Recovering from a Layoff

with Brie Weiler Reynolds

Interview Prep Checklist

Preparation Checklist for Phone AND Video Job Interviews

Pick a quiet spot to have the interview, and remove any distractions.

Turn off your computer, put away random objects on your desk, put the dog in the other room, and
shut the door so your kids don’t walk in.

Gather your necessary documents. The only things you need are a copy of the job description, your
resume, a list of talking points for common interview questions, a list of important info about the
company and your interviewer, and your phone or computer.

Always test your technology ahead of time, especially for video interviews.

Make sure you’re sitting in a place with reliable phone reception, or use a landline if you’ve got one.

Test your Internet connection for a video interview, and if possible, do a few test runs with the video
software you’re going to use, such as Skype.

Turn off the notifications, alerts, and sounds that might pop up on your phone or computer.

Teach yourself to be comfortable with pauses and silence. When you’ve said enough, stop talking
and give them a chance to chime in.

Preparation Checklist for PHONE Interviews

Ask a friend or family member to help you test your phone connection and audio quality.

Even though the interviewer can’t see you, make sure you smile! It will make you sound more friendly
and positive.

Have a pen and paper on hand to take notes.

Write down important names, phone numbers, email addresses, or facts about the job or people
you’d be working with.

Don’t use a keyboard to type notes because the clicking of the keys is distracting over the phone.

Recovering from a Layoff with Brie Weiler Reynolds

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Preparation Checklist for VIDEO Interviews

Before the interview, try to eliminate any technical difficulties that might pop up.

Get familiar with the video software beforehand and optimize your computer, camera, and
microphone for the interview.

Ask a friend or family member to help you test your technology.

Choose the best space for your video interview. You’ll want a room with a lot of light so you show up
clearly on the video.

Make sure the area that will be seen in your computer’s camera is clutter-free and clean. Try to find a
neutral backdrop like a blank wall or one with a nice painting in the background.

Sitting up straight helps you breathe easier and looks better on camera.

Look at the camera as much as possible, more so than the screen. To the interviewer, it’ll look like
you’re making eye contact.

Adapted from a sample checklist created by FlexJobs. Used with permission.

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