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Video and Phone Interviews

Both phone and video call interviews are often the first round in the interviewing process. They are extremely common and can be an excellent and efficient way for an employer to conduct an initial screening of applicants – OR conduct an entire interview. The phone interview enables the employer to quickly evaluate your verbal communication skills, knowledge and skills, and your interest in and fit for the position.

Video interviews can be conducted through a variety of platforms like Zoom or Teams. This can be a great way for you to interview for companies that are not close in proximity. Video calls can also provide the added benefit of seeing body language and facial expressions, for both the interviewer and the interviewee.

  • Pen and paper – It’s great to take notes. You can also keep your resume or a few notes in front of you to reference to during the call. It’s often helpful to write down your questions for the interviewer in advance, when they ask you, “Do you have any questions for us?” While you may want to end the call quickly, ask 2-3 questions to show you’re interested in the job.
  • Water – Getting a dry mouth is common when individuals are nervous, and this can give you a moment to breathe.
  • Quiet space with a plain background – Find a space without pets or children and ensure your background is professional and minimize distractions (avoid posters, pictures, clutter and opt for a plain wall). Find a place with good lighting for your video call. You want the focus to be on you and the content you’re sharing.
  • Business professional attire – This helps show the employer that you care and are taking the interview seriously.
  • Back up technology – If you’re using your laptop, have your phone nearby with any relevant technology/apps downloaded in case of technical issues. Always plug in your laptop or make sure it’s fully charged.
  • Test technology – Download the app/platform or test the link to the video call in advance. Also, check your internet connection prior to the video call.
  • Non-verbal content – Just like an in-person interview, your body language communicates a lot of first impressions to the employer. In addition to your attire, center yourself on the screen and look at the camera on your computer. This can mimic eye contact, which helps the employer feel that you’re interested. Sit up and lean forward slightly to show engagement. Nod or use verbal content to show you’re listening.
  • Verbal content – Indicate you’re listening and interested when the interviewer is talking by periodically commenting (“Great.” or “Yes.”). When you’re speaking, focus on clearly articulating words and conveying positive energy in your tone of voice.

  • Who’s calling? – Clarify when you schedule the interview who will call at the appropriate time and what phone number is best. 
  • Pen and paper – It’s great to take notes. You can also keep your resume or a few notes in front of you to reference to during the call. It’s often helpful to write down your questions for the interviewer in advance, when they ask you, “Do you have any questions for us?” While you may want to end the call quickly, ask 2-3 questions to show you’re interested in the job.
  • Water – Getting a dry mouth is common when individuals are nervous, and this can give you a moment to breathe.
  • Quiet space – Find a space without any background noise.You want the focus to be on the information you’re sharing.
  • Comfortable attire – Wear something that’s comfortable and gets you into the interviewing headspace. Some people will still dress up or a step up from lounge wear to help them mentally prepare to succeed.
  • Verbal content – Indicate you’re listening and interested when the interviewer is talking by periodically commenting (“Great.” or “Yes.”). When you’re speaking, focus on clearly articulating words and conveying positive energy in your tone of voice.

  • It’s possible that you could be interviewing with one or multiple people.
  • Avoid asking or discussing salary or benefits in this initial call. Ideally, salary should be discussed once the employer has extended an offer. Find ways to defer and discuss salary here.
  • At the end of the call, the interviewer will usually explain the next step – for example, if you should expect another contact from them or from someone else in the company, etc.
  • Have your calendar nearby in case the interviewer asks to schedule a second interview.
  • Make sure you express interest in the company and appreciation for the interview.
  • Sending a thank you note or email to everyone on the call. See Post-Interview Tips for a sample thank you note.
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