We caught-up with Saundra Wade, APAC Marketing & Communications Director at Sonru, to get some advice for job seekers. Sonru, provides video interviewing software and is present in various parts of the world, including Singapore, UK, Europe, Australia, UAE and the US.
For people who are looking for a new job, what are some marketable qualities or abilities that will help them stand out from the other candidates, and what are some ways for job hunters to emphasize these qualities?
It really depends on the role.
In general, people want to see drive, initiative, problem-solving abilities.
Being prepared is key; make sure you’ve done your research on the company, their industry, members of the team, your potential new boss, latest news, etc. Nothing worse than a candidate who hasn’t done a simple Google search on the company, its competitors and the industry.
Just go the extra mile; it shows you really want the role.
Also personal brand is important; make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and relevant, engage in groups and discussions, post updates regularly, write your own posts on LinkedIn or maintain a blog. Also get recommendations from former colleagues, and endorsements for different skills - all that helps.
For recruiters, what are some of the most attractive qualities in a prospective employee, and what are some signs they look for in the applicants?
Again it depends on the role, but ultimately recruiters want to know if you can do the job, if you will fit in with the company culture and team.
Presentation is key, especially with video/physical interviews.
Also confidence in your abilities, and a hunger or desire as well as attitude, plus skill set that matches the job you applied for.
Obviously social media is part of our world, including the business world. For people who are job hunting, do you have any advice on ways they can use their social media channels to illustrate their abilities?
Absolutely. LinkedIn, of course, is key for demonstrating skills and experience, as well as making connections and networking, and getting recommendations.
Twitter is a great way to show knowledge and experience, interest in different subjects, as well as engagement with others and how you communicate.
Creating video content and posting to YouTube and Vimeo works well; you can embed this on your LinkedIn profile as well as Slideshare for presentations.
Reputation is important, so what you don’t post on social channels is as important as what you do.
Also, on the other side of that coin, social media is a great way to learn more about a company, their culture and their latest news.
Can you give us a couple of quick video interviewing tips for job hunters?
For a video interview, the key part is to treat it no differently than a face-to-face interview.
Make sure you’re dressed to impress, just like you would be if you were going in to meet someone face to face.
Avoid distractions, and make sure you won’t be interrupted by anything while you’re recording your interview. Body language is important, so sit up straight and be confident. And don’t forget to smile 🙂