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JOB HUNTING 2020: HOW YOU CAN PREPARE FOR VIRTUAL/ONLINE INTERVIEWS

Posted On April 16, 2020 

Finding a job in 2020 is different. By using a combination of traditional and new communication methods, you can discuss job opportunities, interview for roles and view a potential new workplace without leaving your home. Whilst ideally face to face contact is preferred, meetings and interviews via technology will become part of your new normal.


Here’s how we think it will look, what is means for you and how we see it working within recruitment.


The process for recruitment will remain the same, therefore now is the time to:

  • review and update your CV
  • think about how you write your cover letter.
    Whilst there is a growing trend in video applications, the written approach remains most popular for this first recruitment step.
  • be prepared for a phone call to discuss your skills and attributes, your expectations of work and what you can bring to the job opportunity.
  • Prep for your online interview


Consider Skype, ZOOM, Facetime and Google Hangouts as a couple of the most popular apps currently being used. If you are not familiar with an app/programme let the employer or your friendly Recruitment Specialist know so they can offer more information. Some apps such as Skype require setting up an account beforehand whereas others such as ZOOM can be accessed via a shared link sent to you.

Tip: Ensure your existing account (email or username) it is suitable for job hunting, fancypantsnancy@gmail may have worked when you did a 3-week holiday last year but is not suitable for presenting yourself to an employer. 

Remember to approach a virtual meeting the same way you would an actual interview face to face: 

  • be presentable
  • brush your hair and ditch the hoody for something appropriate for the role you are considering
  • ensure you have a quiet area to “meet”, be it your office or set up your computer from the bedroom
  • check how you will look to others onscreen prior to interview. You may need to close a curtain or change your computer angle
  • organise a suitable time between your potential employer and yourself where you will not be interrupted by others in your bubble (children/pets/flatmates)
  • ask who will be in the meeting, it may-be you are meeting with more than one person
  • prepare for your meeting.
Tip – Ensure you have a contact number in the event technology fails and you cannot access the meeting.

Over the coming months we anticipate a first interview may increasingly be conducted over the internet. Offers may be placed without stepping foot into the physical workplace. Employers will all have their own strategies and policies for the health and safety of workers. As a potential new employee, we expect this will be something shared freely with you. 


As Recruitment Specialists we will continue to support you in your job search as much as we can.  While we are uncertain what opportunities will be available over the coming months what you can be assured of is we remain committed and available to discuss any opportunities which do arise with you and also share market information relevant to you and the Manawatu.


We are here for you, so feel free to get in touch.