Short answer: Possibly!
What we mean by this is that some employers now have preliminary interviews via video, with second, etc. interviews taking place in person. If you feel your in-person job interviewing skills could use a “glow up,” here are some tips to help you master both remote and in-person job interviews.
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Video interviews often are first interviews.
You may have subsequent interviews via video, but if an employer wants to interview you again, they may ask you to come on-site for the second and third interviews.
A video interview makes it easy for employers to screen candidates without having to worry about the logistical steps needed to schedule an on-site visit. This makes sense from the employer’s viewpoint: why bring someone in for a first interview unless you know they’re truly a good match. If that video interview goes well, you may be asked to come on-site for your second, third, etc. interviews. You’ll probably meet other team members and will participate in more detailed talks about the position.
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Preparing for an in-person interview.
Preparation for meeting on-site is quite similar to a video interview: you should research the company before the interview, understand the job (it’s Ok to ask questions about it at the interview).
You also need to put together some thoughtful questions, just as you would during a video interview. Practice beforehand how you’ll answer common questions and make sure to refine your answer to “tell me about yourself” and “why should we hire you” questions.
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Your in-person interview outfit truly matters.
If you’ve been wearing “business on the top and napping on the bottom” outfits for video interviews, you’ll need to step up your apparel game.
Ask the recruiter or hiring manager before the interview what the dress code is at the company. This will give you an idea of how “business-like” your interview clothing should be. No matter what it is – very formal, business casual, casual — you should dress a “step up.” For example, if the code is “business casual,” both men and women should opt for a blazer and nice slacks/skirt (a matching suit isn’t necessary). If it’s a more formal dress code, a business suit with a matching jacket and slacks/skirt is called for.
The idea is to dress one notch higher for a job interview than most of the company’s employees do every day. This shows respect and that you’re very serious about the position.
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Watch your (body) language.
The way you “hold” yourself during an in-person interview also is truly important. Your interviewer can see all of you. If you’re slouching during a video interview, the interviewer probably won’t know. Instead, you want to sit up straight and look your interviewer directly in the eye. It’s Ok to shift positions, but do try not to fidget.
The idea is to ensure that your non-verbal clues (your dress, your demeanor, etc.) showcase engagement and confidence.
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Speaking of engagement…
Show your interest in the interviewer as well as the position via engaging with the interviewer. Ask questions. Nod as the interviewer speaks; this shows you’re listening. Sit up straight in your chair. Women can cross the legs, but be careful about how much skin you show (the idea is to be comfortable, but professional). Men don’t need to cross their legs, but neither should they splay them too widely.
If there’s one thing you definitely should not do is slouch. This shows a lack of interest (even if it’s more comfortable for you). Some people also look at it as a sign of your disinterest and even disrespect.
All other aspects of the interview are the same whether conducted in person or via video: you want to present yourself as the best candidate for the job.
If you’re in the market for a new position, take a look at Debbie’s Staffing’s current job openings. Send us your resume even if you don’t see a position that appeals to you: we often fill jobs with candidates who have sent their resumes in before we ever place a position on our job board.