What are the common challenges and pitfalls of virtual interviews and assessments and how to avoid them?

People often try to squeeze in Virtual Interviews into their already busy days, treat them with the same respect as face to face interviews and make sure that you have the time to do them. Sitting in your car over lunch might work with some clients but others expect a bit more preparation, speak to your recruiter to get their insight. Also make sure that the interviewers already have your number, if something does go wrong it makes it a lot less stressful.

It goes without saying that you should dress and act professionally, but when talking about body language it's important to note that the interviewers can't see the majority of your body. With 70% of human communication being non-verbal it's important to make sure that you are showing gestural signs, make sure your camera is positioned well for this!

I have a little sticky note with a smiley face beside my camera. It helps me to look at the camera more than I would usually do. If your apartment is small and there is no dedicated space for work/formal calls, use polished online background posters that you can find when using Google Meet, Teams, or Zoom. Finally, using headphones reduces the background noise. I suggest using them if you have one.

Being prepared is the top advice I share for helping to ease nervousness in interviews. Research the company and, if available, the manager you will be interviewing with. Know the details of the role you'll be interviewing for and how your skills align with the position. It's uncommon to find a position that you have 100% of the skills requested so know the areas you can improve on and be prepared to speak on how you will address these areas. Prepare follow-up questions - ask about the team, the company, or initial expectations. Being well prepared is a great confidence booster!

I agree to an extent. You should know who the company is and who you're speaking to. If you practice answers to specific questions then if those questions are asked you'll be golden. However, if the question is off by one word it can change the meaning of the question and you'll be trapped in your answer. Take the time to understand what you've done, understand what the star method is, and take a few seconds to consider your answer. You should ask what's important to you.

I often suggest that my candidates use their smartphones to record themselves answering interview questions, in particular a common one being, "walk me through your resume". When you record yourself and play it back, it gives you an opportunity to see the gaps in your answers and allows time to put the answers together and be more concise, so you don't run on and on. I also recommend to candidates that you look at the bullet points of the job description and practice providing examples of their own experience as it pertains to those bullet points. Remembering to paint a picture of the details around it and providing ROI statements, especially pertaining to project work done.

All employers want a team member who adds value to the business. The easiest way to showcase it is by sharing relevant skills, experience, and knowledge. Usually, the most important skills are included at the top of the required qualifications in the job posting. It would be a good idea to find the core competencies needed for the job in the advertisement and share the ones you have throughout the interview.

Try not to fall in the trap of reading a script on your screen in response to anticipated questions - it is apparent and makes the interview dull. Being your authentic self and speaking on the spot will shine through any other unnecessary tactics!