Virtual Interviews have revolutionized the way employers in the Gulf find talent. As per regional HR surveys, now 78 percent of Gulf companies provide initial interviews virtually. Also, 65 percent of employers intend to keep hybrid interviewing after the pandemic.

Gulf organizations have saved an average of 35% in hiring times using Virtual Interviews. Furthermore, organizations record 40 percent savings in recruitment costs in terms of travel and facility needs. Interview opportunities other than traditional applications are also available through networking events and virtual job fairs. 

Essential Technology Preparation for Successful Virtual Interviews

Successful remote interviews depend on technology preparation. The pre-test of all equipment will avoid embarrassing technical failures during critical conversations.

• Test the internet connectivity at least an hour before the meeting. Also, ensure that your camera, microphone, and video conferencing software are tested.
  
• Unfortunately, you need to close applications that may slow down your computer.
• Install the necessary programs such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet ahead of time. Familiarize yourself with the functionalities of the platforms, such as screen sharing and chat.
  
• You should reboot your system before the interview, in order to do your best.
  
• You have to have your camera at eye level and look professional. Have backup plans ready, including mobile hotspot access or alternative devices.

Create the Perfect Professional Environment

The environment setup directly influences the perception of interviewers in a virtual meeting. The right backgrounds and lighting should be used when creating a long-lasting positive impression.

• Choose areas with minimal distractions. Keep the family informed of when your interview takes place to avoid unwanted interruptions. Lock doors if necessary to maintain privacy.
  
• Make sure that you are facing sources of natural light or front-facing lamps. Do not sit in front of bright windows that create the silhouette effect.
  
• Choose neutral, clutter-free backgrounds that appear professional and organized. Also, test the place you have selected with the help of video calls before your interview. Clean visible areas and remove personal items that might distract interviewers.

Professional Appearance Standards for Remote Meetings

Professional appearance remains equally important in virtual settings as in traditional interviews. Wear fully professional clothing, not only up to the waist, which can be seen on the screen.

• Stay away from busy patterns that may appear distorted on video. Most skin tones would look good in navy blue, gray, and white.
• In case of individuals interested in a property consultant job, business casual or professional attire will fit well with the expectations of the industry.
• Do not wear jewels that will cause distracting reflections or noise when in motion. Get yourself fully ready, like having a face-to-face meeting.

How To Build Rapport Through Virtual Communication?

Virtual communication needs other methods in comparison to face-to-face conversations. Look straight through the lens of the camera and not at the screen. 

• It is good to talk slowly and take breaks to consider the possibility of audio delays. Make use of hand gestures in their natural form, though do not extend into the camera frame.
• Be sincere when smiling and express enthusiasm in the expression and tone of voice. Nod appropriately to show active listening and interest during conversations. Straighten so as to appear confident and professional.

Do Research and Prepare Before Your Interview 

Study company culture, latest news, and industry trends that influence Gulf markets. Besides, review job descriptions in order to match responses with particular requirements. Write down certain examples showing associated skills and experiences.

Practice the common interview questions aloud so that it becomes easier to deliver and time. In addition, come up with intelligent questions to ask concerning the company growth, teamwork, and career promotion. Behavioral questions should be solved with the help of the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

Major job websites in the UAE are LinkedIn, Bayt, Naukri Gulf, and Indeed Middle East. Also, there are regional-specific platforms such as GulfTalent and Dubizzle Jobs. Candidates seeking new job vacancies in the Gulf need to know the remuneration and compensation packages that are common in the target destinations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Virtual Interviews

• Always avoid attending interviews without technological testing. Additionally, avoid using unreliable internet connections or unfamiliar devices for important conversations. 
• Don't assume built-in computer microphones provide adequate audio quality. 
• Do not sit in areas where other people are moving about or in areas where there is a lot of noise in the background. Avoid the urge to perform multiple tasks or respond to calls when conducting interviews.
• Don't speak too quickly or interrupt interviewers due to audio delays. Don’t eat, drink, or engage in other unprofessional behaviors during video calls.

Follow-up Strategies After Virtual Interviews

Within 24 hrs of the meeting, send thank-you emails. Appreciate the interviewer's time. Keep the messages short, but reiterate interest and qualifications. 

For Gulf job vacancies in Qatar or other regional roles, indicate interest in relocating, where possible. In addition, volunteers are asked to give further information or an explanation about the points of discussion.

Several companies are also using free job posting portals to promote jobs to a large audience. Contact interviewers using professional networking sites where necessary.

What To Do During Technology Troubleshooting During Interviews?

Technical issues inevitably arise during virtual interviews despite careful preparation. 

• Be passive and apologetic when confronted with connectivity problems. Also, have other means of communication, e.g., phone numbers, as a backup to audio-only. 
• Take the initiative to inform of technical problems instead of struggling silently. Keep conversations flowing smoothly by acknowledging delays and asking for clarification when needed. 
• Moreover, suggest rescheduling if technical problems severely impact interview quality. The majority of interviewers will like the truth if you are facing any technical problems.
• Check backup systems and the internet connections prior to big interviews. During conversations, you can place yourself close to wireless routers to achieve maximum signal strength.

Conclusion 

Gulf markets are characterized by the presence of different cultural dynamics. In the case of job vacancies in the UAE, most companies favour individuals who are already within the target countries because of visa processing concerns.

In some cases, language preferences prefer Arabic or English based on the demographics of the company. Do not make assumptions about the background or preferences of interviewers.