It’s day 12 of my F.O.O.D. Advent Calendar and today I’d like you to use PEPPER to add flavour to your online interviews.

Preparation is crucial both for yourself and your subject.  Little things such as what you’re going to wear.  Knowing about the organisation and what it is about them that really lights your fire. All these things quieten your self talk as they’re things that you don’t need to worry about.

Think about your environment!  Try and make sure, if you can, to have a plain wall behind you.  It means that the focus is on you rather than any distractions

Proofread your CV.  It may seem silly but really know your CV inside out so that you can answer any question without doubt

Practice, practice, practice  questions that you think you may get asked and those you’d like to ask the recruiter.  Record yourself so that you can review how you come across and make changes as necessary

Equipment – what I mean by this is use a laptop or desk top for the interview rather than your phone wherever possible.  I’d also turn off your view of self so that you can concentrate on the interviewers.

Record your interview when you’re practising it so that you can check on things like fidgeting, where you’re looking etc.  I have a post it note next to the camera saying ‘look here’ as a reminder.