We all know that times are changing, and how interviews are conducted has changed significantly this year.
Video interviews have become the norm and so we need to roll with the changes and ensure that we know how to conduct these interviews so that we are successful in securing that all important job. We at Nuvo Recruitment have had a good few Zoom interviews over the past few months and would love to offer you all some advice on how to make sure the interviews go well for you all.
Here are a few tips that we hope will help you show prospective employers that you deserve that job. And that you get that coveted position. Like all interviews make sure that you have looked at the company website, it shows that you interested in working for them, mission statements, recent news are all great topics to bring up.
Here’s the tech part!
Not all of us are tech savvy but this app is easy to use and manoeuvre once you familiarise yourself with it. Although Zoom has a mobile app, it is better to use it on a computer or laptop. Not to sound too obvious but the screen is bigger and clearer and if you have your computer on a table, the screen is stable, and the camera won’t shake.
You should turn off any notifications on your computer. Close out of any websites or apps before the meeting just in case an audio file or clip opens accidentally. Set the Zoom meeting to full screen so that your interviewer is the only thing you can see. Silence your phone and put it away so that you are not distracted by a text or phone call. Make sure your laptop is charged fully or leave your laptop plugged in during the whole interview
Get the newest edition of Zoom before your interview and ensure you do a full system update on your computer. Make sure your Zoom username is the same as your name on your CV, you want to appear professional.
Before your Zoom interview, test your internet connection and check that your microphone and video is working. It’s a really good idea to get to know Zoom. Test it out by having video chats with friends and family.
When setting up your computer, choose an area that is tidy and clutter free. Make sure that you are in a room with good lighting so that the interview can easily see you. Setting your interview space facing a window that lets in a lot of natural lighting is a great way to make yourself more visible. Setting up with a window behind you can cast shadows on your face.
Choose an area that is quiet and free of distractions, where you can shut the door. Close windows and turn off your music or the television. You want you and your interviewer to be able to focus during the interview. Remind household members that you are doing the interview and to keep the noise levels low until you are finished.
For the Interview itself
As with an in-person interview you should dress appropriately, this will vary depending on your industry and position, but you should wear business attire. You should look professional and not wear anything distracting. The focus should be on the conversation rather than your outfit.
Click on the Zoom meeting link 2-3 minutes before the scheduled time, but no sooner.
While your interviewer is speaking, keep your focus on the screen. Like you would in an in-person interview, show them that you are paying attention. Nod or smile as they speak or ask questions based on what they are saying.
Maintaining eye contact with your interviewer is a sign of confidence and respect. It might sound odd but look into the camera as you are speaking. This creates the illusion that you are looking at them rather than yourself or the screen.
Speak slowly and clearly. This will also make you seem more relaxed and confident (even if you don’t feel it).
During your interview sit up tall with your hands on your lap and your feet on the floor. Do not tap your hands or feet or doing anything else that will distract from your answers or make you appear nervous or tense.
As with an in-person interview prepare questions before the interview and take a mental note of questions during the interview. Make sure that the answer has not been covered already. Appropriate questions could be about the company’s culture, the role, and responsibilities.
It is okay to ask for clarification on something or ask the interviewer to repeat a question once or twice in your interview but avoid doing it a lot.
Just remember it is like any interview. You need to give great answers and ask great questions!
Good luck with your interview and if you ever need to speak with us at Nuvo Recruitment about interview skills or your cv please do not hesitate to contact us and we will walk you through it all.
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