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Discover This Month – August 2023

The Modern Interview – how to prepare and be your best

As the employment landscape continues to evolve, so do the ways employers conduct interviews. In today’s modern world, video interviews have become an essential part of the hiring process. To help you excel in this era of virtual interviews, we’ve prepared a guide with valuable tips and tricks to help you prepare and shine even if virtually.

As the demand for remote work and global talent grows, video interviews offer a convenient and efficient way for employers and recruiters to connect with candidates from different locations or from wherever they are. 

 

 

Please read further…

Preparing for a video interview

We believe that a strong virtual presence can positively impact your chances of landing that dream job. Our guide is designed to empower you with the confidence and skills needed to navigate video interviews with ease. You’ll learn the art of effective virtual communication, including maintaining eye contact, showcasing your enthusiasm, and conveying your unique qualities through body language.

Tips to Prepare for Video Interviews:

  • Test Your Technology: Before the interview, ensure your device (computer, smartphone, or tablet) is in good working order and ready to go. Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection to avoid technical glitches during the interview.
  • Choose the Right Location: Find a quiet, well-lit space with minimal distractions for your video interview. Ensure the background is tidy and professional, as it reflects your attention to detail and gives a good impression. Set up a private space away from family life or lots of movement for the interview.
  • Dress the Part: Dress professionally as you would for an in-person interview. Wearing appropriate attire boosts your confidence and leaves a positive impression on the interviewer and shows that you want to impress.
  • Practice Body Language: Maintain eye contact by looking at the camera instead of your screen, this is not easy to do but just be mindful of it especially if you have a large screen. Sit up straight, smile, and use natural gestures to convey enthusiasm and engagement.
  • Prepare Your Materials: Have a digital copy of your resume, cover letter, and any supporting documents ready on your screen for easy reference during the interview.
  • Familiarise Yourself with the Platform: If the interviewer specifies a particular video conferencing platform (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams), take some time to familiarise yourself with its features to ensure a smooth interview experience and so you know where all the functions are in advance.
  • Conduct Mock Interviews: Practice video interviews with a friend or family member to gain confidence, receive feedback, and refine your virtual communication skills.
  • Be Punctual: Treat the video interview with the same level of professionalism as an in-person meeting. Join the call a few minutes early to show punctuality and eagerness.
  • Show Genuine Interest: Research the company, its values, and the role you are applying for. Demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm during the interview by asking and preparing thoughtful questions.
  • Follow Up: After the interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. This simple gesture showcases your professionalism and follow up skills. 

How video interviews benefit candidates

The modern interview relies on virtual communication and offers numerous benefits for candidates, making the overall process more accessible, convenient, and efficient. Many candidates feel more at ease in a virtual interview.

Here are some key advantages of the modern interview and why it’s easier for candidates:

  • Greater Accessibility: Video interviews break down geographic barriers, allowing you to participate in interviews regardless of the companies location. This opens up opportunities in remote areas or for those considering relocation, making job opportunities more accessible.
  • Time and Cost Savings: Virtual interviews eliminate the need for you to have to travel to an interview location, take public transport or park the car, saving both time and money. You can participate in the interview from the comfort of your homes, reducing the stress associated with travelling and the nerves associated with the interview.
  • Flexibility in Scheduling: Modern interviews often offer more flexibility in scheduling, accommodating availability and time zones. This allows job seekers to balance their current commitments, such as work or personal obligations, with interview arrangements.
  • Comfortable Environment: Interviewing from familiar surroundings can put people more at ease, leading to more natural and confident interactions. Being in a comfortable environment helps you focus on showcasing your skills and qualifications effectively.
  • Reduced Nervousness: Face-to-face interviews can induce nervousness.  Virtual interviews can alleviate this anxiety, as you may feel more relaxed and confident when communicating through a screen.
  • Improved Work-Life Balance: Video interviews allow candidates to manage their job search without compromising their work-life balance. They can pursue opportunities without taking significant time off from their current employment or opting for after-hours.
  • Reduces Bias: Video interviews can help reduce unconscious bias by focusing on skills and qualifications rather than superficial attributes. This promotes a fair and inclusive hiring process.
  • Record Keeping and Review: Recorded video interviews allow employers to review and analyse candidate responses at their convenience. This provides valuable insights when making hiring decisions or sharing feedback with the team. Note: make sure you have permission from all parties before anything is recorded.

Message from the CEO

I firmly believe that the modern interview, with its emphasis on virtual communication, has revolutionised the hiring landscape for the better. 

The benefits it offers to candidates, such as increased accessibility, time savings, and improved work-life balance, are invaluable. 

At Recruitment Central, we are dedicated to staying at the forefront of these advancements, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and innovative approaches to enhance your job search experience. 

We are committed to providing you with the tools, resources, and personalised support needed to shine brightly and secure the career opportunities you deserve. 

Embrace the future of interviews with confidence on screen or in person.  We firmly believe in harnessing the power of these technological advancements to create a seamless and enriching experience for our candidates.

Embracing this new era of virtual interviews enables us to connect talent from diverse backgrounds with opportunities that align perfectly with their skill sets and aspirations. 

I am dedicated to providing unwavering support to our candidates, empowering them to excel in their virtual interviews including providing resources to achieve your career goals. 

We are committed to staying at the forefront of innovative hiring practices, ensuring that candidates and employers alike benefit from a streamlined and efficient recruitment process. 

Stay well

Sandra

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