Congrats, you have got an interview, and you’re ready for the next steps. The essential part of the hiring process is the in-person or, in this case, online interview. This is your time to shine and give the hiring manager a synopsis of the type of worker you are. We will provide you, the interviewee, with some tips and advice on how to nail that interview and land a job!
Here are a few tips from our Recruiting Manager, Liz Harland-Davidson.
Set up the environment.
First things first is adapting to the online environment. Relax, focus, and treat it just like an in-person interview. The interview objective is for the hiring manager to get to know the person behind the resume. Use this time to show off the best version of yourself. Before the meeting, make sure you have these four essentials set-up beforehand, lights, technology, your outfit, and background!
Lighting:
Set the camera up in a well-lit room. Natural lighting is typically best, so setting up your computer next to a window and preventing shadows will be ideal. If a window isn’t accessible, you can also grab a desk lamp and shine it onto your face but make sure it isn’t too bright, or else there will be too much exposure.
Technology:
Your worst nightmare during an interview would probably be tech issues like your microphone not working or losing the link! Before your interview, have a test run and make sure your computer, microphone, and camera are operating. A few minutes prior, test the link that was shared with you from the company. Some options include Zoom, Google Hangout, or FaceTime. If the app asks for an update, make sure you have time to download the latest version.
Attire:
The next thing to look for is what to wear to your interview. Ensure that you are representing yourself and dress for success. Luckily for online interviews, your interviewer will only see you from the waist up. For men, a recommendation would be to dress in office attire, like a suit and tie. For women, wear what makes you feel confident. A few suggestions would be a nice blouse, a dress, or possibly a blazer.
Background:
Set up your interview in a space with little to no distractions in the background. Be aware of your surroundings; if there is anything in the room you wouldn’t want people to see like, a pile of clothes, TV on, or offensive signs, make sure to take them down in advance. Also, put your device on a do-not-disturb to prevent any notification bells from popping up.
During your interview
Elevator Pitch
This is your time to share what you didn’t have space for in your resume. Your elevator pitch is everything you would say to the owner of your dream job! How you present yourself is crucial during this time. Highlight why you are the appropriate candidate. What previous experiences and skills fit with the position you are applying for? What will you take from your last job, volunteer opportunity, or clubs and bring to the company?
Why are you interested in working with us?
During this portion of the interview, ensure you have done sufficient research on the company you want to work for. Find something unique about the company itself or the culture and say how you would be a good fit. Other questions to consider are what you have to offer the company and how you can help the company.
What drives/motivates you?
During this portion of the interview, think about what gets you excited. You can use this question to highlight one of your skills and how you use it to get the job done.
Have your questions ready.
What hiring managers want to know is if you are engaged. When an interviewer asks if you have any questions for them, have some prepared. This will show them that you are invested in the company and are not there because you have to be. Do some research beforehand on their LinkedIn or company website.
Closing your interview
Tone
Relax and smile! Sometimes I find looking directly into the camera a bit awkward at first. However, how would you address the party-in person? You’d look them in the eye, smile, and approach the conversation in a direct but warm manner. Get to know the interviewer, and allow them to get a sense of you. You should be assessed just as much as they are if the job/company is a fit for you.
Has the conversation gone off-topic?
If you find the conversation has gone off-topic, you can transition with something like; I feel like I could talk to you all day about ___; however, I want to be respectful of your time. Did I answer your last question completely? It shows respect and your ability to keep the conversation on track
Best way to close the interview
When the interview is about to close, ask them if they have any feedback for you. This could present an opportunity to speak about an area you haven’t addressed. Keep your communication informative yet concise, and thank them for their time.
“Let’s connect! Stay in touch with me for future opportunities“
