In the current situation, restrictions and short-time work are having a massive impact on the economy. Many skilled workers are competing for a few, highly sought-after jobs. How do you present yourself ideally in a video interview? And do you keep your mouth and nose protection on during a face to face job interview? I am delighted to welcome Christoph Fischbach, HR Business Partner at Yokogawa Germany, today.
Christoph Fischbach joined Yokogawa in 2015 and has been recruiting employees for the DACH region ever since.
O&G Blog: Hello Christoph, it is good to have you here today to answer our questions. For the time being, the ban on contact will remain in force until the end of June. How are job interviews conducted at Yokogawa at the moment?
Christoph Fischbach: Of course both parties have to adapt to the circumstances. Due to the special situation, it is not advisable to invite applicants to our company. Video interviews are a good alternative. We have already used these in advance, primarily with international candidates for whom travel to the first interview is not possible due to the distance.
O&G Blog: What should applicants pay attention to during a video interview?
Christoph Fischbach: The parties of the conversation should be “visible”, e.g. the face should be completely recognizable. However, this variant also poses some challenges. The equipment should always be checked in advance to ensure that it is fully functional. Does the sound work? Is the internet connection stable? Also, the lighting conditions should be checked beforehand, they should not be too dark. Filming against the light is also not recommended.
O&G Blog: Absolute Don’ts in a video interview?
Christoph Fischbach: Both parties should find a quiet place for the interview. A café is not suitable for this. Furthermore, attention should be paid to the background. For example, a pile of dirty laundry does not make a particularly good impression.
O&G Blog: What should one wear at a job interview?
Christoph Fischbach: So that everyone feels comfortable. There’s no point in getting into a role you don’t like. Otherwise, you lose your authenticity. However, you should not wear a simple T-shirt – a normal shirt or sweater is completely sufficient.
O&G Blog: Many recruiters use the “good cop, bad cop” method. What do you think about that?
Christoph Fischbach: It depends on the situation and what I want to know about the candidate.
O&G Blog: How can an applicant impress you?
Christoph Fischbach: By his or her enthusiasm for the job advertised.
O&G Blog: There are many guidebooks that list the most common questions from an interview. Which question would you never ask in a job interview?
Christoph Fischbach: How many golf balls fit into one Golf?
Thank you very much for the interview! Have you become curious? Then please take a look at our careers page.
