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Virtual Interview Tips

Ashley Kate HR
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Adapting to the New Norm

Since March 2020, Ashley Kate has seen several changes in recruitment, the foremost being virtual interviewing. Some companies are unable to conduct face-to-face interviews, but they still need to grow their business and make new hires, therefore virtual interviews are needed. Holding virtual interviews ensures that recruitment efforts don’t suffer, and they allow flexibility for candidates who may be hesitant to attend an in-person interview.

You have or may in the future be invited to participate in a virtual interview, either on a one-to-one basis or with a panel. The most popular video platforms are Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex Meetings or GoogleMeets; but there are many more. If you are not familiar with the platform you have been sent to, don’t worry most hiring managers or recruiters will be able to support you accessing and using the software.

What are the benefits of holding a virtual interview?

  • Convenience Convenience

    Convenience

    Video interviews require much less preparation time for both parties.

  • Comfortable Comfortable

    Comfortable

    Candidates often perform better when they are in a familiar environment, allowing more natural answers.

  • Flexibility Flexibility

    Flexibility

    Video interviews allow a hiring manager to accommodate a variety of schedules. No more trying to get 2-3 people in the same location on the same day, thus reducing stress, travel, and any additional costs!

  • Remote Remote

    Remote

    You can be anywhere! Video interviews allow a hiring manager to speak to you anywhere in the country.

Preparation is Key

Preparation is Key
  • Be ready and waiting to join the call, try to clear your diary beforehand as much as possible to ensure you are focused.
  • A desktop or laptop is preferred, however, if this isn’t possible, mention to the interviewer or recruiter beforehand that you will be using a handheld device.
  • Make sure your device is fully charged.
  • Make sure your camera is turned on.
  • Check your settings, make sure you have activated noise reduction or grab some headphones. Don’t worry about how they look; the hiring manager will want to hear you nice and clear

Just like a face-to-face interview, you will need to prepare...

Just like a face-to-face interview, you will need to prepare...
  • Check your connection and remove any unnecessary devices from your WIFI. If you find you aren’t holding a lot of bandwidth, this will make your video interview less “sticky”.
  • Close programmes or downloads running in the background – especially any pinging emails coming in.
  • Pop any phones near you on silent.
  • Eye contact is paramount, smile and talk into the camera.
  • Have a glass of water nearby.

Look sharp, stay focused, and eliminate distractions

Look sharp, stay focused, and eliminate distractions

So, what else? Just like a face-to-face interview, you should:

So, what else? Just like a face-to-face interview, you should:
  • Re-read the job description (if one is available).
  • Re-read any notes you have been given.
  • Visit the company website – Often there’s a host of information available on there from learning about the company’s core objectives, culture and values.
  • Prepare for any role-related questions.
  • Remember S.T.A.R (Situation, Task, Action Result) when giving examples.

Can my language affect my interview?

Can my language affect my interview?

Face-to-face it’s often easier to “read the body language”, but virtually it can be more of a challenge. You may be more tempted to relax because you are in a familiar environment. Think about your posture and facial expressions.

If you lose connection, don’t panic. Reconnect and stay calm, these things happen, even to a hiring manager.

 

Good luck and enjoy the process, this is the start of a potential new career journey for you!

Contact Us

If you would like some additional advice on an interview you have, please feel free to contact one of our specialist HR and Finance Recruitment Consultants

Get in touch with us;

solutions@ashleykatehr.com
0115 922 3000

Unit 21, Eldon Business Park, Eldon Road, Attenborough, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 6DZ

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