We are living in unprecedented times. As the coronavirus continues to take its toll across the globe, with over 1 million infections worldwide,it’s clear that it is having a huge impact on our daily lives. The current UK lockdown and work from home mandate has affected the economy, affecting scores of businesses. The estimates are that unemployment figures could rise by 1.4 million between April and June. This has a profound impact on the employment market.Many companies have frozen recruitment and there are reports of job offers being retracted at the very last minute.
With that said, there are some sectors that are recruiting including fintech and social care. Many firms are still recruiting which also means that interviews will be virtual. As well as honing your ‘regular‘ interview skills , you also need to make sure you are fully prepared. Below are the top 5 virtual interview tips.
- Get Comfortable With Your Tech
Whether you are using Zoom, Skype or less well known tools like Signal, make they work well before the interview. Check your audio and video settings. Ensure you understand how the tool works. The last thing you want to do is try to troubelshoot an issue during the call. You will also need to make sure your internet connection is stable. Perhaps check with your provider to see if there are any issues in your area that day.
Close any browser tabs or applications, you do not want any notifications popping up during your interview.
- Find A Quiet Place
It goes without saying that you need to make sure you are in a quiet and well lit environment for your interview.
- Dress Professionally
Dress the way you would normally dress for a face to face interview. Research company culture to get a steer but for video calls try to avoid very bright colours. Resist the urge to pair your smart shirt with pyjama bottoms! Dressing professionally will help in getting you into that professional, interview mindset even though you are sitting in your kitchen for the interview.
- Maintain Eye Contact
You need to demonstrate the same energy as you would in a face to face interview. You also need to ensure that you are listening to questions and feedback. When speaking to the interviewer, try to focus your gaze on the webcam as opposed to looking at them on the screen. When listening to them, you can look at them on the screen. Looking into the webcam ensures that your eyeline is more in line with the interviewer’s eyes. Try not to let your gaze wander off to other parts of the room.
Smile and nod when listening , this shows you are attentive and engaged.
- Plan Ahead For Issues
No matter how well we plan , things can always go wrong. Plan ahead just in case.Take a number from the interviewer, so you can reach them in the event that your connection goes down. If this happens you can ask to reschedule.
We hope that these tips help and you are successful at your next virtual interview. Do you have any more tips or questions? Comment below!
