CDO Staff Share Digital Interview Tips
By Amelia Yeager
While colleges and universities across the country are turning to remote learning, Kenyon students still have opportunities for career development at their fingertips. In this time of social distancing and self-isolation, developing confidence with video conferencing for both job interviews and informational interviews will be essential. The CDO staff have compiled the following tips to make your digital interview experience a success:
- Make sure your visible background is neutral. A wall or door works well, but your interviewer shouldn’t be seeing a closet full of clothes or your favorite band posters from eighth grade. The setting should also be well-lit but not too bright, and definitely not backlit.
- Test the computer's microphone ahead of time by setting up a Google Hangout (or platform of the interviewer’s choice) with a friend to make sure it is working properly. Use a headset if the computer's mic is unreliable.
- Set yourself up in a quiet space and make sure everyone else in the house knows you are doing a video interview so they don't interrupt. - Jazz Glastra, Assistant Director for Career Development
- It may feel strange, but look at the camera, rather than the person on the screen.
- This is true of in person interviews as well, but it’s better to pause for a second than to use fillers such as “um” or “like.” - Maureen Tobin, Senior Associate Director of CDO
- It is essential to create a connection even though you’re not there to shake hands with your interviewer. Eye contact becomes especially important when using a video platform. That means looking at the camera rather than looking at yourself on the screen.
- The content of your interview rather than the technology should be the focal point. By practicing multiple times and having a good comfort level with the video platform, you will be able to focus your thoughts on the interviewer and questions. - Lori Gastin, Career Counselor
- Dress the same way you would for an in-person interview. This creates a good visual impression of you as a candidate, and it gets you in the appropriate interview mindset.
- If possible, use a wired internet connection (ethernet cable directly to your computer). Even the best wifi service can be spotty, and it's best not to take chances. - Lee Schott, Interim CDO Director
- Double-check which time zone your interview is scheduled for. Especially with remote interviews, you’ll want to be sure you’re on the same page as your interviewer, even if you’re on different coasts. - Amelia Yeager, Feature Writer Associate
- As you would during an in-person interview, have a notebook handy to take notes during your video interview. This also may be a place where you have your questions handy to ask when the time comes. - Haley Witschey ‘20, Career Services Associate
- For phone interviews, I would recommend having your resume and cover letter open on your laptop, as well as any other relevant materials you think the interviewer may ask you about. It can really help jog your memory when answering specific questions or talking about experiences that you had a while ago. - Julia Elrod ‘20, Career Services Associate
Although the platform may be different, digital interviews still offer a great opportunity to answer and ask questions of potential employers. Treat it like you would an in-person interview, and with preparation, the experience can lead to professional success.
The CDO staff is available for remote appointments, including virtual mock interviews. Schedule an appointment on Handshake to access these resources.