Freelancers: Should You Decline Video Interviews?

Understanding the Importance of Video Interviews

No business owner wants to go through unnecessary stress. However, if you cannot handle video interviews, it may be time to reconsider your role as a freelancer. Video interviews have become a necessary part of the business process, especially with the rise of remote work. Unless you have a specific reason, such as a speech impairment, it is best to keep the contact with clients limited to text messages. Video interviews can provide a more personal touch and help build trust.

There are various tools available for video calls, such as cell phones and computer webcams. A cell phone’s video camera can be sufficient for a video interview, allowing you to engage with clients effectively. I have enjoyed all my video interviews, and even though I have entertained many hot female clients, it has never crossed my mind to make inappropriate remarks or advances during an interview.

Alternatives to Video Interviews

While I try to avoid voice and video interviews, they can be necessary depending on the nature of the project. For some tasks, an audio call on Skype is sufficient. However, if the client wants to see your face, they might become clients. In my experience, shared virtual whiteboards or coding runtime spaces are more common for remote interviews in software development. These tools allow for productive communication and collaboration without the need for extensive video interviews.

Declining Interviews: When and Why?

I do decline interviews if they haven't provided enough information about the project for me to show interest. It is a waste of time for everyone if I am not interested or if I am not available. In some cases, video interviews may be part of the process, while in others, audio calls suffice. My line of work, software development, often involves shared virtual whiteboards or coding runtime spaces with audio but little video.

Addressing Misconceptions

Many people might be hesitant to participate in video interviews for various reasons, such as insecurity, concerns about their appearance, or fear of not being taken seriously. However, it is important to recognize that video interviews can be a valuable tool for building relationships and understanding projects better. By addressing these concerns and focusing on professionalism and communication, you can overcome any reluctance.

Key Takeaways

Video interviews are a necessary part of remote work and should not be avoided unless there is a valid reason. Maintain professionalism and focus on building trust during interviews. Consider alternative tools like Skype for audio calls if video is not necessary. Decline interviews if they do not provide enough information or if you are not interested or available.

Conclusion

Video interviews can be a vital part of building a successful freelance career. While there may be valid reasons to decline them, most of the time, they offer valuable opportunities for collaboration and communication. As a skilled business owner, it is important to embrace these challenges and use them to your advantage.