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5. Video interviewing
This has become more prevalent over the past year. The recent pandemic and social distancing requirements have now fast forwarded the process and made it a necessity in many situations. We predict that it will increasingly become a regular part of many firms’ recruitment processes, even in a post-pandemic world, so it’s important to know how to avoid the pitfalls and how to perform at your best.
Technology:
- Select your hardware – always double check that your device is compatible with whatever technology your interviewer/s will be using
- Test your hardware – to make sure it works at least 24 hours before your interview is set to start
- Test your internet connection – does it work reliably in the location and at the time your are intending to have your interview?
Location:
- Chose the location for your interview carefully. Ideally you want a bright space but don’t sit with a window or a bright light behind you
- Think about the background behind you. A neutral, light colour works best in enabling your interviewer to see you clearly
- Make sure your location is quiet and that you won’t be interrupted
Before the interview starts:
- Dress and present yourself appropriately for the role you are interviewing for as you would for any real-life interview. All the same rules apply here. Also bear in mind you might have to unexpectedly stand up, so we would recommend dressing appropriately from head to toe
- Turn off all notifications on all your personal devices, including the one you’re using for the interview. In your device settings you probably have a do not disturb option
- Make sure again that you won’t be disturbed as the last thing you need happening during your video interview is have your cat or child jump up on your lap
During the interview:
- Don’t hold the device even the steadiest of hands will move at some point during an interview and that can seem unprofessional
- Make ‘eye’ contact, most webcams are positioned at the top of a screen, looking down. The result is that staring directly at the screen usually makes it look like you’re looking down or have your eyes closed. To counter this look at the webcam instead of the screen when speaking
- Act like you would for any interview and just because you’re performing a video interview, it doesn’t mean you can be less professional
Remember to smile and pay attention to your body language just as you would face to face. If you like speaking with your hands, just be careful about hitting the screen!
It’s also important to show your personality, the interviewer/s will want to assess how well you will fit within the team.
6. Do you have any questions?
The response to this is NEVER no! It’s ALWAYS, yes!
I always recommend that you go to your interview prepared with a few (2-3 is plenty) well thought out questions and write them down – there is nothing wrong with this. These could be specific questions related to any initiatives or projects that the firm has undergone that you are particularly excited about. Another good question to ask is, “What do you particularly enjoy about working for this firm?”
It's important to remember that this is your chance to gather any relevant information that will help you make a final decision, should you receive an offer, as to whether this job is that right fir for you.
7. PMA (Positive, Mental, Attitude)
I 100% live by these 3 words!
Think positive, stand out and be yourself.
No one likes a complainer, so don't dwell on negative experiences during an interview. Even if you are asked the question, “What did you like least about your previous role?” think about how you can answer this question by putting a positive spin on it.
Close on a positive note, if you liked what was discussed, then tell your interviewer/s.
8.Send a thank-you email
Write a thank-you note after every interview and customise your notes by referring specifically to what you and the interviewer/s discussed.
“Trust yourself. You know more than you think you do.” — Dr. B Spock
For further information, confidential advice, or a chat about the market and opportunities available to you, please feel free to get in touch with the team at G2 Legal.
