Despite social distancing and the lockdown that COVID-19 has brought about, we appreciate you are still hiring. Elemed has created a guide that will help you conduct successful virtual interviews to ensure your interviewees are left with the right impression!
Tip 1 - Dress the part
It is very easy to fall into the habit of working in sweatpants and casual clothes as we are all working from home. However, if you are conducting an interview, wear what you would usually wear to work. This will create a good impression on your interviewee and give them an insight in terms of how working at your company is like.
Tip 2 - Pick the right location
Check your surrounding setting before an interview. Ensure that there are not any unnecessary props or distractions that will cause unnecessary deviation from the topics in hand. It is also a good idea to sit near your internet connection if you are aware the connection in your home is usually bad. There is nothing worse than buffering or time lags during an interview. Of course people are understanding of such disruptions, but minimise the chance this will happen.
Tip 3 - Check your audio and video settings
Always log onto the video call at least 5 minutes beforehand. This will give you enough opportunity to ensure your video and audio settings are working well. It is also a great chance to check the light settings to ensure you are seen successfully over the video.
Tip 4 - Look into your camera
It is important to treat video calls as though they are the same as meeting in person. With computer screens, it is very easy to look away or look at items on the screen which will cause distraction. Close any other applications you have open to avoid any such distractions. Look directly into the camera so the interviewee feels as though you are making good eye contact and are engaged in the conversation. Of course you are interviewing them, but an interview is a two way street and it is important to create a good impression.
Tip 5 - Create some slides
It is a great idea to create some powerpoint slides on your company vision, the team, the location and the role. Share your screen so the interviewee can get a great insight in terms of your business and culture.
Tip 6 - Include a team member or HR
Especially at second stage or final stage interview rounds, in order for the interviewee to get a better impression of the team or understanding of the company invite a team member or HR. This way the interviewee can get to know other team members too, thus creating a better impression of the business. It is also nice for you to get a second opinion on team fit.
Do you have an interview coming up?
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