How to Master Virtual Security Interviews
As organizations plan for the new normal, many business leaders expect that the traditional onsite interviews will not make a come back for some time. Talent acquisition departments across the globe have converted to virtual formats in an impressive collaboration between IT departments and agile interview teams. While hiring security talent continues to be a priority, we want to be sure that candidates have the tools to succeed in this new climate.
Information Gathering
Without the opportunity of a face-to-face experience, it will not be as easy to observe such things as team interaction or office environment. This gap makes it important to prepare thoughtful questions regarding the opportunity, people, organization, work and rewards to ensure that there is alignment with your goals. During the phone interview(s) take notes, do research and follow up with the technical recruiter and/or hiring manager with additional questions as they arise. Some that you may consider are:
- What are the challenges and highlights of your job?
- Can you describe the department/company culture?
- What soft skills would serve this role?
Pitch
As with any interview process, you will want to be able to present your experience as it aligns with the opportunity. Review the job description, look-up your interviewers on LinkedIn and keep your resume handy. Prepare for technical questions around your security skillset or area of business and be able to speak to how you have applied this knowledge to your career. You will want to provide succinct and detailed examples of how your education and work history qualifies you for the role. Be prepared with real-life examples of challenges and successes that will be necessary for any behavioral interview questions. Examples are:
- Tell me about a time there was a conflict on your team, how did you handle it?
- Give me an example of interacting with a difficult client, what was the situation?
- Tell me about a successful presentation you made and why it went well?
- Describe a time when you saw some problem and took the initiative to correct it rather than waiting for someone else to do it.
In today’s changing world, soft skills are becoming more important than ever. According to LinkedIn, some of the top listed for 2020 include creativity, emotional intelligence, adaptability and collaboration. Employers are looking for flexibility and employees who can think critically and solve problems in the new work environment!
Prepare for the Camera
You are now engaged, excited and interested in the opportunity and it is time to prep for the final video interview.
A video interview requires just as much preparation if not more than an onsite interview. You should create a space where you can focus and have limited disruptions. Be sure to test your equipment, lighting and sound prior to the interview and check that the background is work appropriate. Plan to dress professionally, the goal is to make a positive impact and show that you are serious about the opportunity.
- Get a good night’s sleep so that you are alert and on your “A-game”
- Exercise or do some mindful meditation beforehand to help you focus and stay calm
- Don’t wear distracting jewelry such as bangles that may add noise
- Be patient with the interview team, this is new for them too!
Did you know that most communication is non-verbal? Research by Professor Albert Mehrabian in the 1970s showed that only 7% of what we communicate consists of the literal message, the rest is based on tone, intonation, volume and body language.
- Smile
- Slow down your pace (it’s easy to rush when you are nervous)
- Really listen when others are speaking
- Be aware of nervous behavior such as nail-biting
- Sit up and lean in, show your engagement!
Once the interview is complete, take the time to thank your interviewers and follow up with your recruiter. Whether you land this job or not, you will have expanded your business network and it is always worth leaving a positive impression! To learn more about Onapsis, please feel free to reach out directly or check out our careers page.
