If you need a job, you’ll most likely be facing increased competition for available positions. Admittedly, not the most encouraging position to be in. Apart from the impact the coronavirus pandemic had on employment, it caused many employers to adopt new technologies and practices for vetting job candidates – including integrating live Zoom and recorded interviews into their hiring processes.
Live Zoom Interviews vs Recorded Interviews
Live Zoom interviews are two-way interactions conducted online in real-time using virtual meeting or video conferencing software, like Zoom. These are usually scheduled by an employer and may involve more than one person interviewing a candidate (called a panel interview).
A recorded interview is a one-way session in which a candidate records themselves answering a set of interview questions, usually on platforms like HireVue, Jobvite, or Montage. While this allows for flexibility for both the interviewer and interviewee, it doesn’t allow a candidate to interact with their audience by asking questions or reading body language.
How to Prepare for a Zoom Interview
Regardless of whether it’s a recorded or Zoom interview, there are some things to keep in mind before your interview.
First, you want to make sure your space and technology are interview ready. Technology can be finicky, so test and troubleshoot before your interview. Each platform works a little differently, so familiarize yourself with the software you’ll be using for your interview – and, for Pete’s sake, choose a professional screen name that will be easy for the interviewer to recognize. Make sure that your microphone and speakers are working and that your internet connection supports high-quality live video. And, finally, schedule a test call with a friend or family member (bonus if they can conduct a mock interview in the process).
Second, choose your location. Find a quiet room with minimal background noise and no distractions, adequate lighting (preferably natural) and no distractions behind you. Speaking of distractions, make sure your housemates know not to disturb you and shut any pets out of the room. Also, to keep yourself from looking like a creepy shadow silhouette, the light should be in front of you, so don’t sit in front of a window or lamp.
Finally, conduct your virtual interview as if you are talking to the interviewer in their office. The same interview techniques and etiquette apply to video interviews.
To mentally prepare for your job interview, remember these interview tips:
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Answer interview questions in the STAR approach.
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Time yourself!
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Every action reflects on you: First impressions matter.
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Practice, practice, practice!
We’re Here to Help!
If you want to learn more about navigating this new virtual world of job-hunting during your job search and want to prepare for a good interview, the Goodwill Workforce Connection Centers are an excellent resource for resume writing and interview coaching.
