How to prepare for your virtual job interview
Many companies have learnt to adapt to the ever changing global job market. Gone are the days when employees would have to travel across the world for a job interview. At ITRS-Asia we are seeing an expansion in the virtual interview process, and even have candidates who have been interviewed using instant messaging services.
Dress to impress
Just because you are having a virtual job interview doesn't mean you should neglect what you wear. We all know the feeling we have when we put on our best business attire. It is that feeling we want to recreate. Also, it is incredibly important to consider the impression we create on camera - we want to show we care about ourselves and the impression we make.
Consider your background
Does your background look cluttered and untidy? Or does it look like a professional and organized working environment? Hopefully its the latter! It is important to signal to employers that you are responsible and organized, and that your environment suits working from home. You don't want to give an employer any indication that something could interrupt your workflow.
Look at the camera
Just like face to face interviews it is vital to make eye contact with the interviewer. When we work with candidates preparing them for job interviews we are keen that they understand how to truly connect with prospective employers online. Eye contact is a vital part of human connection. To make eye contact with an interviewer virtually it is important to look straight at the camera lens. This may seem odd initially, but invest the time to practicing this important skill. If you are using a phone or tablet try and get this raised up so that you are not looking down at it.
Prepare
It is important a virtual job interview is treated just like a face to face interview. You should prepare for possible interview questions, understand the role and company you are applying for, and have a structure to your answers. If you have notes avoid looking down at them, this looks very unprofessional. A little tip is to put some notes at eye level, and always look back at the camera when giving your answer. Consider using one key work or phrase on your notes to remind you of your answers.
Do you need any extra help?
We have worked with many candidates like you. Please reach out to us if you have a question, we are always happy to help.
Connect with Lucy, one of ITRS-Asia professional recruiters, here -
Connect with Eva, ITRS senior consultant, here -