Virtual interviewing is here to stay. There is a difference between in-person chemistry and Skype or Zoom video conferencing. Your pre-interview prep and how you frame yourself are becoming ever more important.
ProForm U collaborates with students and professionals to identify and practice the nuances between in-person and remote interviews and help you distinguish yourself from other candidates. The key is to create in-person chemistry despite the video distance.
One – Know Your Audience
For internship and job seekers, learn what makes the organization tick–its culture, mission and products/services. Scan the website for key words describing the product, service or mission. If you want to work for Zoom which describes itself as “enabling collaboration across any device,” describe yourself as “a collaborator and that problem solving in groups generates innovative ideas/solutions.” Give an example: “When I was on a team project in marketing class, we brainstormed together to solve X problem. Our out-of-the-box solution was Y.”
Review social media to understand the organizational values. Be sure to mention your research. “Your Instagram had photos of your unique way of marking the holidays. Sponsoring soup kitchens and committing employee volunteers year round is more important than ever. “Service is important to me. Working for your organization allows me to add value while supporting my personal passions.”
Two – Understand the Ideal Candidate
Typically, the job/internship listing will spell out requirements. Also, the website will have an “About Us” tab where you can spot clues about the culture. Is the language hipper and fresher or is it more corporate? If more corporate, that’s a clue to dress up for the interview. Speaking of fashion, be sure to dress from head to toe as if it were a face-to-face meeting. Your clothes positively influence your posture, voice and self-presentation.
For college applications and interviews, scan the school’s website for key terms describing the ideal student. If the school describes itself as “educating the global problem solvers of tomorrow” position yourself as “a student with an interest in how climate change will effect Central American populations in the next decade.” Be authentic—otherwise, you will shortchange yourself in the long run.
Study the school’s extracurricular activities and share how you will contribute. “I’m a varsity athlete and interested in studying nutrition. I would like to join the Wellness Council to plan healthy student meals —especially freshmen. I read in the school newspaper that the Council brings in guest vegan chefs and provides free cooking classes. It feels like The Council are my people!”
Three – Develop a Rapport
Look for clues of the interviewer’s interests and build a relationship from there. If you see a marathon finish line photo, ask the interviewer how often he runs and offer that you aim for five days per week. Interviewers admit and hire like-minded people.
Four – Watch Body Language
During video interviews, turn off the video window for yourself. It is tempting to check yourself out on “TV” while interviewing, especially when you are sporting interview clothes, but it can also be obvious… FOCUS on your interviewer(s) not your reflection.
Five – Understand the Video Tech
Creating the in-person vibe is moot if you encounter difficulties in your tech connections. Make sure you practice using the Zoom app to master functionality. You will be streaming video. Ensure that you have the internet bandwidth to support seamless streaming without annoying buffering. Be sure you have a neutral background that’s noise and clutter free. If you live with others, be sure your interview will be interruption free.
These tips can make or break your video interviews. If you want customized virtual resume and mock interview prep, contact ProForm U today.