Reny Mineva, Director Talent Acquisition at VMware shares the best practices to land a job while social distancing.
While we love the opportunity to interact with candidates in-person and showcase our world-class office spaces, ensuring the safety and well-being of our employees and candidates is our top priority. VMware is continuing to hire for open roles with all interviewing and on-boarding done virtually.
An interview is a chance for us to meet and discuss an open position, as well as the candidate unique qualities that they can bring to the role. Through a conversation, we’re striving to learn if they are a good match for VMware. That includes how they fit in with the team, whether they identify with our EPIC2 values and where they see themselves professionally now and in the future. This is also a chance for the candidates to interview us, too.
Preparing for the job interview
We approach every interview as a potential long-term collaboration and we expect that from our candidates as well. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about their job and have the potential to learn, develop and grow with the company – you don’t have to check every box in the requirements but show your passion and enthusiasm to learn.
Preparation for the interview is vital – take your time to learn about VMware and get to know our business. We’ve curated a candidate Preparation guide, that we share beforehead the interviews with info about what to expect during each step of the process, who the interviewers will be. The guide contains several resources, including an overview of VMware software and services, an introduction to our EPIC2 values, and resources that show what it’s like to work here.
During the entire hiring process you will work with your recruiter, who will be available by email and phone to field any questions or concerns you might have. Because applying for a new job during a global pandemic is extremely challenging, our team made sure to stick to our default process, but to hold the interviews virtually.
Virtual interview prep tips:
1. Take extra time to set up your physical interview space
Find the most comfortable position and eliminate any unnecessary objects that would distract your attention. The more adjusted the surrounding is – the more confident you will feel in the process. Also, make sure you have good lighting for your webcam. Given the global shift to work from home and other areas of personal life being impacted, you may have unique circumstances (kids, pets, family members, etc.) in your work area. Rest assured our interview teams are understanding these situations.
2. Test your technology beforehand
We use Zoom for the virtual interviews and CodePair for code sharing. Download Zoom to your desktop and test it to ensure it works correctly on your device. It may be useful to practice with Code.Pair in advance of your interview.Test your internet connection to ensure it’s strong and working. Confirm that your webcam works properly. If you don’t have a headset, be prepared to mute your microphone when you aren’t talking. If you are using a laptop, cellphone, or tablet, fully charge your device prior to the interview
3. Interview Attire
We encourage everyone at VMware to bring their authentic selves to work and that applies to our candidates as well. There is no official dress code, so smart-casual outfit is always appropriate.
4. Practice: Do a mockup interview with a friend
Just like public speaking, practicing interviews is the best way to relieve anxiety and improve your confidence. Spend some time practicing your speaking voice and language with a trusted friend or family member. That will make you more comfortable and help you give the right impression.
Take a look at our open roles and apply today:
About the Author: Reny Mineva is Director Talent Acquisition at VMware with over 13 years experience within the company.
