The post How to prepare for a virtual job interview? first appeared on Doussou Emplois.
]]>
Succeeding your remote job interview
But more seriously, what should you do to shine during a remote job interview? Generally, the format will remain the same. That is, you will introduce yourself, the company will be discussed and the recruiter will ask questions to see if you are the key person for the company. So, it’s not rocket science, prepare yourself as you did before knowing that some questions about your accomplishments, qualities and flaws may be asked. More specifically, here are some tips for a successful remote interview.
You might think that since the interview is virtual, hygiene is less of a concern, but no. Are you used to not shaving because you go out less often? Very good, but make an effort for recruiters. It is a guarantee of professionalism. As was the outfit elsewhere. Working in a dressing gown is probably comfortable, but for the interview, professional clothing will make all the difference.
It goes without saying that personal hygiene is essential, but do not forget your meeting room. Unless you opt for a background that hides the meeting place, it is advisable to tidy the room.
When you waited in a company’s waiting room to be called, you were probably sitting up straight and adopting a confident posture. It goes without saying that this is transposed even virtually. Smile, you’re being filmed!
Besides, speaking of the camera, your gaze should be directed towards it. We tend to look at his image, but that’s a mistake. Looking at the camera will give recruiters a good visual impression and they will see confidence in you. Looking at your image, from their point of view, could be interpreted as elusive.
Some things like the internet connection or a frozen image are beyond your control. However, the location selected to conduct your interview is up to you. Therefore, choose a location free from distracting noise. If you have children, make sure they are a safe distance away. Not only will it be more professional, but your messages will be better captured by your listener. Conversely, you will hear the questions of the employer better.
When your interview is downtown, while on the road, do you practice in your head what questions you could be asked? Do the same for the virtual interview. Classic questions about your soft skills and technical abilities will most likely come up after the introduction. Prepare yourself in advance so as not to be thrown off balance by an unforeseen event.
Also, preparation should be done with your computer. Test your equipment before the event. Your headset, your microphone, your screen, your internet connection or even your computer’s battery are all parameters that should be checked.
Work on your posture and enthusiasm. Responsiveness and enthusiasm can be felt. So, do not hesitate to participate actively during the interview. Also, accept that breaks might take place. This is normal, the internet connection may not be related to the break. The person you are talking to is probably preparing the next set of questions. So, like in a real interview, smile and be patient.
Finally, an advantage that you have in virtual is that your interlocutor sees you, but he does not see 360 degrees. If you want to stick notes on the edges of your screen, you can. Just make sure you don’t read them too much and keep your gaze directed towards the camera as much as possible.
There you go, you should be equipped to be successful in remote job interviews. The Doussou Emplois team wishes you good success in your future opportunities!
The post How to prepare for a virtual job interview? first appeared on Doussou Emplois.
]]>The post How to respond to “What is your biggest flaw?” first appeared on Doussou Emplois.
]]>This question is a classic. It allows them to learn more about you about weaknesses that you are unlikely to display during the interview. We all have froze when this question came up during our first job interview. We figured we’d be prepared for the next time, but each time our response was a bit awkward, we felt like we got tangled up in our brushes and had a poor interview. There are several ways to answer the question: What is your biggest flaw? Here are three that you can put into practice in your future interviews. Obviously, you must remain sincere, the opposite would be felt.
1. Talking about improved skills
That is, when you are asked about your biggest flaw you can turn the answer around to talk about a weakness you have been working on. In addition to answering the question, you are demonstrating to the person in front of you that you are a modest person who works on yourself in order to improve who you are. Remember not to talk about key skills for the job. This could have the perverse effect of causing doubts about your achievements and your qualifications for the job.
For example, Pierre is a freelance writer who applies for a writing contract: The numbers have often scared me. This is why I specialized in writing since words have no secrets for me. However, during my previous job, I had to use various analysis tools to see the scope of my articles. I have been able to greatly improve my skills with numbers while applying them to my writing job.
2. Talking about non-essential skills
To the same extent as the first point, here we can be honest and name one of our flaws. On the other hand, by taking care to choose a defect which will not harm our position. Since your fault will not be essential to the success of your task, it will not harm you. Obviously, remember to evaluate the scope of your words. What we mean by this is that in naming one of your weaknesses, you need to make sure that it is not essential to the success of the job, but also that the employer understands well what you are trying to say. If you apply to give training and say that you are not comfortable speaking in front of several people, it will not work since it is probably one of the most important skills.
For example, Alice is a freelance writer applying for a design contract : Personally, my biggest fear is speaking to a crowd. I am a fairly reserved person and it takes a lot of effort to speak in front of several people. However, I enjoy talking about my ideas and the creative aspect of my work in committee since I feel competent when it comes to it.
3. Transforming a flay into a quality
Flaws aren’t all equal. Moreover, there is a way to transform into quality what, for some positions, would be a flaw. Being picky to the point of having an OCD can be seen as a flaw, or an asset! It is up to you to sell this flaw as a quality that enables a quality product to be delivered. Regardless of what you choose as a flaw, you should mention that you know you have it, but that doesn’t stop you from being productive. Indeed, this is what can come up from a flaw, like the one we mentioned.
For example : Frédérique is a freelance writer and applies for an accounting contract : I am an anxious woman. From school where I was anxious to perform well until now, I always remember wanting to be effective at what I did. However, it keeps me ahead of the game and I never deliver a report late. This anxiety however does not affect the rest of my life where I am a balanced person who likes to move around and get out of my comfort zone.
The post How to respond to “What is your biggest flaw?” first appeared on Doussou Emplois.
]]>The post Job research – A practical guide first appeared on Doussou Emplois.
]]>Step 1
The first step in finding a job is to look around to find out about all the possibilities available to you. We recommend that you list your areas of interest and be able to recognize your strengths. At this step, also determine your goals and expectations for the job you are looking for. Obviously, your expectations and needs must be compatible with your job searches. Note that you may have to adjust your choices or criteria. Take time to think things through so that you can get all the information you need to make informed choices.
Step 2
Finding job openings can seem more complicated than it sounds. At this stage, you fill your toolbox. You prepare your CV, your portfolio and a personalized letter of introduction. For starters, your resume is your essential tool in the job search. It is, in fact, a written portrait of you. This tool allows the employer to know, among other things, your previous work experiences, your training, your fields of interest, etc. Often, the information listed on a resume is broken down into categories. Certain categories are essential, for example, your contact details and personal information (name, address, email, telephone number), your training (studies or schooling) by entering the establishments attended and the dates of your training. Also, write down all your work experience, that is to say all the positions you have held and specify the start and end dates of your duties.
Very important to update your profile on social networks, especially on Linkedin.
LinkedIn will be your online tool, it is a social media intended for the professional world. In fact, it’s a bit like your CV, but available to everyone on the web. Many job offers are posted on this platform. It is therefore a tool to be used, both for finding a job and for companies looking for employees.
The key to success is staying professional, so having a social media presence, but not overdoing it.
Step 3
At this step, you start the search.
Of course, in 2021 the best tool for finding job offers is the internet.
There are a multitude of sites for posting job offers. Each platform works in their own way : you can either directly upload your CV and your introduction letter on the site, and send, from the platform, all your information to apply for the offer, or you must contact the employer yourself by email to apply.
Some sites allow you to find offers that match all of your pre-selected criteria, and you can receive email alerts when new jobs enter the site. It is recommended to take a tour of all job sites to not miss an opportunity.
Step 4
Preparing your interview. This step is very important, because it is the moment to showcase your skills and your qualities. Once you have an interview confirmation, be sure to note the date, place and time of the interview. Try to prepare for all kinds of interviews: aptitude tests, personality tests, scenario, etc.). Always learn about the company and the position. Prepare a list of questions to ask the employer. In return, prepare yourself for certain questions that will be asked to you, such as: Why do you want to work with us?, What are your weak points?, What is your salary expectation?, etc. Plan on appropriate clothing, and plan your itinerary to arrive a little early to the interview.
At the time of the interview, make a good impression. Stay calm and confident. Listen and ask questions, it helps to show that you are involved and interested. No matter how the interview went, thank the person interviewing you for their time.
When it is over, follow up on your interview: ask yourself what are the strengths of your meeting, the difficulties encountered, did you forget anything? In short, take stock, while hoping for a positive return.
The post Job research – A practical guide first appeared on Doussou Emplois.
]]>