There are now a multiplicity of ways companies conduct interviews in the post-pandemic world! While some companies may still continue to conduct virtual interviews, others may revert to conducting them in-person. Yet others may choose to employ a combination of both interview methods. You need to remain adaptable and nimble.

Have your in-person interview skills gotten rusty from attending virtual interviews in the comfort of your living room? Here are 4 guidelines to reorient yourself and excel in face-to-face interviews:

1. Enquire Before the Interview

Before you head down for the face-to-face interview, it is a good idea to check whether the company has any Covid-19 safety measures in place. You can email the HR person you have been liaising with—or just drop him or her a call. Your questions can pertain to social distancing guidelines, sanitisation and mask-wearing policies.

By enquiring about these logistical details, you will demonstrate initiative, which is an important trait companies look out for in candidates. You will also have a better idea on how to prepare for your interview.

2. Be Punctual

For a face-to-face interview, it is not as straightforward as logging onto Zoom five minutes prior to the set interview time. To make a good first impression, you have to be punctual. This is a simple point which is often overlooked. Some candidates rehearse their answers to popular interview questions—but forget to review their travel plans with that same rigour. Never be late!

If you are not very familiar with the exact location, you should search for the office address on Google Maps and determine the fastest route to get there. Make sure you set off from home at least 15 minutes earlier, in the event of a traffic jam or inclement weather.

3. Project Confidence

As you will be meeting with the hiring manager in person, you have to be mindful of your body language. Stand tall and sit up straight; do not let your shoulders slouch. Maintaining an erect posture will help you to radiate confidence and enthusiasm. Moreover, avoid fidgeting—fidgeting with your hands or shifting uneasily in your seat can be unwelcome distractions.

While you wish to project an aura of confidence, you also want to show that you understand the proper interview protocols. For instance, you should wait for the hiring manager to initiate a handshake, especially in this post-pandemic era when physical contact is a sensitive issue.

4. Enquire about the Company Culture

Since late April 2022, all employees in Singapore are legally allowed to return to the workplace. However, different companies have vastly differing policies with their employees. Even the work arrangements for different teams within the same company may vary. Before the interview concludes, you may want to check with the hiring manager about his or her team’s practice, whether it be fully remote work, hybrid work or 100% work from office.

Other questions you can ask the hiring manager are as follows: “How does your company recognize the achievements of their employees?” “Does your company have initiatives to encourage growth and learning?” The answers you receive will help you figure out if you are a good cultural fit for that particular company.

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