In the past few weeks, I have been asked on numerous occasions if our job assignments are on hold. Some of them are, but a great majority are still in process, and most companies are now conducting interviews via teleconferencing. This may be the ‘new normal” over the next few months, but it has been a recent trend in interviewing over the past few years. Many people have never experienced this type of interview setup so it is important for one to familiarize himself or herself as to the process. Here are some tips on how to properly prepare:
1.) Familiarize yourself with your equipment
Make sure that you know how your system works, and conduct a trial run with a neighbor or friend to iron out any bugs and to practice your delivery. Make sure that you have a system that has a camera mounted on your monitor if possible. (More on that in a minute)
2.) Choose the proper setting
Your bedroom, garage, or kitchen is not the appropriate place for an interview. Pick an office setting if possible with good lighting and an appropriate background- shelving, books, pictures, etc. Do NOT have a background with all of your sales awards and plaques- tacky! And try to be isolated from outside noise like a cafe’ ( if any are open). If you have children in your home, try to arrange a babysitter for the hour that you will be interviewing.
3.) Wear a suit or relevant business attire
This is an interview, not a social call! Dress as you would if you were actually sitting down with the manager.
During the Interview:
1.) Look at the camera, not the monitor
If you look at the monitor and not the camera, your interviewer will be seeing you looking away. Most systems have cameras mounted on their computer, but make sure! Do a trial run.
2.) Please try not to show your brag book
That can wait until later. Maintain a good dialogue, answer the questions. build a solid rapport with your prospective manager
3.) Speak up
Some settings sound “tinney” Again make sure that you are in a setting with no background noise nor echos.
4.) Remember the message you are trying to convey, and not the setting you are in
Yes it is awkward, yes it is different, but concentrate on why you are right for the position, ask good questions, answer questions, qualify, and close! In other words, interview!
5.) Smile
Hiring managers love to hire people who are upbeat, positive, and ones who can handle adversity. Yes, this is adversity. Some people will use this as an excuse, others will make the best of it- and shine! You will get through this!
Remember to send a thank you note, and follow up with your recruiter! We are here to help you as you navigate through this uncertain period. If we can help you in any way, please do not hesitate to call us. Set your goals high and keep plugging away!
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