It’s no secret the past year and half has been a tough one! With a large proportion of business processes moving online, interview stages have been no exception. A virtual interview process has meant slightly delayed reactions, tricky to interpret body language and an overall feeling of slight disconnect for some. However, whether you like it or lump it, it looks like virtual interviews are here to stay with many organisations looking to incorporate them into their long-term recruitment process. But fear not as here at Clinic People we welcome change and the ever-evolving processes that it brings. We’re here to give you a run down of our top tips to smashing a virtual interview and motivate you to see the benefits and keep positive for your upcoming interviews!

If you’re someone who feels apprehensive about virtual interviews as a new process, encourage a mindshift from within and focus on the following benefits:

• You’re able to connect with wider pool of companies
• Feel comfortable in your own home/chosen space
• Save time, energy, and money on travelling to interview location
• Convenient and flexible with times
• Increase speed of the interview process

Dress to impress!

Just because you’re in your home for the interview doesn’t mean you can get away with your lock-down comfies! Ditch the joggers and ensure you’re wearing something presentable like a shirt or blouse, just as you would in a physical interview environment. Dressing the part will also give you confidence to give your best self and put you in a positive professional mindset. Remember, dress for success!

Prepare your answers

A great benefit to virtual interviews is you can prepare right up until the last minute. Whether you’ve made notes on que cards or in a notebook, you can go over your answers without being seen in a reception area. This is a huge benefit as you can always leave notes near by so if you’re struggling mid interview or feel slightly overwhelmed, have a quick glance over to reassure yourself. That said, if you would find this distracting then place your notes away for 110% focus on the interview.

Do your homework

Following on from the previous tip it’s important to wise up on the company’s background, culture and goals. They’ll be super impressed if you’re able link your prior experience to their current work. For many companies, a great culture fit is imperative to hiring the right candidate, so make sure you have a good understanding of their values and align them with your own. This will show them you’re serious about the position and can easily get onboard with the current team.

Finding the right space to deliver a fantastic interview

You’ll want to make sure you’ve settled on an environment where no one will interrupt. If you’re worried about any deliveries, then pop a polite note on your door asking the postman to leave the package outside and not to disturb. Shut nearby windows to block out outside noise as this can not only be distracting to you but also those interviewing you on the other end. Find an area with good lighting so those interviewing can see you clearly and make out your facial expressions. Make sure your background is plain and professional. We’ve heard interview horror stories of candidates sat in bed or in busy cafes, this is a huge interview no no!

Get rid of distractions

Ensure your interview space is clean and tidy, as a messy space is often a messy mindset! You don’t want to get distracted mid interview noticing a pile of clothes or old dishes. Try keeping your interview area clear so you’re only focusing on the interview at hand. Make sure your phone is on silent and preferably in a draw.

Prepare your device

Ensure your internet connection is working well, potentially think of a back-up if your internet is prone to dipping in and out. In the case of Wi-Fi issues, stay calm the interviewers will understand that this is still quite a new process which you have limited power over. As a back-up try using a personal hotspot off your phone if you have service. If this situation does arise those interviewing you may be judging on how well, you adapt in the circumstances so remain calm and collected.  Ensure any loud notifications are turned off so you won’t be interrupted or loose trail of thought. Close any windows and tabs that you’re not using, especially if you’re going to present or share your screen. The interviewers won’t want to see what’s in your Amazon basket!

Body language

Although you’re unable to shake the interviewer’s hand or give away as much body language as normal, what you do give away is just as important over the screen. Interviewers can tell how invested you are in what they’re saying by judging the body language you’re giving off. Maintain a calm friendly posture when answers questions and avoid crossing arms as this gives the impression, you’re feeling defensive or nervous. Instead project a friendly welcome and big smile when you first join the call. Ensure you’re paying attention and gently nodding along when the interviewers are speaking, this will show you’re engaging in what they’re saying and encourage more information about the job role/company.

If you’re in need of any help Clinic People here to support you and make the process easier.

For more information about our current vacancies:

Call: 020 3771 9662

Email: josie@clinicpeople.co

Visit our website: www.clinicpeople.co