While we still call it the modern age, it’s beginning to look more and more futuristic every day.
One of the most immediate trends that every job seeker needs to pay attention to is the adoption of technology in the recruiting process. Gone are the days where telecommuting was only for executives. In today’s workplace, the remote is quickly becoming the reality.
And what does today’s workplace look like? It looks like your kitchen. Your bedroom. The corner cafe. The world is pivoting where business takes place, and if you want to find your place in business, you need to show the world that you’re ready for remote work.
So how does one navigate the virtual to create something tangible? How do you get close to employers when you have to keep your distance? Well, we’ve assembled 6 of the best tips to help you land a job in the dawn of an increasingly digital era. Read on, and we’ll show you how nothing is virtually impossible with the right strategy!
- Practice on video conferencing platforms
Expect that at some point, your recruiter will want to meet you. But it may not be possible to do so in person, whether because of pandemic guidelines, because of the travel distance, or because it’s simply the norm.
That means your first face-to-face meeting with a potential employer could very likely be virtual. And the most complete way to converse online is through video conferencing. The most popular platforms are Zoom, Google Hangouts/Meet, and Skype, but these are only a select few of the many different options people can use to communicate.
If you aren’t familiar with these, start by setting up an account and practicing logging in, setting up and joining meetings, and calibrate your computer setup (as well as your on-camera environment) to work smoothly and proficiently. Call up a friend and ask them to tell you if there is anything that makes speaking with you difficult, or could be improved upon.
If a recruiter asks you to speak with them on a platform you’re not used to, be sure to prepare well in advance and sign in early to deal with any technical issues.
- Do advance research
Job hunting online isn’t just about how you showcase yourself on the internet, but also how well you can understand how others present themselves.
Research your potential employers and try to understand their company culture, their standards of practice, and their operational approach. Consider closely if they are a good fit for you, and be ready to brandish your company knowledge during the interview process.
This should also help you prepare the questions you will want to ask your recruiter, which will show them how organized and interested you really are!
- Connect on the net through social media
If you don’t know by now, recruiters are scoping you out online as part of the hiring process. Their decisions will be just as informed by your application as they will be by the way you appear in social media searches.
This means it’s time to privatize your personal profiles, and fill in the empty spaces in your professional ones. You want to put your best foot forward when it comes to your digital presence, so take time to prune your social media accounts and do searches on your name to see what comes up. If there’s anything you need to address, do it before you apply.
Social media is also a great way to follow companies and learn what they’re all about. Recruiters and talent scouts can also find you this way, so make sure it’s a strong first impression.
- Show off how you’re a perfect fit for the company culture
While the internet might run on a bunch of emotionless ones and zeroes, you still need to make sure your personality shines through to the person on the other end of the line.
Because remote offices have less opportunities for passive connection between coworkers (i.e. the famous water cooler), you need to invest more into being personable right off the bat. Showing that you are agreeable and that recruiters should enjoy your company is how you show them that you’ll be able to seamlessly build the relationships you need with your team, despite the distance.
- Watch your body language
It’s easy to fall into a more robotic version of yourself when no one else is around. But beware that it can become a trap during video interviews and meetings.
Psych yourself up before a call, and don’t let yourself get distracted by things around you. You want the other person to know that you are paying attention and that you are invested in the conversation. Otherwise, they won’t want to invest in you as an employee.
Set up your filming space like you are going to have a conversation with a friend. Relax your shoulders, make eye contact, and use facial expression and gestures to emphasize your points.
The old saying goes that you can hear a smile through the phone — the same sentiment rings true for video calls. Act like they are there with you and you’ll both be more engaged!
- Follow up with an email
After your virtual interview ends, you need to reinforce to the people who participated that your channel is still open for communication, and that you look forward to interacting with them in the future.
It’s also the perfect opportunity to thank them for their effort. Acknowledge the work it takes to manage the recruitment process and let them know that you appreciate the time they took to meet with you.
First impressions matter, but so does the last impression you had of someone. Make sure you close out your application with politeness, sincerity, and maybe even a little pizzazz! You’ll be the first name that comes to mind when they make their decision.
With all these tips in hand, you’re sure to make the kind of impression that will land you your dream job in a virtual world!