Getting Ready for a Virtual Interview

Many times, the media won’t be able to get to your library to do an in-person interview and may ask that you join via phone, video conferencing, etc., to conduct the interview. The recommendation from the last article on location and attire when getting ready for an in-person interview are also true for virtual interviews that take place via video conferences (Zoom, Teams, etc.). Thanks to a training I recently attended called “Technically Speaking: Tips for Your Media Encounter” presented by Clint Fleckenstein, here are a few things to think about when you are doing a virtual interview. 

For Video conferencing: 

Preparation: 
With all the different virtual meeting options, you will need to know which platform you will be utilizing for the interview. You will also need to make sure that you have updated that platform and have access to it so you aren’t struggling at the last minute trying to log in or update it. You will also want to make sure your Internet connectivity is good, your camera is in the correct spot (more on this later), your microphone works, and you are prepared to answer their questions (more on this in next week’s article) 

Location: 
We discussed location in the last article. In addition to finding a spot that has great lighting and not a lot of noise, you may want to look at adding a branded background or backdrop. Avoid using a blurred background if you can.  

When thinking about the noise situation, you will also want to ensure that your computer is set to do not disturb to keep from getting notifications that could be distracting. 

Camera Angles: 
When deciding on your camera angle, watch your framing to make sure that the camera is not too high or too low. Webcams can distort you, so if you have a camcorder or other type of camera that can be connected to your computer and placed a few feet away on a tripod, it might help to make you look more natural. When framing yourself, you will want to keep the camera at eye level and make sure that you can see your head and shoulders.  

For Phone Interviews: 

There are pros and cons to phone interviews. The pros include not having to worry about background, lighting, attire, etc. The con is that you don’t get the “face-to-face” interaction. Make sure your phone connection is strong and that you are in a quiet area where you can concentrate on the questions and there isn’t a lot of background noise coming through. 

References: 

Fleckenstein, Clint. “Technically Speaking: Tips for Your Media Encounter.” Webinar, May 30, 2024.  

“Tips for Virtual Broadcast Interviews.” University of Toronto Mississauga Office of Communications. Accessed June 17, 2024. https://www.utm.utoronto.ca/communications/media-relations/tips-virtual-broadcast-interviews. 

Getting Ready for an In-Person Interview

Has the media called asking to do an interview about your cool program, awesome services, or new collection? I attended a training recently about the technicalities of a media interview called “Technically Speaking: Tips for Your Media Encounter” presented by Clint Fleckenstein, Autonomous Systems and Communications Specialist at the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services. Here are just a few things to consider before sitting down in person with a reporter, journalist, or other interviewer.

Location: 
Trying to find a space where you can showcase your library and also get a good recording is sometimes very difficult. You will want to make sure that the lighting is correct – not too much, not too little. Fluorescent lights, windows, and shadows can all have adverse effects when it comes to perfect lighting, so you may have to experiment with different locations. 

Another difficulty in finding the perfect location is noise levels. Don’t be too close to the doors where people are coming in and going out or the circulation desk where there can be a lot of distracting noises. Another thing to consider is how loud the HVAC system is or other background noise that you may be used to but will wreak havoc on the recording. 

If you are going to do the interview at your desk, make sure to clean up any clutter, personal information and photos, and any confidential information that you do not want everyone to see. 

Attire: 
When you are going to be interviewed, it is important to look professional. 

A few things to avoid: 

• Wearing black, white, red, or shiny clothing 
• Wearing bright colors 
• Wearing excessive or noisy jewelry 
• Wearing an ID or lanyards 
• Clothing you can’t clip a microphone on 
• Anything that is distracting 
• Repeating patterns 
• Glossy makeup products 
• Logos for other companies 

Instead, try to wear nicely fitted clothes that are comfortable and in solid colors, such as blues and grays. Light makeup may be needed to avoid shine. 

Next week, we will discuss getting ready for a virtual interview before moving on to how to give a great interview. 

References: 
Fleckenstein, Clint. “Technically Speaking: Tips for Your Media Encounter.” Webinar, May 30, 2024.  

Rosen, Max. “What to Wear for a TV Interview or a Video Production Shoot – Indigo Productions.” Indigo Productions LLC | A world-renowned video production company, April 24, 2022. https://www.indigoprod.com/what-to-wear-for-a-tv-interview-or-a-video-production-shoot.  

Thompson, Sophie. “Media Training Guide: Everything You Need To Know to Give a Great Interview.” VirtualSpeech, January 9, 2024. https://virtualspeech.com/blog/media-training-tips-for-great-interview.