Zoom Job Interview Mistakes you should take note of: If you’re ever interviewed virtually, there are some principles you should follow if you want to make the best impression.
Due to the global pandemic, companies have been shifting from in-person to remote interviews, so it’s important to be equipped with the needed tools for remote interviews.
In a recent survey of talent leaders and recruiters conducted by the tech firm called Talview, 80% of respondents stated that their hiring process is fully remote, with 39% saying they have increased their use of video conferencing software, like Zoom, for their interview processes.
That’s good news is, if you’re looking for a job, because you can interview for jobs from the comfort of your home. However, remote interviews comes with its own set of challenges, especially if you’re not conversant with meeting remotely. It’s all too easy to get overwhelmed by the technology and forget to mind the details that make the difference between a so-so interview and one that clinches a job offer.
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7 Zoom Job Interview Mistakes you should take note of
To increase your possibility of making a great impression and landing the job, there are certain errors you should avoid before and during Zoom interviews.
Coming to the Interview Late
In relation to job interviews, you’re either early or late. This is also very true for Zoom interviews. You’re expected to jump on the call a few minutes before time, so you won’t have to worry about last-minute technical difficulties derailing your effort. There’s nothing more terrible than starting a job interview looking stressed out and distracted.
Not Practicing With the Technology Beforehand
Throwing light on possible technical difficulties that may arise during zoom interviews, most possible technical difficulties can be avoided by making sure you’re comfortable with the software or application ahead of time. Be sure to download zoom or the specified software/application instructed by the recruiter and get in at least a few practice interviews before the main interview. You’ll feel more at ease and in control during the conversation and much more resilient if other technical issues arise.
Failing to Gather Your Materials
Immediately you’re seated in front of your computer, it’s vital that everything needed by you to carry out a successful interview should be handy. Ensure you have all your interview materials, like your resume, portfolio, references, etc., and that you’re comfortable and ready to confidently speak.
It’s paramount to remember not to eat or drink during the length of the interview, you should only have a glass of water nearby in case of emergency.
Choosing the Wrong Outfit
If you’re already used to being at home in sweats or pajamas for an extended period due to the global pandemic, it might not be so easy to remember what professionals’ clothes even look like. As a quick refresher, business outfits or business casual outfits are always the best bet for job interviews. A suit, sport coat, button-down, or nice sweater are safe bets. Try to tailor your outfit to fit the company’s culture as you understand it, even if employees keep it super-casual, it’s always safer to dress up a bit.
Don’t forget that whatever outfit you choose should show well on camera as well as look professional. Avoid stripes, extremely bright colors, or wearing the same color as your background.
Interviewing in a Messy Space
Zoom offers you the option of choosing a default background image or upload your own stock photo, so it’s very possible to take an interview amid a pile of dirty laundry and unfiled papers while appearing as if Alejandra Costello has just optimized your entire life.
Although you decided to use the digital background, it’s still a great idea to tidy up your environment before your job interview. Why? Multiple research has shown that your work environment affects your mental health and decision-making ability. Also, a serene workspace fosters peace of mind and reduces nerves.
Distracting the Interviewer With These Habits
This is perhaps the worst Zoom interview blunder you can make, indicating through your behavior and mannerisms that you’re uninterested in whatever the interviewer is saying.
Little gestures can make a huge impact. Restlessly twisting your hair or your clothes, checking your phone (yes, even off-screen), or even staring at yourself instead of connecting with the interviewer can be seem as you’re disconnected or distracted. Unfortunately, this is easier to do than you might think. So you’ve to be conscious of your actions during the course of the interview.
Not Carrying on a Real Conversation
Even when done in person, job interviews can sometimes feel like interrogations. The interviewer asks questions and you’re expected to answer them. You ask some questions and the interviewer is expected to answers them. Rinse, repeat. Video technology can aggravate this problem by shrinking your visual field down to two screens and raising up the tension with the threat of technical difficulties.
To reduce the feeling of it been an interrogation, focus on listening instead of just waiting for your chance to speak. This would be seen as you demonstrating a valuable soft skill as well as a good communicator while learning more about the job and company. Thats apart from the fact that you’d be leaving a positive impression on the recruiter, which is essential to helping you land the job.
How to Make the Best Impression
There’s an old saying that says “Practice makes perfect” this may not always be the case for everything in life, but on remote interviews, it’s the best advice anyone can ever give you. If you take the time to prepare and your technology is working properly, the interview will be seamless.
Get set before time: Don’t procrastinate until the last minute to set up your interview space and tech, clear away the mess, test your tech and get your interview clothes ready.
Pay attention: Remote interviews can be difficult for newbies, so remember to listen attentively to the questions, give precise answers and focus on your interviewer. Good luck on your interview.
