specific questions that are related to the open position.
What is the advantage for candidates in having a one-way video interview over a traditional face-to-face interview? Check all that apply.
- Candidates can practice answers based on a predetermined set of questions provided by the interviewer.
- Candidates can spend less time with the interviewer.
- Candidates can practice and perfect their responses by rerecording.
- Candidates can be interviewed at their leisure.
- Candidates can see the interviewer and respond to their body language cues.
View Explanation
One-way video interviews offer several advantages to the candidates. They are usually given a list of questions prepared by the hiring organization. They can be interviewed at their leisure without traveling to distant locations. Additionally, candidates can practice and perfect their responses by rerecording them. There are also advantages for the interviewer as well, including seeing the candidate, even though the candidate cannot see them. Spending less time on the interview is an advantage for the organization, not the candidate.
Types of Interviews Comparison
| Feature | Screening Interview | Hiring Interview |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Eliminate candidates who don't meet minimum requirements | Assess job fit and cultural alignment |
| Duration | Usually brief (15-30 minutes) | Longer (30-90 minutes) |
| Interviewer | Often HR personnel or recruiters | Hiring managers, potential supervisors, team members |
| Question Focus | Verification of résumé details, basic qualifications | In-depth skills assessment, behavioral scenarios, cultural fit |
| Format | Often phone, video, or brief in-person | Usually in-person or extended video |
Video Interview Success Strategies
Technical Preparation
- Test your camera and microphone
- Ensure stable internet connection
- Download required software in advance
- Charge your device fully
- Set up proper lighting (facing you, not behind)
- Position camera at eye level
Environmental Considerations
- Choose a quiet, private location
- Clear visible background of distractions
- Inform household members about interview time
- Turn off notifications on your device
- Have water nearby but out of camera view
- Keep notes accessible but not visible
One-Way Video Interview Tips
- Review questions first: Take time to understand all provided questions before recording
- Practice but stay natural: Rehearse answers but avoid sounding overly scripted
- Watch time limits: Be mindful of any time restrictions for each answer
- Re-record wisely: Use the opportunity to re-record, but don't aim for absolute perfection
- Dress professionally: Wear full professional attire as you would for an in-person interview
- Look at the camera: Maintain "eye contact" by looking at the camera, not your screen
- Speak clearly: Use a slightly slower pace and enunciate clearly
