Preparing for Your Video Interview
At Memorial Sloan Kettering, our recruiters often interview candidates via video to accommodate a candidate’s schedule, connect with candidates around the world and prevent the spread of illnesses, such as during flu season.
Video interviews allow us to get to know you without needing you to rearrange your schedule, travel to the New York area or trek in to our offices.
A video interview is just like an in-person interview. Our team will ask you questions about yourself, your experience and gauge if you are the right fit for the job and our team.
Group of people sat at a table surrounded by white walls with post its on them
Here are a few things to consider when preparing for your video interview:
1. Consider Your Surroundings
If you will be using a laptop computer, choose where you will be sitting for the interview ahead of time. Choose a place that is well lit, neat, comfortable and quiet.
If you have a desktop computer, take some time to look at the area behind you and consider what the recruiter will see. Also take into account the lighting. You don’t want the area to be too dark or too light. Generally, desk lamps or natural light from windows are best, as some overhead lights can be harsh. Place your computer or phone on a secure/stable surface. If you are using your cell phone, be sure you have this in a place where we can easily see you.
You may want to move or silence any landline or cell phones during your interview.
2. Dress Professionally
Even though you will not leave your house for your interview, it is still an interview. You should dress professionally, just as you would if you were coming into our offices.
3. Test your computer, microphone and other equipment BEFORE your call
When you set up your appointment with our recruiter, they will provide all of the specifics regarding the software and logistics of your video interview.
At least a day before your interview, test your computer, camera and microphone to be sure everything works correctly, necessary software is updated and you are familiar with how to navigate the call. By doing all of these checks at least a day ahead of time, you will have amble time to address any problems.
Not all computers have microphones, so be prepared to identify the dial-in number and be on the line for your video interview as well. This will be included in your video interview invitation.
You should also be aware of where the video camera is on your computer, so you know where to look during the call. Make sure you look directly at the camera and not elsewhere. Also consider using a pair of headphones with a microphone. They may be helpful to reduce echos, background noise and other distractions during your interview.
4. Prepare as you would for an in-person interview
You should prepare just as if you are meeting with a recruiter face-to-face. Think through questions you may have about the job, team or organization, have your resume handy to refer to if needed, and have a pen and paper nearby in case you need to jot anything down. Be mindful of any nervous tendencies you may have, like moving in your chair.
At the end of the day, our goal is to get to know more about you, your experience and expertise and see if we have an opportunity right for you at MSK. We look forward to chatting with you soon!
Technology Tips:
We use Webex for our video interviews – please test the link you are provided in advance
In addition to clicking the video link, you must dial into the phone number to speak with us