2019-2020 Purdue University Career Success Handbook

Modern Day Interviewing

T echnology has opened up many opportunities in the job search. It also has created potential problems in adapting standard professional skills to fit the new technologies now commonly used in the job search. Use these tips as a guide beyond the standard recommendations for interviews and correspondence.

PHONE INTERVIEWS • Prepare like you would for an in-person interview including dress and company research. • Identify a quiet space for interview and ensure reliable phone reception. • Keep drinking water, resume, a pen, blank paper, and a copy of job description nearby. • Bring a mirror or poster with a face on it and speak while looking at object to make the experience feel more like an in-person interview. • Smile - this will help you sound more pleasant and calm. • Take your time - don’t fret over silences and resist the urge to ramble.

VIRTUAL INTERVIEWS • Create a professional username. • Identify a quiet space for interview so you will not be interrupted.

• Ensure strong internet connection and appropriate software installation in advance. • Ensure comfort and user ability with the software prior to the actual interview. • Place webcam at eye-level, smile, and look into webcam when answering questions. • Be sure that your device is on a solid, stable surface so that the webcam doesn’t shake or move. • Dress professionally. Note that solid colors tend to look better on camera than prints. • Have a professional and clean background. A clean wall or bookcase works well. • Have resume and any notes on the position in front of you in case needed for reference.

EMAIL ETIQUETTE • When replying to an email keep same subject line and include salutation and closing. • Email thank-you letters are acceptable. Try to send a handwritten note, as well. • Use a professional, appropriate email, such as your Purdue email or Gmail. Refrain from using nicknames or casual titles, e.g., coffeefanatic86. • Always include a signature block. Ensure your email, title (for example, Communication Senior), phone number, and mailing address are incorporated. • Name any attachments logically for the recipient. A title of PetPurdueResume.doc is much easier to recognize than MyResume.doc. • Never negotiate via email. Negotiate via email. Negotiation should be conducted verbally.

48 Center for Career Opportunities