HOW TO ACE AN ONLINE INTERVIEW

One of the most prevalent changes the pandemic has brought about, has to be the working from home phenomenon – and virtual interviews have come along with it. Here’s how to make the most of one.

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Since the pandemic “most of us are now not only comfortable with virtual meetings but we have also become accustomed to the ease of these meetings – no travel time, traffic delays and late comers,” says Ellené Pienaar-Carstens Bizmod Resourcing Manager.

Even though some organisations initially struggled with operating online, most have either gone totally remote or adopted a hybrid set-up. For hiring purposes, “not only are you able to have people from different locations in the same ‘room’ but there is now the possibility for a more in-depth hiring process.”

Some organisations require prospective candidates to submit introductory videos or presentations before meeting the panel. Senior executives are now more readily available, plus more representatives from the organisation can quickly dial in to be present and review the candidate.

Some might argue interviews should always be in person: Ellené points out that there have been many wrong hiring decisions made in-person. The key to any good interview is preparation – whether it’s online or in-person.

From the organisation’s perspective, she recommends deciding in advance who will mediate the interview, who will handle various questions and what information will be shared. “As much as the candidate will want to impress prospective employers, there is also a need for the company to impress. They can no longer rely on the lure of glamorous offices, so they need to work a little harder to attract the talent they want and show them what they can offer.’

A few tips for candidates are:
•  Test your technology before the interview. Make sure your device is fully charged, the connection is good, you have access to the link and that your camera and microphone are working. If you are going to be presenting anything, test to make sure it will all work seamlessly.
•  Create a professional environment without pets and other people in the area. Your background should be neat, otherwise it could distract the interviewers from your answers. Headphones are a great way to further help block out noise to keep everyone focused.
•  Dress professionally, just as you would if you were going to an in-person interview. Eye contact is vital, and it is important to engage to build rapport.

Ellené suggests running a mock session with a friend. “Technology can be temperamental and can malfunction even with the best intentions and preparations. Have a back-up device and source of connection on hand in case there’s a crisis,” she suggests.

Lastly, she recommends that ending the session with a quick and concise overview of the value you will bring to the position will leave the interviewer with a lasting impression.