Virtual or video interviews are gaining in popularity these days, especially if you’re relocating to new city that’s far way. Because this type of job interviewing is so new, most people aren’t sure how to prepare. I’ve got some tips that will help you look more professional in your video interviews. (Psst! Can't get hired? Watch this free tutorial.) Be aware of your environment. This step is very important and is overlooked by people a lot of the time. Know what's going on and how things look before you start your job interview. Give people a heads up. You want to let the people you live with (i.e. roommates, spouses, kids, etc.) know that you’re going to have an interview so they can be quiet and not walk into the background of your shot. Put away your pets! You don’t want your pets walking around in the background of your video set up. If your pet that tends to make a lot of noise, find someone that can take them for a walk or get them out of the house for a short time while you conduct your video interview. Pick a good spot to set up. You don’t want a dark and messy room as your background. Pick a spot if you can that has lots of natural light and is clean. No beds, kitchens, or clutter in that background! Your virtual interview is likely your first chance to make a great impression. Don't waste this precious opportunity by forgetting the steps above. Now, go nail those video interviews!
Everyone has heard of New Year's resolutions. You know, those promises we make to ourselves about things we'll do better in the year ahead. Sometimes these resolutions work, while other times we end up with gym memberships we never use! But have you ever heard of a career resolution? It's actually the same thing as a New Year's resolution, only career-focused.
However, with something as important as a career, you don't want to break these resolutions. That's why it's important to keep these goals manageable.
Here are four simple career resolutions that are easy to stick to and achieve.
Be Self-Aware Of Where You Stand In Your Career
BigstockBeing honest and self-aware of where you are in your career is the most important step in making strong career resolutions. If your career is going nowhere and you're unhappy, then it may be time to consider a career change, which will take you down a different path entirely.
But if you're happy and in good standing with your career, it's a lot easier to set goals for the year and build out a long-term career plan.
Find A Way To Grow Your Career
BigstockCareer growth is a very broad spectrum that means something different to everyone. It could be something as simple as improving on a weakness or building on a strength. It could also be learning a new skill or taking on additional responsibilities at work.
On a larger level, it could be seeking a promotion or moving into a leadership role.
Whatever the goal is, make sure it includes growing professionally. The worst thing you can do is stay the same! If you're not growing your career, you're dying—and becoming a lot less valuable to your employer. There are always ways to upskill!
Better Serve Your Professional Network
With current colleagues, former colleagues, and other professional acquaintances, you've probably built a solid professional network through the years. A strong professional network can come in handy if you lose your job or are looking to make a career change. However, you shouldn't just rely on your network when you're in need!
It's important to find ways to offer value to your network. This could include checking in with members of your network from time to time. Exchange messages on LinkedIn to see how they're doing or share relevant content of interest. If you can help someone in your network going through a career challenge, you should!
Maintaining a strong professional network is like an investment. If you want it to pay off, you have to put some time into it and be consistent.
Take Care Of Yourself
Bigstock
Working on your career is hard work! It's okay to be selfish sometimes. Whether you're working to grow your career or looking for a new job, it's important to find balance.
Your family and health always come first, so make sure your career goals don't interfere with that. If you want to set aside time during the week to work on your career that's fine, but don't miss important family events or milestones.
Don't let your career goals get in the way of your health goals. Go to the gym, take a walk, or go for a jog. Balance is key to maintaining healthy career and life goals. Sometimes you just need to adjust that balance as you go.
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This article was originally published at an earlier date.