Megan Savary, Editor.
As the entire world is in the process of navigating the “new normal,” the job hunt is no exception. While we continue to manage the COVID-19 pandemic and fight a second wave, employers are continuing along with virtual interviews to protect the safety of all parties involved. With Mount Saint Vincent University students ramping up for co-op positions, the idea of a virtual interview can be daunting. Here are a few key steps to follow to ace your next Zoom interview!
Be prepared.
As always, preparation is key. With virtual interviews, ensure your technology of choice is fully charged, up-to-date with software and functioning properly prior to beginning the interview.
The mute button is your friend.
If you are hesitant about noise in the background, only turn your microphone on when you need to speak. This can cut back on the potential of any background noise occurring.
Master the “new” eye contact.
Building confidence to maintain eye contact during in-person interviews is a skill, and that skill is equally important virtually. When speaking to the interviewer, look directly into the camera. Silence notifications on all devices to avoid wandering eyes.
Your home is now part of your aesthetic.
As much as dressing professionally is key for both in-person and virtual interviews, virtual interviews give you a chance to set the scene around you. Choose a quiet, tidy and bright space to conduct your next interview. The background of your webcam appearing professional and organized is now just as important as your personal appearance.
Cheat sheets allowed.
Unlike in-person interviews, post-it notes can be effective in remembering to hit your key points and ask important questions. Remember to stick a note close to your webcam, so it does not look like your eyes are wandering!
Although we are far away from giving handshakes, following these practices is a good start to finding success through virtual interviews. Best of luck to all those starting their co-op job search and postgraduates seeking work! COVID-19 may have halted our in-person interviews, but our creativity, resourcefulness and confidence can still shine through a webcam and a microphone.
