Any one searching for a job at the moment is going to face interviewing remotely, this article from HBR provides some practical tips on how to nail a job interview remotely.
Tap into your network
Hiring managers are looking for some familiarity so make sure you connect with your network and let them know what you are looking for. Remember that most people do want to help you wherever they can, don’t be afraid to reach out via email or LinkedIn explaining your situation and asking for advice as you search for your next position.
Update your CV and cover letter
It is good practice to keep your resume up to date, make sure you highlight how you worked in high pressure environments. Most companies right now are looking for people who can contribute to weathering the current crisis, so it is good practise to state you have relevant experience.
Prepare for your remote interview
- TECHNOLOGY: Test your technology ahead of time, if you are using a client or service that you have not used before you may need to download an application or create an account, do not leave that to the last moment.
- APPEARANCE: Look professional, try to choose a neutral background for the interview.
- RESEARCH: In addition to the usual research you would do on the company, look at what the firm is doing to respond to COVID19
Rehearse
just like any presentation it really helps to prepare thoroughly being clear and able to simply articulate what you bring to the organisation.
Positive Mindset
you need to take a positive mindset into the interview as you might not have as many non verbal clues from the interviewer as if you were in the same room
Body Language
Exaggerate your emotions a little to highlight your body language and tone. It is worth practising this with a friend to make sure you have the balance right.
Connect with Warmth
Aim to convey some warmth and potentially connect on a slightly more personal level. A recommendation is to follow the interview on small talk, it may be appropriate to ask how the interviewer and loved ones are doing right now, but don’t go into unnecessary details.
Ask Pertinent Questions
Ask the usual questions (What are your expectations for the first 90 days in this role? How will you measure success for the position? What am I not asking you that I should?) You should potentially also ask about how the role would be onboarded in the virtual environment.
Key Takeaways
- There is a lot of competition for roles at the moment, you need to make sure that you use your connections to help you stand out.
- Prepare thoroughly with a quality CV, presentation and that the technology will work
- Get into the best headspace for the interview and then nail the job interview remotely
Synopsis of an article from Harvard Business Review by Amy Gallo Published 22nd June 2020 https://hbr.org/2020/06/how-to-nail-a-job-interview-remotely