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03Nov

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused a huge shift in the way businesses interview potential candidates for new roles. Whilst some businesses are still holding face-to-face interviews, we have seen a huge increase in virtual interviews. Whether they are being held on Zoom, Microsoft Teams or Skype virtual interviews are now a major part of many recruitment processes.

Like any interview situation preparation is key. Obviously, you should still carry out your normal interview preparation including thinking about questions to ask the interviewer and preparing answers to questions you expect to be asked. Here are a few ways you can make sure you are fully prepared for your next online interview.

Test your technology

It might seem obvious but one of the most important things to do before a virtual interview is to check your technology is working properly. You don’t want to be cut off halfway through by a poor internet connection or have the interviewer struggling to hear you because your microphone isn’t on properly.  Why not have a test run with a friend or family member? Set your device up where you intend to sit for your interview and video call someone to check your connection, video and sound quality.

Be ‘interview ready’

As with any interview it is key to make a good first impression. Make sure that you are sat somewhere quiet where you will not be interrupted. It is also a good idea to think about your background. If possible, sit with your back to a blank wall to create a more professional setting.  Make sure to dress professionally as you would for a face to face interview.

Make sure that you are organised and have everything next to you that you may need. This could include a notepad and pen, a copy of your CV and a glass of water.

In order to make sure your online conversation flows well remember to speak clearly and slightly slower than normal. This should prevent callers from speaking over each other and will mean you can be clearly understood.

Ensure that throughout the interview you remain engaged in the video, maintaining eye contact with the interviewer and facing the camera as much as possible, even when taking notes. You should also think about your body language and how you are sitting so you can create a positive impression and show that you are fully engaged.

Finally, make sure that you are on time. Have everything prepared and be logged on a few minutes before the call so that as soon as the interviewer calls you are ready to begin.

A Practice Manager of a Lancashire Law firm commented that as well as being more ‘Covid friendly’ conducting a video interview allows the firm to asses the candidates’ ability to use technology and to see how well they communicate over video call. Afterall, it is likely that with these changing times successful candidates could be expected to communicate with clients virtually rather than in person.

Hopefully, these hints and tips will help you feel more prepared for your next online interview. Good luck!

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