Business

from Life In Orpington September 2022

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lifestyle Business

5 top tips to nail your video interview

Businesses worldwide are quickly transitioning to new technologies to help speed up their recruitment process, which is why video interviews are becoming far more frequent in the hiring process. If you have a video interview coming up, here are five tips to ensure you’re as prepared as possible, courtesy of Paul Lewis, MD of Pitman Training…

1. Check your tech: Familiarise yourself with the platform the interview will be conducted on, download it and use it to call a friend the day before. Also, check your internet speed, your computer audio and webcam in advance. Don’t forget to plug your laptop charger in before you start. 2. Prepare for the worst: Sometimes your internet

connection just won’t work. However, most platforms used for video interviews are now available for smart

phones so you can use your 4/5G if necessary. Before the interview, give the interviewer your phone number in case of technical difficulties. This shows that you’re forward thinking and can adapt to challenging situations. 3. Dress for success: Despite the fact you aren’t meeting face-to-face, it’s important to make sure you dress accordingly. Look on your prospective employer’s website and social media channels to gauge their workplace attire and dress accordingly.

PROFESSIONAL HEAD SHOTS

Chances are, if you own a business, you’ll be on LinkedIn – a social media platform that is geared towards businesspeople. Most use a professionallooking headshot for their profile and that’s because they know that the message they give out is that they care, which ultimately translates as ‘they’ll do a great job’. Local photographer Warren King has been shooting profile pictures for the last 20 years and knows the importance of getting the right shot. Offering some tips, he says: “A natural and genuine smile can make all the difference in a photo session. It’s a good idea to wear clothes you feel comfortable in and reflect your position, therefore creating a confident look. It’s my job to put the sitter at ease, so they can relax in front of the camera.” We tried Warren’s services and were impressed at how efficient the session was and with the guidance we were given to attain our best look. The quality of the images was great! After the shoot, we shortlisted our favourites and received the edited versions as high resolution and Linkedin optimised digital files. Warren runs regular ‘Headshot Days’ at Newman Flexible Workspace in Bromley North. The next sessions take place in September on Tues. 6th and Fri. 16th from 10am - 5pm. Prices start at just £70 for a half hour session with two retouched photos included . For details of packages and to make a booking, email warren@wkphotography. co.uk or call on 07779 337765. 4. Mind your (body) language: Be confident, smile,

make eye contact and actively listen to your interviewer throughout. Make sure your webcam is at eye level and look directly into it when answering questions. 5. The early bird: Log in around 15 minutes before the interview is due to prepare. Print out your CV and have it nearby, along with the job description in case you need a cue.

SIGN UP TO ATTEND BECKENHAM BUSINESS DAY!

Beckenham Business Association will play host to its sixth Beckenham Business Day this October. The one-day event is aimed at helping local businesses by providing valuable information across a whole range of topics, as well as the opportunity to network with other like-minded people. Life In…Magazines is proud to be the media sponsor of Beckenham Business Day, which is ideal for all types of businesses. If you don’t yet have a business but are an aspiring entrepreneur, you’re welcome to attend to make great contacts and get invaluable advice. The event will take place in October in Beckenham (date and venue TBC – watch this space!) and will offer a plethora of workshops, speakers and exhibitors. Although the event is aimed at all businesses in and around Beckenham, you don’t have to be based in Beckenham to attend. Businesses will also have the opportunity to exhibit at the event - for exhibitor details email info@beckenhambusinessassociation.co.uk What? Beckenham Business Day Where? Venue TBC within Beckenham Who for? Any type of business When? October – date TBC How? Sign up to get notifications at beckenhambusinessassociation.co.uk/ beckenham-business-day