Question: I have an in-person interview. What should I be prepared for in these COVID-19 times?
Answer: Preparation is the key to successful interviews and thinking ahead about what’s changed because of the pandemic is a smart move! Here are some tips to help you navigate the return of the in-person interview.
Preparation and practice remain the key elements to acing your interviews whether it is over the phone, by video or in-person. All ‘before the interview’ activity such as planning what to wear, reviewing the job requirements, doing research on the company and thinking ahead about potential questions and your answers, still apply. When you get the call to set up the interview, ask about what protocols such as wearing masks and physical distancing to expect when you arrive on site. It is recommended that you come prepared with a mask and hand sanitizer. If you plan to wear a mask during the interview, regardless of workplace requirements, you can let them know in advance if you like. When you arrive, follow any signage and use hand sanitizer, if available.
Handshakes would be the norm when meeting your interviewer(s) but it is perfectly acceptable to skip the ‘shake’ during these times – and I recommend you do. Instead, you can say with a smile, “We’re not shaking hands these days, but it is great to meet you.” You can also gesture with a wave or slight bow. If hand sanitizer is offered when you arrive to the meeting room, use it.
During the question and answer portion of the interview, you may want to prepare for a COVID-19- related question or two. Employers may be interested in how you’ve been coping while job searching, studying or working. Take a moment to watch Career Specialist, Amy Smith’s recent Virtual Career Tip posted on LinkedIn for more ideas related to pandemic related questions.
As the interview closes, previously, you may have asked for a business card or offered one. It’s likely best to bypass this as well. If you don’t have contact information for your interviewers, ask for email addresses as part of the interview wrap up when you have the opportunity to ask questions. Related to this, you may consider asking, “How has the pandemic affected your operations?” or, “How has the pandemic changed how your employees are working?” When the interview is over, reward yourself with a good hand wash and a pat on the back!
Once again, preparation is the key to boosting your comfort level and confidence with interviews. Check out our interview resources on our resources page here – you can also launch our self-study “How to Ace your Interviews” from this page. If a workshop is more your style, visit our events calendar for the 1-hour Interview virtual workshop schedule.
Congratulations on your interview … you’ve got this!
