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04-May-21
With precautionary measures such as social distancing, the traditional interview process has been reimagined so we have put together our top 10 tips on how to succeed in your job search.
It’s very likely for instance that your next interview will be online, so whether you have years of experience under your belt (or you are brand new to the market), with some best practice and preparation you can ensure you will shine as you would have face-to-face!
- Firstly, update your CV
Sounds obvious right? But you would be surprised how many do not review their CV to make sure it’s up-to-date. If you have finished a role for whatever reason then put this on your CV - sometimes it can work to your advantage as it could demonstrate you are available to start a new job immediately. Also, check your spelling and grammar carefully. It is always worthwhile having a family member, friend or recruitment consultant go over it to make sure it all makes sense and reads well.
- Make your CV online accessible
It’s never been more important to ensure your CV is accessible on all popular CV databases, including but not limited to: Reed.co.uk, CV-library, Monster and Indeed. After all, how are people going to find you if you are not marketing yourself! Also, ensure your profile is up-to-date on LinkedIn and if you do not have a profile, then set one up - it is a very popular network tool for recruitment!
- Ensure you register with some reputable recruitment agencies
These agencies have jobs on for a reason...they tend to be good agents! They will market your skills for you and be the first to know about great opportunities that may not reach job sites online. Google locally and find some with good reviews, then move onto their website to see what they are advertising. Vacancies are moving quickly at the moment so don’t despair if they don’t have your perfect role. If they are marketing similar opportunities, then it is very likely they work with businesses who will be seeking your type of skill-set soon!
- Treat your job search like your full-time job
There is a large number of people searching for opportunities it is likely you will get more knockbacks then successes, therefore you must be prepared mentally to increase your applications to increase your chances. Lean on friends, family, old colleague...as many people as possible to give you support and motivation - there is a lot of kindness out there!
- Familiarise yourself with popular video conferencing applications
The most popular are Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype and WhatsApp. Each company tend to use one specifically so if you have an interview booked to attend, make sure to ask what type of meeting they will be asking you to join and download it so you can familiarise yourself on how it works.
- Practice a Video interview with a friend or someone your trust
For most, conducting an interview online will feel unusual at first but after a bit of practice it will become more familiar. Trial runs will allow you to become comfortable on things like turning your camera on and making sure your microphone is working. Most applications start you on mute and with your video disabled, so spend some time on turning your camera and mute button on and off. Little things are easy to do on a video call, like interrupting each other (which is very easy to do if there is a slight delay) so run through some practice questions to get used to answering and giving an appropriate pause for their reply.
- Location, location, location!
Try to ensure you have a place where you can hold a video call without being interrupted, which has a good internet signal and an appropriate background. Obviously you do not want to conduct your interview with your laundry in the background, but also consider things like light i.e. sitting in front of a very sunny window will silhouette you. Natural light is always better so try to be well lit from the front.
- Remember to ask for help if needed
We are all getting used to these new ways of working and we all appreciate that. If you are unsure about how to use any of the technology, or you need any assistance then let the interviewer know beforehand so that they can help. Remember, they want to interview you for a reason and if they are good at their job they will do everything within their capabilities to help you.
- Treat your interview exactly as you would a face to face!
This means do your preparation; make sure your laptop is fully charged or plugged in, dress smart, be ready to take the call 5 minutes early, make eye contact and listen to the questions being asked. It is key to remember that first impressions and your passion and knowledge for the role will shine through so give the interview as much attention and preparation as you would have walking into the interview room.
- End with a thank you!
Lastly, make sure to end with a thank you for their time and the opportunity to introduce yourself. You will be amazed how far a little thank you can take you!
Well, that’s about it! Not an exhaustive list, but one we hope helps in your career search.
If you are seeking an agency to represent yourself then please feel free giving us a call as with over 40 years recruitment experience in the area, we are here to help!