Videoconferencing interviews meld the personal interaction of a face-to-face interview with the cost-effectiveness of a computer. A candidate sits in front of a camera and interacts — in real time — with an interviewer who asks all the same questions she would if the two were sitting next to each other in an office somewhere.

Practicality

Approximately half of the largest companies in the United States use some form of videoconferencing in their hiring process. The main reason? Since larger companies often pay the travel costs of the employees they recruit (most often, those in more senior-level positions), videoconferencing saves the company huge sums of money throughout the year.

Preparation

If and when you are asked to take part in a video interview, you should prepare in much the same way you would for a face-to-face interview. The company will make the arrangements and tell you where to go for the interview. Let the camera operator know you want a head-and-shoulders shot of you (not full body), and keep your eyes directly on the camera, as if you were looking into someone's eyes.

If you are being interviewed in front of a PC with a Webcam, make sure you practice beforehand so you can see how you and your surroundings will look. The background should be some place where there is minimal movement behind you. Don't sit in front of a window where people or cars may be going by. Dress in something that will present itself well. Black or another dark color is always a wise choice.

If you're worried about freezing up in front of the camera, don't be. Two minutes into the videoconferencing, you'll be so busy answering and framing questions you'll have completely forgotten about the camera.

Some tips: Use face powder to reduce shine (this goes for men, too).

You might be miked, so be careful when you move or reach for something, because the sound blast will bother the interviewer. Write down the names of the interviewers and use their names when you're answering questions. Notify them immediately if you have any technical difficulties.