We understand that looking for a job overseas can be both exciting and intimidating, especially when it comes to the interviewing process, which often times is over the phone and/or Skype. Here at CareerKnacks we want help this exciting journey go as smoothly as possible, including helping you to feel confident and comfortable during an international interview. Below we have researched and compiled a list of tips that will help your interview be a success.
Tips for an overseas interview:
- Although you are interviewing internationally, it’s important to remember basic interview guidelines such as; dress appropriately and professionally, research the company’s history, prepare conversation-provoking questions, and arrive ahead of schedule.
- It is also wise to research the country’s cultural etiquette. Basic mannerisms and social cues typically differ with each country. From attire to greetings and salutations, your attempt to understand and embrace the culture of the company you’re applying to work for will show that you are willing and prepared to acclimate to a new environment.
- Breaking the language barrier is fundamental in an international interview. You must be able to proficiently speak the language of the country to which you will be moving to.
It is not uncommon that an international interview be conducted via a Skype video call or a phone call and there are a couple of really important things to remember when having a professional conversation that isn’t face-to-face.
Tips for a video call (Skye or WebEx) interview:
- Make sure you’re dressed professionally and appropriately despite not meeting in person. In a video interview, the interviewer is still likely to see you from the chest up and you want to look presentable.
- Make sure the background of your video call is clean and quiet. The interviewer will be able to see the room you’re in and you don’t want any noises that might disrupt the conversation or make it difficult to hear.
- Make sure there is nothing in the room that might distract you during the interview. Keep your eyes on the screen and stay aware of your body language. Because you’re lacking the in-person connection, it’s important to emphasize that you are engaged with your body.
- Speaking over video chat can sometimes feel awkward and unnatural. Practice with a friend before the actual interview so you can become more comfortable with the camera. This also gives you a chance to mess with your equipment as to avoid technical glitches during the actual interview.
Tips for a phone interview:
- It’s important to remember that a phone interview is to be taken just as seriously as a face-to-face meeting. Just because you have the advantage of being behind a phone, doesn’t mean that there is any less preparation involved. Get up early, get out of your pajamas and do some last minute preparation.
- It’s best to find a desk or a table to sit down at while you talk. Pacing may make you sound like you’re doing something other than paying attention to the interview and also runs the risk of something distracting you.
- It’s very important to speak slowly and enunciate. It can sometimes be difficult to understand people over the phone, so just make sure you’re giving the interviewer the best possible communication from your end.
- When speaking on the phone make sure you give verbal signs that you’re still there and actively listening. A gentle “mhm” in appropriate places of the conversation typically works well to show that you are paying close attention.
- Just as in a video call, it’s important to make sure there are no distractions in your environment that will take your attention away from the interview.
For other resources on how to rock an international interview check out the following links:
Expats Moving and Relocation Guide
Live Career — International Job Interview