Zoom Interview Preparation
With the pandemic making more work remote, current job applicants are finding that their usual face-to-face meetings are now being replaced with Zoom interviews. If you don’t already know, Zoom is a video conferencing service that allows individuals around the world to communicate via audio and visuals. In today’s blog, we’ll discuss how to set up your computer for using Zoom, potential questions you might get asked, and other tips that will help you ace the interview!
Using Zoom
Setting Up
Zoom is very straightforward to set up. All you have to do is download the app and then you’re good to go! You then either click the link that the job interviewer provides you, or manually input the meeting code and password. Remember, it’s always important to check that your Zoom is up to date so your meeting isn’t delayed because you have to install the newest version.
Dressing for Success
The great thing about a Zoom interview is that you are only seen from the shoulders up. That means you just have to concern yourself with wearing a professional top half, and your bottom half can stick to its beloved sweatpants. Make sure to iron your shirt or bring your look together with a smart blazer!
It’s also important to think about what background you’re going to use, and that you are well lit. Remember you are presenting yourself as a potential employee so you literally want to put yourself in the best light. It’s advisable to have a neutral plain background. If you’re feeling adventurous you could even try one of zoom’s virtual backdrops!
Addressing Potential Tech Issues
Remember that the job you’re interviewing for will probably be remote. Therefore, showing the interviewer that you could have potential tech issues in the future will not work in your favour. Instead, be sure to check that you have a stable internet connection and that you can be in a space that has little background noise. If you can, wear headphones that have a built in microphone so you can be heard clearly. Not everyone has access to a PC, if you need to use your phone be sure to prop it up so it’s steady and at a flattering angle.
Interview Questions
Here are some potential questions you could be asked and the best way to respond to them:
- Why do you want to work here? Be sure to do your research on the company before the interview. Read their mission statement and use some of their buzz words or selling points when answering this question.
- Tell me about yourself. This can feel like a very daunting question but is actually the perfect opportunity to align your personality and personal goals with the ethos of the company.
- What are your strengths and weakness? Again, you want your strengths to align with the goals of the company. In terms of weaknesses, it’s good to be honest but also to show how you are doing the work to overcome these faults.
Other Tips
- Give yourself enough time to get ready. Start preparing yourself at least 30 minutes before the interview. Take the time to set up your computer and be sure to put it in “do not disturb” mode so there are no unwanted distractions.
- Remember to enunciate! There will always be delays when being virtual. It’s okay to ask the interviewer to repeat themselves if you couldn’t hear what they said!
- Be friendly and be polite. Always be sure to say hello and ask how their day is going. Don’t forget to thank the interviewer for their time!
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