Webcam Interview – Got the Wits to Pass Through this? 

There was a time when a strong resume and impressive qualifications could easily fetch you a rendezvous with recruiters. That was a long, long ago. Today, if your e-resume has the muster to pass through the keyword search algorithm of a company, you might get a chance to create an impression; this time, not in person, but though webcam interview right from your living room. 

 

Sounds new to you?
 

Well, if you wish to keep pace with the constantly changing work environment and the increasing competition, you must be equipped with electronic tools to keep yourself “alive” in the job world. 

 

Even before the recession, employers toyed with the idea of online interviews. Many had begun to use webcam as the “savior” tool that could systematize and speed up the recruitment process. At that time, it was viewed more as a trendy gadget that reflected sophistication of the company. Today, it is viewed as a great tool to cut down on recruitment costs for a company. 

 

Two formats of webcam interview
 

Live two-way – This is pretty much like face-to-face interaction. The interviewer asks you questions and you answer sitting in front of a web camera, just like you would sit in the office of the employer. 

 

One-way video-on-demand – Employers are increasingly favoring this kind of interview. Here, you log on to a site that presents you with a set of questions. You are required to answer them and record them in a timed manner. 

 

The other kind, which is the webcam interview, not only saves money, but also lets recruiters do a comparative study of the candidates. It is possible to see 5 candidates side by side on the computer screen. Employers can flip through their answers and analyze attributes like their behavior, presence of mind, knowledge, attitude, nervous quotient, confidence, communication skills, and overall personality much better and in a time-saving way. 

 

Video-on demand eradicates one of the most awkward parts of interviewing when the employer forgets who said what. This creates a challenge in the selection process. 

 

Viewing different videos of different candidates at the same time helps employers to spot exact differences, strengths, and weaknesses. 

 

Sounds intimidating?
 

It probably should. It also raises the competition. Now you cannot do away with small glitches during an interview. This is webcam interview; it captures each expression of your face; every word you utter. You need to be perfect – not a bit less – to grab your chance. 

 

The motto of webcam interviewing is to skim down from a list of candidates to only one or two who are successful in convincing the employers that they have what it takes to meet them in person. 

 

So, it is time to get rid of blabber. Time your responses. Be crisp and precise in your answers. Arrange those lightings. Raid your wardrobe for the best clothes. Organize your background. Switch your mobile and hush off your pets and kids for a while. Clear your throat and give your best smile…the webcam interview is on…