The COVID pandemic has changed many things in our world, including the way we work and interview for our next position. Currently, most interviews are held virtually. In order to make interviewing in this climate a success, we’re sharing some tips to help you make the best presentation.The “first round” of your interview may consist of a phone call. Here are some tips for making the most of that opportunity:
- Be prompt for your interview time.
- Find a space to converse that is free of background noise.
- Allow the interviewer to lay out the groundwork of the interview and be mindful of following their lead.
- Your tone of voice should be professional. Enunciate well. Remember, since the other party cannot see you, the tone in your voice is heavily weighed.
Subsequent rounds of interviewing will most likely take place via video such as Zoom or GoToMeeting, etc. In addition to the above, here’s some special consideration for video interviews:
- Make sure you will be presenting yourself as you would for an in-person interview. Dress appropriately and accessorize as you normally would when wanting to make a great first impression.
- Be sure you are conducting the video interview in a quiet space with no background noise or distractions and strong internet connection.
- Sit straight and exhibit appropriate body language.
- Proper lighting is essential. Sit in front of window or light source, not behind. Consider videoing yourself as a test run. That way, you can check the lighting, background setting, proper volume settings, and your appearance on camera.
- Shut down other programs on your computer before logging into your interview. You won’t want any beeps or notification noises coming through.
- Be prepared to have appropriate workspace that you can show/describe to the interviewer. They will want to know you have a professional workspace within your home if you will be a in work from home position.
Lastly, be sure to up your interview game with the following tips, whether you’re interviewing by phone, video, or even in person:
- Research the company you are interviewing with as thoroughly as possible so you have background information going in and can display knowledge of their mission, etc., if it comes up in the interview.
- Be articulate and succinct when describing why you are the best candidate for the job. Answer questions directly and don’t wander to another point.
- Describe real examples of your accomplishments/portfolio as they directly apply to the questions asked.
- Ask pertinent questions you may have when the opportunity arises. Think carefully and make sure they are specific.
- Show your emotional intelligence by being genuine in your passion for your work.
- Be prepared to discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected you and your career and what actions you’re taking to overcome the challenges.
- Consider those broad, big life questions ahead of time, such as:
- How would you describe yourself in 5 words?
- Where do you see your future career track headed?
- What contribution do you want to provide to the company/industry?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses? Remember, not being able to answer the ‘weakness’ question is a weakness in itself. Be honest and brief.
After your interview is complete, remember to send a thoughtful follow up email. Don’t just make it a thank you note. Re-emphasize what you have to offer and why you’re the best candidate for the position. Convey your interest in hearing back from the interviewer(s) politely and genuinely (not just because you need a job.)
We hope these tips help you in your next interview venture. If you need more in depth assistance from a career coach such as developing your job search strategy, mock interviewing, resume review, and pivoting to a new career, be sure to contact us. We’d love to help.
Wishing you success,
Marshall