Careers During COVID-19
The world has gone digital. So can your career search.
Hey, Students
I want to assure you that as we are all adapting to the ever-changing circumstances we find ourselves in, the TCU Center for Career & Professional development is committed to helping you navigate current opportunities and ensuring that your professional development is not halted during this time of distance learning. Our intention is to help you make progress towards your career goals and to maximize your professional development by taking full advantage of our services digitally. - Cara Davis, Career Consultant
The Power of LinkedIn
(video here)
Interviewing, Virtually
Let's face it: virtual interviews can seem daunting. Being well-prepared can help.
1. Attire: Dress professionally and simply. Don't wear anything distracting!
2. Background: Sit in front of a clean, simple background. Do your best to minimize distractions and look for soft lighting.
3. Technology: Test everything before your interview. Make sure your internet, computer and sound quality are all functioning properly.
4. Body Language: It matters! You may have to work a little bit harder to convey interest and engagement on a virtual interview. Here's a few bonus tips:
- Greet with a slow and confident nod.
- Lean in to the camera to communicate attentiveness
- Don't overuse large hand gestures or nodding too much
- Be yourself!
5. Eye Contact: Make sure to look into the camera. Eye contact still matters!
6. Elevator Pitch: Perfect your elevator pitch. Find a succinct, 30-second way to communicate your goals and qualifications.
7. Research: Do your research on the company and organization. Be prepared to ask meaningful questions at the end of the interview.
8. Follow Up: Follow up via email 24-hours after the interview.
- Log on 15 minutes early to test out the system. Do not wait until the last minute.
- Control your surroundings and distractions as much as possible.
- Be aware of what is on walls behind you, and remove anything too distracting.
- Dress and present yourself in same way you would in-person.
- Find a quiet place, remove distractions, make sure lighting is good, project a light or lamp upwards, windows should be to the side, not directly behind you.
- Complete your virtual interviews on a desktop or laptop, not a phone!
If you face technical difficulties during your virtual interview, the most important thing to remember is: do not panic. If something goes wrong and you handle it well, it can show the recruiter that you are capable of handling situations you cannot control.
Preparation is Key! Test out the system with a friend or family member beforehand. The more preparation you can do, the better.
Lastly, most hiring managers will understand if you have technical difficulties. It happens to everyone!