Do you find yourself having lots of job interviews online? It can be quite a strange thing to get used to. Especially if you have never really done them before! There are quite a few differences you should be aware of so that you can really nail online job interviews. And we are here to help!
So, what are the tricks to really nail online job interviews?
Check Your Setup
To nail an online job interview, firstly decide on where you will be for the interview. You want to make sure that you are in a quiet location. So if you are living in a very busy house, it is probably best to avoid the living room!
Think about what your camera angle will be like, and what might be behind you. Even though it is an online interview, you want it to look professional, and like you have made an effort.
Neutral Background
Going neutral is definitely the right option. Do you have a white or neutrally coloured wall in your house? Sit in front of that! Try to avoid sitting in a busy kitchen or lounge with a TV behind you. If you are in your bedroom, make sure it is not clear that you are! So we should not be able to see any bed or bedding behind you!
Professional Outfits
Also, make sure you look the part. Dress like you would be going for a face to face interview. A video or online interview really isn’t that much different! So make sure you look well-groomed and professional.
Wear a fully professional outfit. If you are not sure whether this is a more formal or informal role, never risk it. Always opt for a more formal outlook and outfit as it will be appreciated! It is much better to go in slightly more formal, than too informal.
Test Your Internet/Technology
One of the big frustrations points of an online interview can be a bad internet connection. So make sure you test it so that at least you have found the best spot. Some areas in the house will have a better internet connection than others.
Set up a Test Call
So do a test run, with a friend or family member. This way you can test to make sure your internet will be strong enough to make a video call. You can also test any sound issues here. Do you sound very muffled, or far away? You should probably wear a headset for ultimate clarity. As sound will be as important as the video image!
Download The Right Programmes
A test run is also a great way to make sure you have the right programme downloaded for your online interview. Skype and Zoom are two very popular video and online conference call programmes. But they might well be using another programme! So make sure you check what the programme will be like. Download this on your device and do a couple of test runs so that on the day, you will be ready to know how to nail your online job interview!
Have Your Paperwork Ready
Just as in any in-person interview, you need to prepare any paperwork and questions you would do for a ‘normal’ interview. Have your CV and any other relevant documents ready with you. As there will definitely be some questions about that.
Make sure you have the job spec and any other information about the job with you too – whether this is on-screen or printed out.
Finally, make sure you have listed questions to ask. It always looks good to ask at least one question in the end, as it shows you have come prepared.
How Can Polo & Tweed Help
Polo & Tweed is here to help you find your new job! We are experts in the field of recruitment. So will guide you through the process, make sure you have everything ready and prepared. From CV to interview tips, and detailed job specs you are applying for. So whether your interview will be taking place in-person or online, we can help you nail the interview. Why not contact us now to see how we can help you and your career!