In March 2020, the corporate world underwent a shift as the world grappled with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the most significant changes was the adoption of remote work. One aspect largely impacted by transitioning to remote work was the interview process. Hiring managers found themselves in a new reality, where traditional face-to-face interviewing turned into virtual meetings conducted via platforms like Zoom and Microsoft.
Fast forward four years, remote work remains a dominant force, however some companies are beginning to return to onsite work or adopt hybrid models. The interview process now presents a variety of interview formats, ranging from fully virtual to traditional onsite meetings.
Amidst these changes, one constant remains: the need for job seekers to stand out in interviews, regardless of the format. Whether it’s a virtual meeting, a phone call, or an in-person encounter, here are some tips and tricks to help you shine:
Before the Interview
- Do your research.
- Find out the kind of business the company does, how big it is, and how it has been performing. Check to see if they have been in the news lately.
- This is also a good time to research the person/people you will be speaking with and their titles.
- Review your resume.
- If you’re interviewing for a job that requires a skill that you haven’t used in a few years, take a few minutes and brush up your knowledge.
- Prepare a list of questions.
- If the client asks, “Do you have any questions for me?”, be prepared with a couple of questions.
- Dress Accordingly
During the Interview
General Tips
- Keep positive body language.
- Nod and smile to show you’re listening. Avoid fidgeting and touching your face/hair.
- Turn your TELLING into QUESTIONS whenever possible.
- This allows you to learn about them while also adding credibility. Once you learn more, then your TELLING will be more targeted.
- If possible, get the Hiring Manager to talk about his/her challenges.
- Ask what kind of a person he/she is looking for and why. Understand before you present yourself.
- Match your style to the Hiring Manager.
- Be sure to clarify and narrow down the questions if necessary.
- Don’t go on talking too long without stopping to check in with the client.
- Look for their PAIN (big challenges/what keeps them up at night) and then address it. Example: “What would my two biggest obstacles be if I joined the team today?”
Video Interviews
- Find a quiet location with a clear background.
- Join the video call 5-10 minutes early to ensure all technology and links are working.
- Familiarize yourself with the chosen platform beforehand and join the interview early.
- Maintain eye contact.
- Avoid the instinct to look directly at your interviewer on the screen while you are answering a question. Instead, when you speak, you want to direct your gaze at the webcam.
- Speak slowly and clearly. Show energy and enthusiasm at appropriate times.
Onsite Interviews
- Arrive early! Make sure you know the address and where you need to be beforehand.
- Maintain eye contact.
- Don’t take a lot of notes. If you get the job, you will have plenty of time to take notes.
- Leave your phone, laptop, etc. silenced and put away.
- Ask for business cards.
- Bring two printed copies of your resume.
End of Interview
- Summarize key points of match/strength.
- Ask your prepared questions if time permits.
- If it feels right, express your interest in the role.
- Don’t be afraid to ask about the next steps.
After Interview
Write a thank you note afterward. If there were multiple interviewers, write one for each.