Definition
As the name suggests, Remote Interviews are a type of test, where you will be interviewed by someone who is not in the same room. So, instead of having to write a report or documenting your testing in screenshots and screencasts, you will have a conversation through Skype or similar Voice-over-IP (VoIP) applications. As facial expressions often help understand each other, these interviews can sometimes also take the form of video calls. Sometimes, interviews will be recorded by the interviewer for later reference, so that they can focus on talking to you without having to worry about writing down everything at the same time.
The interviews will either be moderated by a Birdmaster from Testbirds or by the client. In both cases, a Birdmaster from Testbirds will usually join the call and help in case of questions or issues.
The advantage of this kind of testing is that it allows a more natural conversation: Both you and the interviewer can immediately address anything that’s unclear. It’s an informal conversation where there are no wrong answers. At the same time you don’t have to go anywhere to meet up with them, but can still test from the comfort of your home. Testbirds wants to protect your privacy as much as possible during the interview, so we’ll only share your personal information with the client if absolutely necessary and after getting your permission. Please also take care not to mention any unwanted personal details during your video, as it may not be possible to edit them out.
So, as you see, while Remote Interviews might seem unusual at first, they are actually easier and faster than most other tests because you don’t have to write a report. At the same time, the average hourly payout is usually a lot higher.
Preparation
To participate in Remote Interviews you will usually need the following technical setup on your computer:
microphone, ideally a headset. It’s absolutely necessary that we can hear each other perfectly.
webcam (if one is necessary, this will be specified in the instructions)
stable Internet connection and a decent bandwidth (we recommend 1Mbit/s for upload and 10Mbit/s for download), as the combination of audio, video and your shared screen can create quite a load
the free software through which the interview is done, e.g. Skype. We’ll let you know beforehand which one it is and where to get it
If you are using the Voice-over-IP application for the first time, let us know, so we can provide additional help or even do a quick test run with you, if necessary
Avoid any disruptions and create a proper working environment: For example, be careful that the audio recording is not disturbed by background noise (TV, traffic).
If the interview requires you to share your screen, please make sure to close any unnecessary or distracting programmes in the background
We’ll make sure to share all relevant information with you beforehand, so you are well prepared
Be ready at least 5 minutes before the interview. You can usually already dial in, “meet” the Birdmaster and make sure the technical setup is working.
Recording the interview
It may be necessary to record the interview (your sound, webcam and screen) for later evaluation, because it’s usually too much to write down during the interview. There are sometimes several interviews happening in a single day, so interviewers can use recordings to refresh their memory or compare answers. We respect your privacy: Without your permission, recordings will not be used for any purposes other than those mentioned above.
Testbirds or the client will take care of the recording, so you don’t have to bother and can focus on the conversation.
During the Interview
Please speak loudly, clearly and make sure to help others understand your statements.
Often there is a slight delay in audio so please take your time whilst speaking by taking a moment between making points. This will allow the interviewer to dig deeper into your answer, if desired.
There are no wrong replies, just answer all questions truthfully/according to your opinion.
Don’t be afraid to give constructive criticism of the software that’s being tested. Clients are grateful for all your suggestions, if it helps them improve their product.
*These are general guidelines. However, individual tests can be exceptions and instructions by the Birdmasters overrule these guidelines in specific cases.