How to show your best self in an online interview or event
Due to the Covid-19 situation, we have seen many things go online, from classrooms to concerts. At Uptree, we have transformed our work experience events and workshops so you can still take part in great opportunities to get that important careers information and have the chance to network with like-minded individuals and professionals.
Careers in the NHS Workshop - 4 June
This may also affect the hiring process for many companies. Whilst video interviews have always been a thing, they may become even more common now.
We have accumulated some top tips for showing your best self in an online interview/event below. If you want more specific tips on interviews in general, take a look at our Standard Interview Types blog .
Top Tips
#1 Remember - just because it is online does not make it any less important. You should act the same way as you would in a regular interview or an online event. Professionalism is KEY.
#2 Although you will be in the comfort of your own home, remember that others can still see you. Make sure to still dress appropriately. This means no pyjamas or inappropriate clothing. Dress as smart as you would if you were attending in real life.
#3 Make sure you have a quiet space that you can use where there are no distractions. This is so that you and the speaker can both hear each other clearly.
#4 Make sure to keep your microphone muted when you are not talking so as not to pick up any background noise or distract others.
#5 If possible, make sure to have a plain background. On Zoom, you can also change your background to a virtual setting.
#6 Make sure to have a notebook and pen with you so you can make notes. For an interview - make sure to have a copy of your CV to hand as well.
#7 For online events - make sure to participate as fully as possible. If there's an option to have your video on, please use it if you feel comfortable. If there is a chat box, make sure to use it when the opportunity is there. Use any additional features such as polls and contribute to discussions.
Deloitte Application Masterclass - 7 May
Summary
This last point is really important to get the most out of your online session. Attending an event from the comfort of our own home means that there are more distractions and you may think you can ‘switch off’ without people noticing. However, it is really easy to notice when others are not focused.
Make sure if you are joining a video call or webinar that you give it all your attention and switch off all other distractions.
The more engaged you are - participating in polls, writing questions in the chat - the more proactive you look and this helps you stand out. This will also make sure you do not waste the session and that you get the most out of it.
Now is a great opportunity to attend as many online events as you can. Remember, any online event you attend is a great addition to your CV and LinkedIn. It shows that you are being proactive during this difficult time and that really impresses employers.
Next steps
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Register for an online work experience session with a top company
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Sign up for an employability workshop - choose from CV, LinkedIn and personal branding, as well as careers in STEM, law, business & finance, the NHS and more.
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Take part in #UptreeLive on Tuesdays & Thursdays - an interactive session with a range of industry professionals on Instagram
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Read a student's view about attending an online workshop
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Read what to expect during an online workshop
By Uptree
Published on:
Thu 18 Jun 2020