The right look for interviews

There was a time when, in order to be interviewed, one had to visit the organisation for the process. But things have changed today as new concepts like videoconference interviews have taken over. So how should you handle this? Here are some tips that should help you ace the interview.

Dress right. Wear neutral, solid colours as they bring out healthy skin tones. Try not to wear busy patterns or prints or anything too revealing. Glittery jewellery will catch the light and be distracting to interviewers. The rule of thumb here about your dressing is not to create a visual distraction.

You will probably be given a venue where your interview will take place. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time so that you can relax and get used to the unfamiliar surroundings before the interview begins.

Don't be nervous about the technology. A member of the technical team will be monitoring the connection during the entire interview period. Should a technical glitch occur, someone will be there to take action. At the beginning of the interview make sure you introduce yourself to the interviewer.

Noises in a videoconference can be most distracting so do avoid tapping on a desk, coughing or shuffling papers — modern microphones are designed to pick up even the softest sound.

Try and remain calm and be as natural as you can. If you are constantly moving around you will come across as less confident.

Look directly at the monitor as often as possible when speaking. Smile! One of the greatest advantages of videoconferencing is the ability to communicateface-to face. Speak slowly and clearly and wait until the interviewer has finished speaking before you begin to speak. At the end of the interview, thank the employer for the interview.