By Chris Hillman, Recruiting Professional
SearchPath of Chicago, Inc.
searchpathofchicago.com
Virtual meetings were considered a convenience a few months ago for companies to bring employees together. Now, they are considered necessary to conduct business with stay-at-home orders in place. In the same vein, companies used virtual interviews when necessary for geographical reasons but now, they are necessary to continue the hiring process. Here are some tips to help prepare for video interviews:
- It’s still an interview: Just because you will not be face to face with your potential employer, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare as though you would be. Do you research, know who you’re speaking to, have your questions ready and do not rely on notes.
- Check your technology: With video interviews there comes an extra layer on uncertainty and that’s your hardware – make sure to check and double check before the interview.
- Internet – ensure you have a good internet connection. You can disconnect any non-needed devices such as cell phones, Bluetooth speakers, etc. to strengthen your wifi internet connection. Also switching from wifi to a wired ethernet connection may improve your internet reliability.
- Device – Make sure that your computer is charged or plugged in so that your computer/tablet/phone doesn’t power off in the middle of the interview.
- Audio and visual – Check your sound quality with your device’s internal speakers and if not strong, consider using headphones. If you’re device does not have a quality built-in camera, consider purchasing a webcam.
- Conference software – Be familiar with the software that the company is using for the interview. Not comfortable with it? Try doing a test run with a friend to have it predownloaded on your device and can navigate it well.
- Prepare yourself: Make sure you look the part and that you appear your best on camera. Take into the same considerations that you would for an in-person interview – know the culture of the company and dress the part. One pro tip – wear solid colors and avoid patterns.
- Prepare your surroundings: You won’t be the only thing on camera, your background will also be predominant. Ensure that it’s professional and clutter-free. Know what the noise will be and do not choose a room with background noise (people talking, cars, kids playing, etc.) so that it doesn’t become a distraction. In the same vein, ensure your phone is on silent so no incoming messages distract you.
- And Action! You’re prepared, the technology is tested and you are dressed the part and have the right surrounding. Now, it’s time to impress. Make sure you’re aren’t too close or too far away from the camera (ideally you’ll want your shoulders and up on camera). Watch your body language, don’t get distracted with anything on your desk and remember to smile!
Virtual interviews might be a new concept for many professionals, but just as though you can prepare for a face-to-face interview, you can be just as prepared for a virtual interview. With the changed taking place in the business world, we must learn to adapt to those changes and we’re here to help with those changes.
Good luck at your next interview!
For additional information, please email Chris Hillman or call (815) 261-4403 x 100
