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Messy Rooms and ‘Missing Trousers’

Jonathan Shepherd-Stubbs • 16 April 2021


New research from BT Skills for Tomorrow has uncovered the biggest video interview faux pas – some of which could well be costing jobseekers their dream role.

The 500-strong study of recruitment decision-makers revealed that almost one-third admitted to not hiring a person based on something that they had seen in the backdrop of the call.

A further 58% said that a messy or untidy room in the background could cost a candidate the role, while 67% of interviewers believe that candidates didn’t put enough thought into their virtual video background.

The study found that some interviewees have been caught short, with 13% standing up midway through the call to reveal that they are dressed in joggers or underwear. Showing interviewers or recruiters that you are missing your trousers probably isn’t the best interview gambit.

20% of calls are said to have been joined by a household pet.

‘Video interviews will likely remain in future’

When the pandemic hit last year, and a large portion of people started to work from home, employers adapted hiring processes and relied on video calls to help them source the talent that they needed.

Going forwards, Hannah Cornick, Head of Digital Impact, Consumer at BT, said that video calls will likely remain part of the hiring process.

As such, she said that there is an opportunity for job candidates to “use this to their advantage”.

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Cornick explained: “Being in control of your environment and in a familiar space can help reduce nerves and allow you to showcase your personality.

“While you can’t always plan for unexpected interruptions, there are things you can do when preparing for a video interview to ensure you come across professionally and set yourself up for success.

“This is the time to show the interviewer your strengths and how you stand out from the crowd, without any distractions from your surroundings,” she added.

Cornick’s thoughts – regarding the use of video calls in the hiring process going forwards – align with research which has pointed towards an appetite among employers to continue this post-pandemic.

In fact, research published in Jobvite’s 2020 Recruiter Nation Report found that 40% of recruiting experts believe that virtual interviews will continue to be the default moving forwards.

As such, it is crucial for jobseekers to know how to ace a virtual job interview to bolster their chances of securing the job.

How candidates can ace a virtual job interview

Mandy Watson, Director at employment agency Ambitions Personnel, told HR Grapevine that BT Skills’ research highlights the lack of preparedness in video interviews. Yet, she said that, sadly, this is not limited to them.

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She explained: “As any recruiter will tell you, face-to-face meetings can take similarly unpredictable twists and turns, but we’re seeing a new level of this thanks to interviews being held in candidates’ homes.”

She advised candidates to prepare for virtual job interviews in the same way that they would if they were heading out to meet a potential employer.

The recruitment expert explained: “The basics are essential, connection, tidiness and etiquette should be at the back of your mind, along with the killer answers you have prepared for the range of questions you might expect for the position.

“If you’re able, set up a test call on the platform you are going to be interviewed on and call a friend or family member just to be sure it looks professional and that you won’t be caught out.

“Not everyone is as versed with video calls as we expect, so small elements that make all the difference should be paid attention to. Use natural light, elevate your camera to be at eye level and dress appropriately.

“Make sure any noise sources are switched off or in another room and just judge the situation for yourself. Visible hanging washing or piles of clutter don’t give the impression of an organised candidate,” Watson concluded.

 

Published by HR Grapevine – April ‘21

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LinkedIn Poll Results - December 2024

by Simon Clark • 19 December 2024
As we approach the end of 2024, our latest LinkedIn poll sought to uncover the primary professional goals of our network for the upcoming year. The responses we received provide a clear indication of shifting priorities in the modern workplace as we head into 2025. An overwhelming 64% of respondents identified 'Better Work/Life Balance' as their top professional goal for the new year. This significant majority underscores a growing trend among professionals prioritising their well-being and personal time equally with their career ambitions. It reflects a broader movement towards achieving a healthier balance between professional responsibilities and personal life, emphasising the importance of mental health and overall life satisfaction. 'Career Advancement' still remains a priority for many, with 21% of the votes, showing that climbing the professional ladder continues to be important but perhaps balanced with a desire for quality-of-life improvements. Surprisingly, both 'Skill Development' and 'Networking' received the same level of focus, each garnering 7% of the vote this month. This suggests that while continuing education and expanding professional connections are still valued, they may currently take a back seat to more pressing concerns related to personal well-being and career progression. These poll results highlight a critical shift in professional goals as we move into 2025, with a notable emphasis on achieving a sustainable work/life balance. This insight is invaluable for employers and HR professionals as they plan support systems and corporate cultures that align with the evolving needs of today’s workforce.

Key Indicators of a Successful Interview

by Jonathan Shepherd-Stubbs • 29 November 2024
Interviews are often the most nerve wracking part of the job seeking process and whilst you might be happy that you got the interview, you might wonder if it went as well as you’d hoped. This is a natural reaction to something as important as your career but there are several key signs that suggest your interview was a success, let’s take a look at them. Positive Body Language and Engagement We can usually tell when we get on well with someone and you can also read subtle signs in the interviewers body language which could mean that you left a good impression. Were they leaning forward, engaging with you and seeming interested in what you had to say? Did they respond enthusiastically to your answers? These are all good signs. The Interview Takes Longer Than Expected Interviews are typically structured to a strict timeframe to allow the interviewer to see multiple people and find the best candidate for the job. If your interview has gone over the allotted time but it doesn’t feel rushed, this is a really good sign and means that the company is open to learning more about you and sees potential. Natural Conversations If you have built up a natural rapport with your interviewer and the interview doesn’t seem like a basic question and answer session, this bodes well. If the interviewer also shares information about the company culture, team and future plans with you at this stage, it’s a sign they see you becoming part of their company. Next Steps Discussion If the employer takes the time to explain what the next steps of the process are going to be during your interview, asks about your availability for further stages or lets you know about their onboarding process, these are all good indicators that you are being strongly considered for the role. Introduction and Highlighting the Benefits Another sign that your interview has gone well is if your interviewer introduces you to other team members or key decision makers during the course of your interview. This shows that they personally have deemed you a good fit for the role and could be looking for a second opinion before they make a hiring decision. The interviewer could also begin to highlight the benefits of you working for their organisation, they might mention the ‘perks’ of working for the company, any career progression opportunities or just that it’s a great place to work. They could be trying to sell you the role within the company which often means they think you are a strong candidate.  Whilst the above points aren’t a guaranteed measure of success, they are really encouraging signs that your interview has gone well and that you have made a good impression on the company. If you are currently navigating the job market and need some professional support and guidance, we can help, contact us for advice and information on our current vacancies today.
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