The virtual job hunt: Navigating online interviews in a pandemic-run world

Getting a job virtually could become the new norm as we move through this pandemic. But how is it different than interviewing in person?

Sixty-four job applications later and Patricia Berg is still looking for another position after getting laid off from the Southwest Florida International Airport in March.

“This has been very frustrating. I spend every morning for a couple of hours just zipping through Indeed,” she said.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, the job search isn’t what it used to be.

“It’s come to the point where technology rules,” Berg said, and that includes interviews.

“There’s no personal…real personal feeling with the employer,” she said.

But with unemployment high in Florida, a lot of people like Berg need to learn to nail these Zoom interviews and how to stand out from others.

That’s where CareerSource comes in. Just like in-person, first impressions go a long way.

“Find a quiet place in your home, no distractions, good video camera, microphone, lighting is very important. Make sure you’re centered in the screen make sure you look at the camera,” said Janeth Castrejon, communications manager for CareerSource Southwest Florida.  “Research the platform. Navigate it.”

While this is all overwhelming for Berg, she says she’s not a quitter.  “I don’t give up. I need a job.”

Experts also suggest you dress the part! That means no shorts under the desk, and send a thank you note after the interview.