How to Prepare for a Video-Conference Interview Conducted By Insurance Recruiters

Job seekers setting up an interview via Webcam.

The Ladders published December 8, 2009 By Karl Rozemeyer

The phone interview is still more common, but some companies prefer the video-conference interview as a way to size up the candidate visually before going to the expense of setting up an in-person interview, said Frank Risalvato, founder of the recruiting firm IRES Inc. For certain jobs where the candidate might be required to meet with customers, clients or members of the public, HR can use the Webcam to gauge the candidate’s presentation skills, he said. “I have got companies that specifically request that if a candidate does not have a Webcam on their laptop to go out and buy one, and they will happily reimburse you the $19,” he said.

1. First, some people are naturally predisposed to being comfortable in a webcam interview. Many are not.
2. For the rest of us, you can practice at home using any late model laptop. Most laptops designed in the last ten years (since mid-2000s) have built-in webcameras and video software. You may never have even used it or know how to set your cam up.
3. Practice with a friend or relative. Make sure you know where the software is and how to activate the camera
4. iPads, Tablets and even smartphones (Samsung IIIG to 6G and iPhones) all have camera technology but may be slower and more susceptible to cell-tower-signal-disorder! Use a PC or Laptop for the strongest connection if possible
5. Record yourself. You may be surprised at what you find and may want to adjust lighting or your position
6. Consider the background. Messy backgrounds can be distracting. A clean background allows you to be the focus.

Professional Recruiting and Retained Executive Search

Whether you are interviewing for a senior or staff professional role, such as an auditor, accountant, actuary, network engineer, field marketing representative … or an executive position … ranging from director to vice president or higher …. webcam conferencing is something you should practice familiarizing yourself early in your search so you are comfortable when asked during the interview process.