1. What should someone expect when they have an entirely virtual job interview?
Preparing for virtual job interviews, is no different from preparing for in person interviews. However, candidates will need to be aware that the visual focus can feel more intense on video as the interviewer will be quite focused on any facial visual reactions/cues, unlike an in person interview where there are also body language/cues.
2. How should someone prepare for a virtual job interview?
Just like with an in-person interview, total preparation is crucial to the success of an interview, in person or via video.
Do your research on the client and the industry
Read the JD and prepare to answer each one of the requirements with important examples of your past experiences, resonating your own experiences with the JD.
Make a list of questions that indicate you carefully read the JD and have fully immersed yourself about the company/product/services.
Formulate your thoughts why you are interested in working for the company.
Always be authentic, don't pretend or exaggerate and never speak badly about a former co-worker or boss
3. What virtual job interview mistakes are common?
Some candidates believe it's ok to be dressed casual because after all, we're all working from home. This is a major mistake. The interviewer wants to see you as if you were interviewing in the office.
It is important to project a positive and interested attitude. Although you may be in your living or bedroom, it's important to maintain throughout the interview a most professional attitude as if you were sitting in the interviewer's office.
4. How should someone set the scene for a video interview?
Make sure you sit in a room where you have 100% privacy. No music, talking, or interruptions from those you share your space with.
The background should be clean, orderly, neat. You can show books or pictures or plants, but everything must be orderly, in place. Be aware whatever you show in your background will give your interviewer insight into your personal life even if you had not intended. Ex: books or art of interest or pictures can show personal status etc.
To keep things neutral, you can also choose a white wall with a simple object in the background if you don't want the interviewer to be distracted from the personal stuff in your room.
5. How do you make a lasting impression without meeting face to face?
Everything is about being fully prepared, being presentable, having an open and positive mind, showing interest and passion, and asking a few intelligent questions about the role. It is ok to show and express empathy about others when it is appropriate in the conversation, but do not expand too much about your own situation except in a positive way, when you are asked. You may not totally feel that way, but you want the job, and people prefer to hire candidates that bring good energy. Your facial expression and the smile/positivity you exude
6. What to do after the interview?
Always follow up with a thank you note, expressing your interest in the job. While we recommend hand-written notes, during this time an email thank you note will suffice. Do ensure it is personalized and not generic in tone and content.
Author: Damian Chiam | COO Janou LLC