Articles From the Team
Useful tips for candidates in the age of the virtual interview
Interviews can be daunting, notwithstanding the fact that in today’s world, you’ll be sitting at your computer and attending virtually.
If you are yet to attend a virtual interview, the whole idea of it may just seem a little odd. However, I believe it should be confidence inspiring to be safe in the knowledge that you don’t have to travel anywhere through the hustle and bustle, or navigate through an unfamiliar office to find the meeting room. You can prepare yourself in the comfort of your home and not even leave it!
So in this new age of virtual interviews, I thought it might be useful to share some useful insights into this process, which hopefully you’ll find useful...
Preparation
Spend a good amount of time studying the job specification. Try to ensure that you gain a solid understanding of the role you’re interviewing for and what exactly it is they’re looking for in a candidate. If you know anyone in a similar role, it’s always good to try and speak with them to get an idea of what the role involves.
Research
Ensure you research the firm/role ahead of an interview. It’s highly likely you will be asked “what do you know about the firm and why are you interested in joining us?” so ensuring you research ahead can really allow you prepare for questions like this and really make you think about why you’re applying. Visit their website online, view the team you are interviewing for and the work they handle. Most firm’s websites will have full pages dedicated to the work which any given practice group carries out. It’s also good research to view the interviewers’ profiles on LinkedIn and on the firm’s website if possible. This will give you an insight into their career, experience and if nothing else, put a face to a name! It’s also worth having a look at the firm’s latest news and articles so you have an idea of any recent changes to the firm/team news and updates.
Punctuality
It’s crucially important to arrive on time for an interview. Make sure you’ve tested your equipment prior to connecting to the virtual interview, so that technology mishaps don’t hinder your chances! Your Recruitment Consultant will be more than happy to arrange a trial run beforehand to make sure everything runs smoothly on the day. If you find yourself in exceptional circumstances and you’re unable to attend an interview, don’t panic and inform your Consultant. These things happen and the interview can be re-arranged.
The Format
A first stage interview will normal be a relatively informal discussion around you, your CV and your ambitions. The interviewers will want to gauge your relevant experience and interest in the role. Usually the second stage interview will be more focused on your technical ability and skillset. Throughout the interview process, they will be trying to confirm you will be a good fit for the team and capable of managing the work in the team and servicing their clients. It’s a great idea to be armed with relevant examples of work which you’ve completed recently, as this is always attractive to interviewers.
Ask Questions
There will be opportunity throughout or at the end of an interview to ask any questions you may have for interviewers. Ensure you have prepared questions that you want to know ahead of the meeting. It’s important to ask relevant questions based on the firm or the role that haven’t already been covered throughout the meeting. This will reflect well on you and shows you have listened and have a genuine interest in the firm/role on offer. Never ask about salary at interview. Remember, it’s equally important for you to obtain all the information you need to make an informed decision, as it is for them to cover the interview criteria!