Ever since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, people everywhere have seen their lives change in a wide variety of ways. Many people were forced to stop working temporarily, while others lost their job permanently. Either way, things have been nothing but difficult ever since.
Mental health awareness has never been more prominent as more people seek out different psychotherapy techniques to help them cope with all these changes to their daily life. It’s nothing to be ashamed of, especially since these techniques can help you get back on your feet.
Although the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to have an impact on this world, many people are starting to find work again. If you’re just starting your search for a new job, you’ll want to prepare yourself for a virtual job interview — something every business is doing these days.
So, how can you ace your next virtual job interview?
Virtual job interviews are the new normal in most businesses, especially as remote jobs become more common and popular. It might not be something you’re used to when applying for a job, but it’s what you need to prepare for in the age of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
As you attempt to re-enter the workforce, we have a variety of tips to help you get the most out of your virtual job interview. Whether you live alone or have a family to support, this interview could be life-changing — so let’s learn more about what it takes to ace your next virtual interview!
1. Presentation Means Everything
Just like any other job interview, presentation is everything when making a positive first impression. You’ll want to make sure you dress nicely and professionally before stepping in front of that camera — even though the interviewer will likely only see half of what you’re wearing.
In a normal interview, the clothes you wear are the main thing you need to worry about — especially since the interviewer chooses the setting — but things are different when in a virtual job interview because you choose the setting. Even if you’re at home, your background is vital.
This means your lighting needs to be on point, your camera needs to be eye level, and you need to ensure there are no distractions behind you. That means no pets running wild, no children being obnoxious, no loud noises from the television, and no one walking behind you.
2. Prepare & Rehearse Beforehand
Some people are extremely comfortable when in an interview, while other people get extremely nervous prior to the start of the interview. Either way, preparation and a quality rehearsal is key to a successful interview. In most cases, your interviewer can tell how much you prepared.
When preparing for the interview, make sure you read over your resume and cover letter that you sent over. You should also do proper research on the company you’re interviewing for. Don’t be scared to write down notes and have them handy once the interview starts — they can help!
When rehearsing the interview, think of some of the common interview questions that might get asked. Practice answering them, that way you’re not blindsided in the event they get asked. It’s also a good practice session, which can help you feel a little more comfortable before it starts.
3. Understand the Platform & Technology
Virtual job interviews are the new normal in today’s work environment. With that said, there are no shortages of unique platforms and technology to make these virtual interviews possible. While most companies make use of them daily, they each come with their own preferences.
For example, some companies feel more comfortable using Skype for their interviews, while others prefer using Google Hangouts. Outside of those two, many companies are turning to Webex, GoToMeeting, VidCruiter, Spark Hire, eSkill, Avature, Jobma, and so much more!
To ensure you don’t run into any issues when using these platforms, you should always do a ‘test run’ prior to the actual interview. Make sure you understand the platform, familiarize yourself with the technology, and reduce the chances of experiencing technical difficulties.
4. Ask Questions & Be Insightful
Once your virtual interview starts, you should first make sure you’re on-time. In fact, connect to the platform early and get yourself ready before the actual start of the interview. Have your notes in front of you and practice your little intro, that way it’s fresh in your mind before you begin.
As the interview proceeds, be insightful with your answers to the interviewer’s questions. Don’t be short with them, but don’t take up too much time per question. Short answers give off a bad vibe, while long answers make it easy for you to get off track and miss the question entirely.
Another thing many people don’t do often enough is ask questions themselves. You don’t want to flood them with questions, but you do want to show your interest in working with them. If you’re unsure about something or want to know more about something, don’t be afraid to ask it!
5. Always Follow Up Once Completed
Now that your interview is completed, one of the best things you can do is follow up with the interviewer to solidify yourself as an interested interviewee. This is something many people don’t do when applying for a job, so it’s an excellent way to stand out among potential employees.
Most companies won’t take the time to reach out to all interviewees once they choose their next hire. If you feel enough time has passed, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask them your status as a potential employee. You can do this via email or telephone, whichever you prefer the most.
You should also keep in mind that some companies take a while to make a final decision, especially if they have a lot of interviews to get through. Whether or not they’ve come to a decision, following up shows that you haven’t forgotten about them — which goes a long way!
Make Your Next Virtual Interview Your Last Interview!
Getting an interview these days has become a luxury more than anything else. Not everyone is hiring and those that are will face hundreds of applications. In the event you earn an interview with a company you’re interested in, make the most of it so it’s the last interview you need.
If the COVID-19 pandemic has made it difficult to maintain your mental health — to the point where you don’t have the motivation to start the search for a new job — reach out to a mental health professional immediately by contacting our good friends over at BetterHelp.
For those that are interested in more advice and tips when finding work during these difficult times, don’t hesitate to read more of our insightful articles over at the Daily RX Blog. We take great pride in helping you turn your life around and make the most of these hard situations!
