As advances in technology shape the hiring and recruiting process, applicants have had to adapt to new ways. One of the most significant changes applicants have had to adjust to in the last several years is that first-round interviews are now almost entirely remote, conducted via telephone, video conferencing, and recorded video submissions. While this can prove beneficial for candidates by allowing them to conduct their interview in a comfortable, familiar environment, it can also provide challenges if they face unfamiliar technology.
For many education professionals in Arizona who face a virtual interview for the first time, the unfamiliar nature of such an interview may cause them more anxiety than the interview itself. Fortunately, by taking the proper steps to prepare, you can enter your virtual interview with the confidence to land your dream job. If you are seeking new career opportunities in education, keep reading for a look at tips to help you nail your next virtual interview.
Dress Like it’s an In-Person Interview
Just because you are doing your interview from home does not mean you don’t need to dress to impress. When deciding what to wear for your virtual interview, you should dress the same as if this was an in-person interview. While it may be tempting to only look nice up top as no one will be able to see your sweatpants and slippers, it is generally a good idea to put in the extra effort to dress as if the interviewer can see your entire outfit.
The fact is that putting in the effort to dress up can help boost your confidence, setting you up for success. Furthermore, you never know what may happen during an interview, and if you have to jump up from your seat suddenly, you don’t want the interviewer to see that you are not wearing pants. Taking the time to dress fully for a remote interview will ensure that you are prepared for the unexpected and are in the right mindset to land the job.
Test Your Technology Ahead of Time
To ensure that you do not encounter any problems logging in for a video interview, it is good to test out your technology and make sure that everything is working properly at least a day before your interview. To start, test out the conferencing program you will be using for the interview to ensure that your computer is compatible with the platform and that there are no problems with your audio or video quality, such as lag or feedback. If the platform that you are being asked to use for the interview is not one you are familiar with, you should download it a few days in advance so that you can get practice at navigating it.
If you do not know what conferencing platform you will be using, you should at least test your webcam and microphone the day before your interview to make sure that everything is working properly. You may even want to consider testing the platform with a friend to make sure everything is working properly and that you know what to expect on the day of the interview. The last thing you want to happen is to be late for your virtual interview because you encountered problems with your hardware.
Make Sure to Smile and Look at The Camera
Whether an interview is virtual or in-person, it is important that you maintain eye contact with the interviewer, as potential employers are constantly assessing body language and nonverbal queues during an interview. However, it is important to remember that if you want to make eye contact over a webcam, you need to look at the camera rather than at the other person on your screen. If this is something that you are not used to, you may want to practice it leading up to the interview as it can feel a bit unnatural. However, looking directly at the camera will create the effect of looking the other person in the eyes, helping to make you look attentive.
Of course, if your interview takes place over the phone, the interviewer will not be able to read your body language and will only have your words and tone of voice to go on. However, studies have shown that people can hear a smile in your voice, so making sure to smile is one way to convey body language during a phone interview.
Get Comfortable on Video
Ultimately, while some jobs still require phone interviews, most remote interviews involve video conferencing. Being asked to participate in a video interview can cause discomfort for people who do not have a lot of experience in front of a camera. Fortunately, this is where education professionals have an advantage, as many of these individuals spent the first few months of the pandemic working (and teaching) remotely, giving them plenty of experience on camera. However, suppose you still do not feel comfortable on camera. In that case, you may want to consider spending some time on a video conference with friends leading up to your interview, as this could help you prepare to be on camera. Getting acclimated to being on camera will ensure you look confident when your interview arrives.
For education professionals looking to change jobs in Arizona, you must prepare for the likelihood of being asked to conduct at least one virtual interview during the hiring process. Preparing for such now will ensure that you are not caught off-guard when you are offered an interview for your dream role.
If you are an education professional seeking new opportunities (and better money) in Phoenix, Tempe, Avondale, Tucson, Scottsdale, or Paradise Valley, you may find yourself wondering where you should start your job hunt. If this is the case, consider looking for new opportunities with AB Staffing. Since AB Staffing contractors receive excellent benefits and top pay, we can help connect you with a job that you will love and make you feel valued and fairly compensated.
Contact us to find out about our high-paying education jobs throughout Arizona, or visit our website to learn more about our current education and travel nurse job postings.
