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With the increased number of first and second-round interviews being conducted virtually, it’s important to ask the question, should the way we prepare differ from how we would approach a traditional face to face interview?
Virtual interviews have introduced new dynamics to the hiring process, not only have they changed expectations around communication and presentation skills but also have brought into question the candidate’s ability to use technology and utilisation of various apps. While the core steps remain the same, there are new additional processes that need to take place in order to become fully prepared for your virtual interview.
Preparing well for an interview remains imperative for your success. Understanding the company, the role and skills/knowledge you require to do that role should be the bare minimum.
There are multiple online channels and platforms you can use to find out information about a company. The company’s Website, LinkedIn, Companies House website and other social media platforms, are a great source of information.
Since the inclusion of virtual interviews into the recruitment process, you need to take additional measures in order to become fully prepared. Simple things such as, checking your technology is working correctly (including your Wi-Fi connection strength), updating any apps you might need during the interview, making sure you have a suitable room with decent lighting and no distractions. Critically, make sure your background is clean and tidy, with nothing untoward on show.
Test your audio and camera, making sure everything works as it should. Give yourself enough time in advance, to replace anything that could be broken or not working.
John Marx, Director of Halliday Marx says “With extensive information easily accessible, it is expected that you utilise it. Conducting research prior to an interview is a necessary and non-negotiable step. You have multiple avenues that you can explore. Find online trade Press articles about the company and dive deeper, and remember if you’re interviewing through Halliday Marx, ask for our advice.”
Through a screen, it’s harder to build a rapport with someone than it is when you meet them in person. As a candidate, it’s of vital importance for your success, that you have the skills and capabilities to impress both virtually and in person.
Making eye contact with your interviewer(s) virtually is just as important as it is when you meet the in person. When you’re speaking to them, look at the camera, not at them on the screen.
Putting yourself out there and showing your true personality is crucial for your success when it comes to virtual interviews. It’s common for some roles to have multiple days of interviews, if you don’t stand out, then you’ll be lost amongst the crowd. Be charismatic, confident, chatty; you’re wanting your potential future colleagues to like you. If you’re nervous or reserved, then you’re going to struggle to build a connection and inevitably not progress through to the next stage.
Be smart, professional and presentable.
Dress as if you’d be going to work. Wear smart clothes (i.e. a nice shirt or blouse), if you’re a male, shave and if you’re female, don’t wear excessive make up or jewellery.
Avoid wearing anything you might play with or that might distract you. This gives the impression to your interviewer that you’re either distracted, not interested or don’t know how to answer the question being asked to you.
It’s important for you to give off the right people language during the call. Find a comfortable chair that you can comfortably sit upright in and portray an assured self-assured posture to your interviewers.
You can never know what an interviewer is going to ask, but by going through scenarios and answering questions you’ll feel more relaxed and assured when it comes to interview time. Practice answering questions, go through examples and explain situations you’ve previously been in. This will help you answer more confidently during the interview. Andy Halliday, Director of Halliday Marx says “Practice is a critical component of successful interviewing. By investing time in preparation, researching the company, refining your responses, and rehearsing your delivery. By doing this, you significantly increase your chances of performing at your best. The more effort you put in beforehand, the more confident, articulate, and well-prepared you will be when it matters most.”
In today’s evolving job market, it’s important to be adaptable, have the ability to think on your feet and present yourself confidently both in person and virtually. Virtual interviews, in particular, demand a higher level of self-awareness and adaptability.
Candidates must not only be articulate and well-presented but also take control of their preparation, giving yourself the best opportunity to leave a long lasting positive impression.
Building rapport virtually can be challenging, yet it remains just as critical as it is during in-person interviews. Candidates who engage with warmth, maintain eye contact, and show genuine curiosity are far more likely to stand out than those who don’t.
At its core, interviews are more than an assessment of practical knowledge. They’re an evaluation of your people skills, likeability and enthusiasm for the role.
Ultimately, preparing for interviews in today’s hybrid professional landscape is all about balance. Those who are adaptable, invest time into preparing properly and have a capable level of modern technology, position themselves as highly capable professionals. Qualities that employers look for and will make you stand out amongst the crowd.
At the conclusion of the interview, it’s highly likely your interviewer will ask you if you have any questions. If you don’t have any questions, it tells the company, you have no interest in them or the role…. So have some in your locker!
Always have three or four solid questions up your sleeve before entering the interview. Typically, about the team, company performance or what they particularly enjoy about working there.
If you’re struggling to prepare for an interview or don’t know what questions you should be asking, reach out to the Halliday Marx consulting team. We’ll help you prepare and give you advice on what questions you should be asking. We’ll steer you in the right direction.
If you would like any more advice on this topic, please contact us on 020 7096 8200 or email us at [email protected].
For the latest financial opportunities, company updates, recruitment information and career advice follow us on LinkedIn @HallidayMarx.
