COVID-19 had a significant impact on job searches. Core portions of the recruitment process had to be altered to account for shelter-in-place orders, social distancing, and general safety. As a result, specific approaches that were once considered best practices don’t work in today’s landscape. Changes had to be made.
As a result, job search etiquette has also shifted. Candidates have to adjust their expectations and adapt to the new paradigm. Otherwise, they may have a more challenging time landing a new role.
By understanding how the landscape has been altered by COVID-19, candidates can prepare for becoming the new normal. With that in mind, here’s a look at the job search etiquette shifts that the pandemic is making necessary.
Virtual Interview Job Search Etiquette
One of the easiest ways to move forward with recruitment processes in a post-COVID-19 world is to take much of the experience online. Virtual interviews allow hiring managers to get to know candidates without meeting in person, making them a reasonable stand-in for the traditional approach.
However, the video interview requires some adjustments. Candidates have to prepare their spaces appropriately, invest in reliable tech, and attempt to control their environment.
Ideally, candidates need to see how they and their office space look on camera before the interview. Camera angles, wall colors, lighting choices, and décor items in the frame all impact the experience, so job seekers need to spend time reviewing what’s in view of the camera and take reasonable action to ensure everything comes through clearly and is appropriate.
Additionally, candidates can’t expect hiring managers to be sympathetic if they have subpar technology. While you don’t have to have a cutting-edge camera, headset, or microphone, they need to be of decent quality and reliable overall. If you can’t be seen or heard clearly, it’s time for new tech.
Finally, while hiring managers understand that you’re likely interviewing from home, candidates need to do their best to limit interruptions or extraneous noise. Pick a quiet room with a door you can close and potentially lock. Let family members know you are unavailable during the interview. That way, you can give the hiring manager your full attention.
Online Skills Testing Etiquette Tips
Many companies have incorporated skills testing or trial projects into their recruitment processes as a means of finding top talent. If you are asked to complete a task, there are a few steps you should take.
First, ask the hiring manager for a due date for the test or sample. Not only does this let you know how long you have to finish, but it may also help you gauge the recruitment process timeline.
Second, plan to handle the test or project as quickly as possible. If you weren’t given a specific due date, then you want to assume that sooner is better than later. This is especially true of the hiring manager is considering several applicants, as they may choose a frontrunner as soon as they see an impressive submission.
However, even if you are given a due date that’s several days away, that doesn’t mean you don’t want to be ahead of the curve. Not only are you ensuring the hiring manager gets what they need quickly, a move that can be interpreted as a sign of respect and diligence, but it also highlights your excitement about the opportunity.
Ultimately, job search etiquette has been impacted by COVID-19. With the tips above, you can make sure you’re ready to shine in this new paradigm. If you’d like to learn more or are looking for a new job, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us today.
