Career Counseling: Here’s How to Nail a Virtual Interview | Online Career Counselling For Working Professionals
Even in the midst of a pandemic, many companies are still hiring workers. And many are taking cautious, safe steps by giving video job interviews.
If you’ve never had this before, you may be wondering what to expect from a video job interview. Here are some tips to help you prepare and make a great impression.
Check your surroundings
When you go to a company’s office for an interview, you’re usually in their territory. But at Zoom, hiring managers are checking YOU out too – via video call. “Make sure the background of your set is clean, tidy and professional looking,” said Amanda Portillo, CEO and founder of Compass Career Guidelines and job search strategist. “Remove any distractions from view at home like pets.”
If your dog barks at minor distractions, consider keeping it in another room while you conduct business on the phone. Make sure you’re in a location where there aren’t any noises or obstructions in the house. Choose a zoom background that complements your interview and shows your personality without taking away from the experience. The fewer rental managers are distracted by things around them, the more they can focus on you.
Dress up the parts
If you’ve been stuck at home for the past year, you’re probably used to wearing sweatpants or pyjamas all day. But that type of attire would be a big turn-off for a potential boss.
Even if you are interviewing from home, you should dress as if you are going into an office or meeting someone for coffee. If you’re struggling to find the perfect outfit that still fits, consider going with a professional top and casual bottom.
Prepare the same, prepare differently
Keep in mind that you’re still in the process of a job interview, so you should prepare ahead of time for the position you want. “Study the company’s history, products or services, and corporate culture,” Portillo advised. “Prepare your answers in advance for interview questions and ask intelligent questions to the interviewers.”
Also, remember that not every step taken by another individual may be feasible for you to perform. For example, although you don’t have to restart for a zoom job interview.
It’s all too easy to get sidetracked by your own thoughts while you’re speaking, but if you don’t pay attention, it may ruin your entire interview. Take a look at your camera if you are likely to be seen by someone while you speak. Set up some trials with a friend or family member who can keep you on track. Check as frequently as possible using a strong, dependable connection.
After the interview, take some time to thank them and let them know if you were interviewed in person. A brief email should be enough, but these notes are still recognized by hiring authorities, so try to compose one within a day or two of your interview.
Remember how you got here
Many times, hiring managers are already familiar with your employment history and what you can do. The interview is therefore an opportunity for you to show not only why you’re valuable to yourself but also to the company.
“Don’t be scared of just being yourself – employers don’t want robots,” Portillo said. It means “smile, make a joke (that’s related), or ask if you can elaborate on an answer given earlier.”
Some interview questions are more common than others, particularly those related to your qualifications and motivation for the role. It’s important to practice your answers before the big day so that you don’t freeze up or sound awkward.
Javier Niskanen is a crypto investor who is passionate about helping others achieve success. He has a background in computer science and has been involved in the crypto world since early 2017. Javier is excited to see how blockchain technology will change the world for the better.
