The world has drastically changed over the past nine weeks. How we live, work and play has all been altered in a way that allows us to physically distance from one another. This of course, includes job interviews – which are now becoming online interviews. And while unfortunately many people are without work, there are many places looking to take on new employees. Amazon for instance is looking to hire 100,000 people right now. All of that is to say, if you find yourself lucky enough to have an interview request on the horizon, we have got you covered. We have curated a few quick tips to ensure your video interview goes just swimmingly, as we all adjust to this “new normal and next normal.”
There are obvious disadvantages to an online interview, but we are glass half full people over here so let’s take a look at the positives. You don’t have to wait awkwardly in a stuffy waiting room, there is no pressure for that firm hand shake, and best of all, you don’t have to wear pants if you don’t want to. Instead you’ll need a strong internet connection, a camera and a clear microphone. These tips range everywhere from logistics to how to perform your best, check them out! Of course, standard rules still apply, but these are some tips that are video interview specific.
Backdrop and Lighting
Make sure that you have a pretty plain or neutral background. You don’t want to have too much going on that will take away from YOU. Don’t have a pile of laundry sitting in the background or a counter with a bunch of dishes. Having a neutral wall, window, bookcase or wall art are all good ideas. Do have a well lit space, natural light and make sure your camera shows you clearly. Don’t set yourself up to have a glare or a bright light in your face. Also … even if you’re avoiding your children don’t take your interview in a dark closet. Feel free to do a test run by turning on the camera and see how you look on screen ahead of time.
Dress Professionally
At least from the waist up. Do your hair, put on some makeup and wear a cute professional top. Even though your interviewee might not be able to see your perfect highlight through your zoom call, you’ll feel confident knowing how good it looks. Remember to keep the camera at eye level and not too close. You want to be able to see your head and your shoulders, nobody wants to see up your nose! Hone your professional look for the job you truly want.
Lock Your Kids and Pets Out
Like earlier mentioned you don’t want anything to take away from you! Kick out the pets and kids, lock the door and throw away the key for the interview (if only it were that easy). If they are old enough, let your children know ahead of time that you’re going to need their cooperation for the period of time. If they’re little, ask your partner or an older sibling to assist with entertainment. For kids who are a little older maybe you can reward them with a movie or a game to keep them entertained.
At the end of the day, don’t stress too much about this, people are understanding that our lives are a little different right now and they’re probably in a similar situation themselves. And if your little one does make an unexpected video appearance – try to laugh it off; if anything it showcases a very human-side to you – a “working mama who can juggle it all.”
Have a Work Sample Handy
Make use of the “share screen” feature to provide samples of your work or walk your interview panel through a presentation. This is a great way to show your prospective employer your comfort level with working remotely and your ability to adapt to new technologies. Remember “Zoom” (or whatever method you’re using) interviews are not an excuse to show up unprepared. A little different from bringing print copies of work samples to your interview but, still allows you to highlight your previous work. Of course, don’t forget to copy-edit and make sure it’s perfect (even if you’re never hitting “print”).
Smile for the Camera!
This is so important. Since you don’t get the same “body language” connection online as you do in person you have to try a little harder to connect. So keep smiling! Look at the camera and not the screen! This might be a little awkward and you’ll probably want to stare at yourself but resist the urge!
So if you find yourself with a video interview in your calendar, good luck! If you’re looking for a career change and hoping to gain an interview soon, keep these tips close and we’re thinking of you! Remember to be authentic and let your personality shine through, in many cases employers are looking for a “fit” rather than someone who checks all the boxes. If you’re looking for some more career related advice right now, check out these five books that will help you boost your performance. Stay well ladies. ✌️
