During the Covid-19 pandemic, businesses across the world have had to adapt to a new way of working. With the lack of face-to-face communication, almost every worker will have had some experience of a video call. Naturally, businesses have had to adapt their hiring policy to a remote-based system, so how do candidates adapt in their application and interview process from their own home? Here are five top tips to ensure you ace that remote interview and set sail towards a successful career in shipbuilding.
TIP 1 – Set up a base
Working from home comes with all sorts of challenges. This could be down to space and equipment, but even if you lack a plush new desk with a padded swivel chair, you can still ensure your working area is tidy and professional. By keeping your ‘home-desk’ clean and your area presentable you put yourself in the right frame of mind for an interview, whilst maintaining a tidy and minimalist background will send all the right signals to your interviewer.
TIP 2 – Prepare!
Whilst the interview process may be very different in some ways, many of the same preparations will be required. Every interviewer will be searching for a candidate who has shown enthusiasm and a desire for the role by doing their due diligence, so make sure you prepare for any questions or tasks in the same way you would for a face to face interview.
TIP 3 – Arrive in time
It goes without saying that being late to a job interview (unless an extraordinary reason) will often scupper your chances of securing a role, the same can be said for remote job interviews. Make sure you understand how to attend the virtual interview and have any required software downloaded. Just like you may do during a traditional face to face meeting, arrive with plenty of time ahead to allow for any technical issues!
TIP 4 – ‘Do not disturb’
Many of those who have experienced working from home during the pandemic will know just how distracting our own houses can be. Whether it is noisy children or your latest delivery, try to ensure that you keep the volume down and distraction free for your interview. Having a quiet space to conduct your interview in will allow you to remain clear headed for any possible questions you should face.
Putting a note on your door to warn any potential knockers to be keep the noise to a minimum is a great idea, whilst children aren’t the easiest to quieten down, it may be a good idea to find them an activity for the duration of your interview.
TIP 5 – Dress to impress!
Like any regular job interview process, adhering to an expected dress code is ideal for giving the interviewer a great first impression. It is always better to err on the side of caution and dress smarter than expected if you are unsure. Being underdressed will likely harm your confidence and put you on the back foot, even through a computer screen.
We hope these tips help you prepare for the very different proposition of a remote job interview, Marine People provide interview coaching and CV workshops to all of our candidates during these difficult times. You can view our latest job opportunities here!
