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Key Tips for Virtual Interviews
Key Tips for Virtual Interviews
Remote working has become the new norm. With that, there is every possibility that you will face a job interview virtually.
Although this may not be the traditional setting for an interview, there are a few advantages to facing one this way. For example, saving on travel expenses and the time it takes that comes with travelling. Below are some key tips on how to present yourself and be video interview ready.
Test your equipment
Have a stable internet connection; a reliable device; and ensure you are connected to a power supply so your device stays on throughout the interview. Your computer shutting down mid-conversation is not a good look, especially if the job you are interviewing for is a remote one.
Use a desktop or laptop instead of a mobile phone or tablet. Desktops and laptops are steadier, minimising the risk of a shaky screen, which might interrupt the flow of your interview and frustrate the interviewer.
Presentation—backgrounds, professional appearance and lighting
Present yourself professionally. First impressions count, so dress to impress and show the interviewer that this job means a lot to you.
In terms of lighting and background, set yourself up in front of a well-lit plain white or light-coloured background to avoid distraction. You want the focus on you and the interviewer to see you.
Set up away from any disturbance
Ensure that the environment you choose to set up for your interview is in a quiet setting, free of noise or anything that might disrupt the flow of the conversation.
Practise makes perfect
Practising for an interview is a given. Be sure to research the company, get to know its morals and culture, and figure out how you could be of value to them. Practise answering a few sample questions to get into the flow of things.
Setting up your camera
Before being interviewed, position the camera so that your head and shoulders are visible. Make sure that you are at eye level with the camera, and when answering questions, try to look directly into the camera and address your audience confidently.
Stay composed
In virtual interviews, pause for a few seconds after a question to account for delays and gather your thoughts. There may be instances where you choose to answer a question directly after it has been asked and unintentionally end up cutting off your interviewer, accidentally speaking over them and coming across as rude in the process.
Linkedin Advice
Linkedin Advice
LinkedIn is your online resume.
LinkedIn can be used as an online version of your CV. It provides numerous other benefits, such as connecting you to industry peers, increased exposure to hiring managers and recruiters, a great job board, and other advantages.
Make sure your LinkedIn profile is frequently updated. Let’s look at a few methods for transforming your LinkedIn profile into an effective CV.
Think of LinkedIn as your new CV
LinkedIn reports that 97% of recruiters and hiring managers utilise LinkedIn to recruit employees. This makes it all the more important for you to make your profile stand out. The least you can do is consistently update your profile with the various accomplishments which you have achieved and your career timeline.
Ensure you have a recent, professional-looking picture/headshot on your profile. You do not want to surprise the hiring team in an interview!
Make a distinction between your professional and personal social profiles
One of the instances where hiring companies reject candidates is due to their online activity. Feel free to post and do as you please on your social accounts. However, it is best to adjust your settings and make those accounts private.
Use your LinkedIn account to publicly display your professional accomplishments, recent career history, and skills.
Ensure that your contact details are on your profile
Do not miss out on opportunities because you have not provided your contact details.
Typos and grammatical errors
Ensure that your profile is grammatically correct and free of spelling errors. Write clearly and concisely to present a positive image of yourself. It’s recommended to proofread your CV, and your LinkedIn profile should be no different.
Utilise LinkedIn’s functions
LinkedIn has a host of functions that you can use to engage with peers, recruiters and hiring companies. You can interact with companies directly by commenting and reacting to their content, declaring your interest in them in the process.
You can showcase your work and use LinkedIn as a portfolio to attract hiring companies, displaying what you have to offer. This can be in various mediums; video, graphics, blogs etc.
How to Write a Follow-Up E-Mail After an Interview
How to Write a Follow-Up E-Mail After an Interview
For any candidate post-interview, it is normal to have feelings of apprehension or to be eager and want an update on how the interview went. Perhaps you were told that you would hear back from the interviewer by a particular date but haven’t. In this case, how do you write a follow-up email without coming across as annoying or informal? Let’s take a look below…
When is a good time to send a follow-up email?
Allow for a few days, perhaps 3-5 days after your interview. Give the hiring team time to review their options- you don’t want to come across as overly pushy.
Recommended tone
Be formal, direct and to the point. Maintain your professionalism even through an email. Express your purpose of sending the email, i.e., that you are looking for an update following the interview.
Subject
Do not overthink this. Make it as direct as possible. If you have received an email from the interviewer in the past, it is best to reply directly. If not, include your name, date of interview and time mentioned as the subject.
Referring to the interviewer
If you previously referred to the interviewer on a first-name basis, feel free to go ahead with that. If you are unsure, refer to them by their title followed by their last names.
Body of your email
Do not overcomplicate this section. Be direct, explain the purpose of your email and be sure to mention the job role/title and the date of your interview. Express again how keen you are about this role and that you are eager to hear the next steps. Do not forget to mention how any response is greatly appreciated.
Sign-off
Keep it simple. Sign off with- “Hope to hear from you soon” and “Thank you” with your full name.
Typos, grammatical errors, spell-checks
Ensure that your email is free of spelling and grammar mistakes before sending it through.
Example:
Subject: John Parker – Interview on 03rd June, Tuesday at 4 pm
Good afternoon/Hi James,
I hope all is well. I wanted to see if there is perhaps a status update on the <<job role>> position I interviewed for on the <<date>> I am of course still very much interested and keen on the position and am looking forward to hearing from you.
Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you again for your time.
Regards,
<<Your name>>
How to Answer- “What is Your Ideal Work Environment?”
How to Answer- “What is Your Ideal Work Environment?”
This classic question is often asked in interviews and is also one that you should consider asking yourself. In an interview setting, the question could also be reworded to ‘what environment do you work best in?’
So, let’s take a look at a few tips on how to address this question:
- Do not be vague or stick to one definitive answer, be flexible
Example: “I am relatively flexible; I do not have just one particular environment that works best for me. I have my fair share of experience working in both remote roles and roles that involve me having to be in the office. I find that provided communication is clear, there should be an added boost in productivity and quality of work. “
Explanation: This shows that you are flexible and able to work in any sort of environment. It also shows what you value the most in your workplace: communication.
- Express the Importance of collaboration and teamworking skills
Example: “To me, an environment that consists of a collaborative and strong work ethic certainly pertains to my interests. I take my responsibility very seriously to ensure that I do my best and cater to the company’s growth and success whilst also making sure I do not let any of my teammates down.”
Explanation: This answer comes in handy for roles that involve a lot of group work and working with other colleagues in teams. It shows your sense of camaraderie and also demonstrates a level of responsibility.
- Do your research into the company
Example: “In my opinion, an ideal work environment instils a positive workplace culture. Upon my research, I noticed how the company’s vision and mission go hand in hand and align with my interests and what is important to me regarding my professional development. I also excel in environments where I get to expand my skills and learn more through on-field experiences.”
Explanation: This answer shows how you have done your homework. It shows how you are eager to learn and how driven and determined you are. It also reflects on your personality and how you work well with others.
- Do not focus purely on the perks that the organisation can offer you, also focus on what you can offer them
Example: “An ideal work environment to me, is one where I feel purposeful. It is where I feel like my skills and abilities are utilised to the max, to help the company achieve their visions, missions and goals and also where I can assist my colleagues as well as learn from them. I think given the responsibilities at hand, this company is the perfect place for me to contribute to the welfare of the organisation and its successes whilst sharpening my skills.”
How to Manage Multiple Job Offers
How to Manage Multiple Job Offers
Receiving multiple job offers can be both exciting and overwhelming. You may face a situation that involves you making a difficult decision. How can you be sure you are making the right one? What do you do? How do you effectively manage multiple offers?
Document your job offers
Ensure that your job offers are not just verbal; get them in writing. If you receive the job opportunity verbally, ask them when you can expect a written contract and use that time to assess your options.
Communication
If you receive two or more offers, declare your interest without accepting any roles immediately. If you are interested in more than one, take your time and list the pros and cons to see which is best for you. Regardless of your decision, thank the hiring company and let them know that you are excited about the opportunity but require some time to review all the details and look into the specifics more closely before coming to a final decision.
While deciding between multiple offers, remain professional and maintain communication by responding to whatever emails you receive.
Get all the information you need
Choosing your next job is a big deal that involves your livelihood and your future. Make sure you gather all of the information from the hiring companies when forming your decision. Relevant information may include salary, job description, benefits, and company culture.
Be honest
Be honest with the hiring companies when asked whether or not you are interviewing for other jobs. The last thing you want to do is say yes to an offer, have the company take down the job listing and let the other candidates know that the role has now been occupied, only to retract your statement because another opportunity came along. This will cost the company valuable time and money and hinder the other candidates looking into the role. Your reputation can be negatively affected, especially if you encounter the company later in your career.
Think long-term
When making this important decision, think about your career goals. Will this help you develop your skills in the long run? Will this provide the experience you need to further advance in your career?
Have you got these Hybrid Working Essentials?
Have you got these Hybrid Working Essentials?
Since the pandemic and with technology advancing, the opportunities provided remotely within the corporate sector and other industries are increasing. Cloud computing and the internet encourage a collaborative workforce from any location. Employees can easily access applications, work emails, and so on. Remote work promotes a more flexible setup that can accommodate staff from all backgrounds and locations.
Hybrid working is another take on remote work, a more flexible approach that incorporates working in an office and working from home. The flexibility of hybrid work varies and it supports a variety of different working arrangements. It allows employees to choose how and where they work and gives them the freedom to design their work week in a way that works for them as well as company policies whilst still offering the chance to work in a physical office for part of the week.
Organisations that use a hybrid work model can provide their employees with a better work-life balance. This typically leads to an increase in productivity and employee engagement at work, allowing businesses to operate more efficiently.
Having said that, you should ensure that you can work productively without the need for supervision. In addition to this, you should make sure you have a designated workspace that is clear and away from distractions.
Making it work…
- Internet connection- The key component of working from home is a stable internet connection.
- Posture- Working from home and slouching in front of a screen for hours can take a toll on your body. A good hiring company will supply ergonomic equipment to assist with your posture.
- Installation of appropriate software programmes- Hardware devices such as laptops and desktop computers are vital, but it is also important that the necessary software is installed on your computer so that you can access company systems remotely.
- Be contactable- Have your phone on hand in case of an emergency where you may be required to speak to a colleague.
- A quiet workspace- It is easy to get distracted when working in the comfort of your own home. Do not position yourself in front of the TV or anything that may distract you.
- Video conferencing- When participating in a video call, ensure you have a clear workspace and are positioned in front of a clear background with a working microphone and camera.
The benefits of working from home:
- Increased flexibility.
- No transportation or travel expenses—save time and money.
- Better work/life balance.
- A hiring company will also benefit from reduced overhead costs such as rent, utilities, office supplies and insurance.
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NK
How to get Your CV Noticed in the AI Age
How to get Your CV Noticed in the AI Age
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used in various stages of the hiring process, including:
- Resume screening: AI algorithms can quickly scan resumes and identify key skills and qualifications, allowing recruiters to identify the most qualified candidates more quickly.
- Interview scheduling: Chatbots powered by artificial intelligence can interact with candidates and schedule interviews based on their availability.
- Interviews: AI-powered virtual interview assistants can conduct preliminary interviews and provide the interviewer with real-time feedback.
- Assessing candidates: During virtual interviews, AI-based assessment tools can evaluate candidates based on their behaviour, tone, and facial expressions.
- Predictive hiring: Using data from previous hires, AI can help predict which candidates are most likely to succeed in a given role.
- Background check: AI-powered tools can quickly scan social media and other online platforms to determine a candidate’s background.
- Checking references: AI-based tools can also automatically contact references and verify the information provided by a candidate.
With all that being said, here are a few tips on how to prepare a CV for AI screening:
- Use job-related keywords: AI algorithms use keywords to match resumes with job requirements. Make sure to include relevant keywords from the job description in your CV.
- Use a simple format: Because AI algorithms are designed to read text, it’s critical to use a clear, simple format that they can understand. Use simple formatting and graphics as much as possible.
- Use bullet points: Because AI algorithms can easily read bullet points and lists, use them to highlight your qualifications and skills.
- Use specific data: AI algorithms are best suited to understanding and evaluating specific, quantifiable data. Include specific examples of your abilities and accomplishments, as well as any data or statistics demonstrating their impact.
- Provide relevant information: Make sure your CV contains all of the information that the employer is looking for, such as contact information, education and work experience, and any relevant certifications or training.
- Avoid irrelevant information: Such as your hobbies or interests, as this can detract from the key information that the employer is looking for.
- Use a standard format: When submitting your CV, try to use a standard format such as .pdf, .doc, or .txt, as this will make it easier for the AI to read and process.
- Check for spelling and grammar errors before submitting your CV, as errors can make it difficult for the AI to understand your CV.
It’s important to remember that AI works best when combined with human decision-making rather than replacing it entirely. So, if you do use AI to create your CV, still check over it, refine it, and give it personality.
Best and Worst Times in the Year to Look For a Job
Best and Worst Times in the Year to Look For a Job
Looking for a new job? The timing of your job search can make a big difference in your chances of success. Keep reading to discover the best and worst times to look for a job and maximise your chances of finding your dream career!
Best times to look for a job
Ideally, January and February are considered the best months to look for work in most industries. As people come out of winter break, companies become more active about hiring to fill positions and ensure their goals are achieved, and business grows. Interviews and recruitment of new candidates begin in the second week of January, as momentum picks up. These months are also favourable for job seekers because companies receive their new hiring budgets in January and may have a backlog of jobs to fill. Additionally, many people wait to receive their bonuses in December before changing jobs, so organisations start their hiring activity in January. Job listings posted in January are more likely to attract a large number of candidates by February, leading to the scheduling of interviews and hiring of new employees.
The worst times to look for a job
The summer months, June to August, are generally the toughest times to look for work because many managers take leave or vacations, making it difficult to coordinate and assemble a team for interviews and hiring decisions. Additionally, many hiring decisions have already been made, so the demand for new employees during the summer is low. However, it is still possible to find a job during these months, though it may be more challenging and responses may be delayed.
September and October often mirror the activity seen in January and February, with a fairly good period for hiring. This is because people return from holidays and are ready to start work again, and children go back to school.
November and December are slower times for hiring due to the holiday season. Hiring activities are often pushed back as managers prepare for the holidays, and new hiring budgets become available in the new year. However, it is still worth applying for jobs at the end of December, as your application will be at the top of the pile when employers return in the new year, giving you a competitive advantage.
While there are always job opportunities available, certain times of the year tend to be more favourable for job seekers. January and February, September and October, and the end of December are generally good times to look for work, while the summer months and November and December tend to be slower for hiring. By aligning your job search with these trends, you can increase your chances of finding the perfect job and kickstart your career. Happy job hunting!
Ways to Stand Out in a Competitive Job Market in 2023
Ways to Stand Out in a Competitive Job Market in 2023
To succeed in today’s job market, you must have a strong personal brand, a professional network, and updated knowledge of your field. In addition, it’s important to continuously learn and acquire new skills. When applying for a job, show enthusiasm and tailor your materials to the specific position and company. Emphasise your relevant skills and achievements to demonstrate your worth as a candidate.
Let’s have a look at some ways we can expand upon the above and get you hired.
Create a strong personal brand:
In the competitive job market of today, it’s critical to understand your unique value proposition and be able to articulate it. By doing this, you can distinguish yourself from other applicants and leave a lasting impression on prospective employers.
Create a strong professional network:
Networking is essential for securing employment and growing your career. Build contacts with professionals in your field, including possible mentors, colleagues, and hiring managers.
Keep abreast of market trends and advancements:
To remain competitive, it’s critical to keep abreast of market trends and advancements in your sector. This can assist you in bringing new, pertinent ideas to the table and proving your worth as a candidate.
Acquire new skills and knowledge:
In a constantly evolving job market, it is important to constantly learn and develop. Look for opportunities to learn new skills and stay abreast of industry best practices.
Show Enthusiasm and Passion:
Hiring managers are often looking for candidates who are passionate about their work and excited about the prospect of joining their team. Show enthusiasm for the job and the company during the application and interviews.
Tailor your application materials:
Tailor your CV, cover letter and other application materials to the job and company you are applying for. This can help you stand out, showing you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the role.
Show your worth:
In a competitive job market, it’s important to show your worth and achievements. Emphasise your relevant skills, experience and achievements in your application materials and interviews to demonstrate why you are the best candidate for the position.
By focusing on these key areas, you can set yourself apart from other candidates and increase your chances of securing employment and advancing your career.
Cover Letters and Their Purpose
A cover letter should consist of a page that is addressed to the interviewer and encloses your interest in the role you are applying for. Along with your contact information, it should include details that could be found on your CV.
The purpose of a cover letter is to market yourself by expressing your skills, qualifications, and experience (in relation to the job description). This is to set you apart from other candidates, proving you are the best fit for the role.
Writing a Cover Letter
Express your current employment status and why you are looking to work elsewhere
Every candidate has different reasons for choosing to apply for new roles. If you are currently employed, it is best to express the reason behind your decision to look elsewhere. Reasons could include wanting more experience, a change in work environment, or a personal interest.
Addressing your cover letter
Ensure that your letter is addressed to the appropriate hiring manager. If you find yourself in a situation where you do not know the name of your hiring manager, it is best to simply begin your letter with ‘To whom it may concern’.
Why should they choose you?
Use your cover letter as an opportunity to express why you are the best candidate for this role. Highlight your strengths, be it through your accomplishments, experience, skills, qualifications, or personality traits.
This is also a good chance to showcase the research you have done into studying the company, its culture, how it aligns with your interests and skills, and what you can bring to the table to enhance the company’s image and performance.
Grammar and spelling mistakes
Make sure that your letter is brief and free of grammatical errors and spelling mistakes. Think of a cover letter as a direct reflection of you as an employee and your attention to detail.
Closing Statements
Express your willingness to join the team and be a great addition to the company. Let them know that you are available to be contacted at any point and invite them to get back in touch with you.
A sample cover letter
Dear <<Name of Hiring Manager>> / To whom this may concern,
I am writing to you with regard to the advertisement for the role of Senior Project Manager on https://www.spinwellglobal.com/vacancies/vacancy-search-results.aspx Attached below is a copy of my CV.
Listed below are my qualifications and experiences that match the job description:
- Master’s Degree level education or equivalent in a relevant subject or demonstrable significant relevant experience.
- PRINCE2 Practitioner or equivalent.
- Proven experience in leading complex projects.
- Experienced in a staff management role.
- Experience in programme management.
- Experience in implementing change.
- Experience in managing project budgets and managing project change.
In my current/most recent role, my responsibilities included:
- Supporting the PMs to ensure that all projects deliver the required outcomes at the required quality within the constraints of time and cost.
- Responsible for the successful delivery of complex digital projects and transformation enablers.
- Leading the development, management, and implementation of a wide portfolio of schemes.
- Analysis of complex datasets; communications planning; managing changing demands; and benefits tracking.
- I believe I have the relevant experience and skills required for the Senior Project Manager role that goes hand in hand with the requirements that this particular role entails. I am confident that I will be a valuable asset and a great addition to <<insert company name>> and the values it holds.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at your convenience. My details are available on my CV and I look forward to hearing from you .
Kind Regards,
<<Name>>